Author: xylence

Chapter One

8:03 PM

Jessica tapped her watch impatiently. It was true that only a few minutes had passed and she wasn't really looking forward to this date anyways but couldn't she find someone who would be on time for once? Jessica let out a sigh and leaned back on her vehicle. A few onlookers sneaked a peek at the sleek motorcycle while others admired the young woman, twisting their necks to take one last glance at her. They ended up disappointed when they realized a bouquet of roses was strapped to the bike.

Jessica tried to ignore all the stares that she was receiving and fidgeted with her watch some more. This was one of the reasons why she disliked going out on dates, especially the ones Yuri planned for her. Jessica?s attention turned to the news lady on one of the nine televisions across from her.

"Two citizens have been taken hostage by armed men at Jasper Club on Le- "

That was all Jessica needed to hear to escape the date. The blonde put her helmet on and sped off.

Hara wouldn't mind...

~~~~~~~

Gyuri's team surrounded the remaining two men of the original seven. They had five members at gunpoint but in no way were they at an advantage. With a girl trapped in the rogue's grasp and a child in the others, it was impossible to make a move.

The two criminals were losing hope. The taller of the two, and clearly the boss, did not like the idea of getting surrounded.

"Let us all go or we'll shoot the boy," he tried his threat for the umph time. No movement. His fist tightened on his weapon and let out a frustrated grunt. It?s time to prove his threat true. He grabbed the boy by his shirt and lifted him up in plain view, gun barrel to his head. The boy cried and squirmed.

Everyone on the team looked at Gyuri for orders but none came. From behind her team leader, Tiffany couldn't take it anymore.

"Wait!" Tiffany carefully strode forward, hands up in the air with a calmness that completely contrasted her true feelings.

"Don't come any closer!" he screamed directing his gun at her.

"Let's make a deal," she said as she slowly made her way in front. A hand grabbed her arm, pulling her back to face the angry expression of her team leader.

"What in the world do you think you're doing?" Gyuri hissed and her grip tightened on the wrist. Tiffany just shook her head and looked at her, determined.

"I know what I'm doing. Just trust me."

It wasn't the first time the younger girl said that to her. In fact, if Gyuri remembered correctly, it would be the seventh time and what came after the first six were just scrambled memories that she wished she had forgotten for the sake of her sanity. Just a blur of car crashes, her short boss yelling at her and a truckload of paperwork...nothing more than that.

Tiffany was indeed capable but undeniably hasty. Gyuri closed her eyes, let out a deep breath and loosened her grip. Seventh time the charm. Gyuri looked straight into her eyes.

"Don't screw this up. Lives are at stake."

The American nodded and continued her stride towards the man.

"Let's make a deal," she repeated, "You want you and your gang to get out of here unharmed and I want the same with the two civilians you are holding hostage. How about a one on one fight between you and me? All fist, no weapons, no interference and whoever wins gets what they want."

The man took the offer to consideration. He and his gang were on the losing end and yet the stupid girl had offered a chance to turn the tables. The cop looked no stronger than a typical high school girl and even if he underestimated her, he still had a backup plan.

"You better keep your word," he growled.

"You too."

They both dropped their guns to the ground and changed to a fighting pose. The girl gave a confident smirk.

You won't be smiling for long. Time to make a little girl cry.

The gigantic man lunged at her, pulling his fist back and letting it collide with that smug face of hers. Instead, he hit thin air as the girl dodged quickly and punched him straight in the stomach. He groaned but recovered quickly.

"You are going to pay for that!"

Unfazed, Tiffany blocked all his incoming hits with ease and returned every blow with deadly accuracy and strength. The man staggered back a few steps clutching his broken nose, bloodied up by a ferocious kick that he did not see coming at all.

This girl is crazy!

With a grin, Tiffany pretended to dust off her shoulder, aggravating the man even more.

So much for the big tough guy look. Let's finish this.

She started at him but came to a halt. The man in front of her pulled out a small glass container from his pocket and uncorked it. Inside was a colorless liquid. The man didn't even think twice and drained it. They promised him unmatched powers. Smacking his lips, he dropped the container. The world distorted in front of him and his mind lost all control but still he was able to sense his prey. A maniac like smile formed on his face and charged.

What the?!?

Tiffany was hit squarely in the stomach, propelling her backwards but was dragged by the arm and the man threw her mercilessly to the ground. Tiffany whimpered in pain. She didn't even have a second to breathe before the man threw his fist at her. She rolled away just in time to avoid the hit and picked herself up. Her eyes widened at the crater on the ground. Cement was not meant to be destroyed like that.

What was in the bottle?

His speed and strength increased so much that Tiffany could barely keep up with him. Nevertheless, she managed to land a few punches at him but was sorely disappointed to realize that her fist hurt more than her target. A few more minutes and Tiffany was on the ground once again, panting. Bruises covered all over her body. Her arms trembled as she struggled to lift herself up. She couldn't lose like this. Even if it killed her, she would have to win. Clearly, the man could care less as to what she wanted. He swung his foot back for the finishing strike. Tiffany shut her eyes.

For what felt like an eternity, the weakened girl opened her eyes slowly. A figure knelt in front of her, blocking the death worthy kick with the back of her arm. Blond hair flowed pass her savior's shoulders and even at this absurd moment, her confused mind screamed wow.

Jessica's arm instinctively wrapped around his leg, the other grasped firmly on his heel and pushed. He lost balance at the sudden lift. Falling back a few steps, he surveyed the newcomer. Small, just like his previous combater and similarly so, much to his annoyance, she started brushing the dirt of her shoulder as well.

"Aish! Yoona bought me this jacket," she muttered. Taunting was not in Jessica's nature but the unintentional gesture ticked off the giant nonetheless. The man started his assault once again but this competitor was ready.

Tiffany gasped as she watched the scene before her. It wasn't exactly Matrix but it was shockingly close. While she got beaten up to pulp by the never ending punches and kicks, she saw that the girl blocked, dodged and returned every single attack the other could offer and this time, they actually hurt. Incredible was an understatement.

She was not injured and was definitely not afraid but Jessica still wondered as to how this guy even managed to uphold this battle for more than a few minutes. His fighting skills were flimsy but what dragged on the battle was his zombie-like body which refused to break. His unfocused eyes also told her that his mind was not controlling his body but something else. Whatever it was, Jessica didn't have the time to fathom any longer. She slipped under his blind attempt to catch her, caught his wrist, twisted his arm around and struck him hard on his back. The man finally fell down, incapable of any more damage.

On the side, the fallen man's sidekick jumped when the blond turned to face him. He pushed the girl hostage straight at her and fled in the alleys behind the club. The teenager gave a squeal before being caught by the fighter's arms. Jessica quickly balanced the girl and ran after the remaining target. Of all the things Jessica hated, going on blind dates, her neighbor's insensitive dog, speed limits and occasionally Yuri, nothing could compare to the hatred of a criminal who ran free.

~~~~~~~

The taller girl took dominance as she pushed the other towards the wall, taking away the exhilarated girl?s clothes. The girl pinned on the wall gasped for air as she allowed the other's lips to travel freely downwards. Kwon Yuri was a hard girl to reject. The girl, and could only be referred to as 'the girl' for Yuri had neither asked nor cared for her name, deemed herself lucky to be able to receive a single night's attention of the oh-so-popular successor of Kwon Enterprises. The girl's pleasure was cut short though when a scared looking man crashed into them causing them to break apart.

Yuri wasn't all that pleased either. She picked up the man from the ground and punched him in the face without much consideration as to who he was. The man sank back to the ground unconscious. A few seconds later, a running girl turned into the alley and found the most ridiculous scene she had ever seen.

Jessica stared wide eyed at the struck man lying lifeless on the ground, a half-clothed girl in her 20s trying her best to cover herself without much success, and a rather unfazed person who she would have loved to pretend did not exist, her team member Yuri.

"Jessica! What a pleasant surprise!"

Yuri could tell she was pushing it. She noticed the shorter girl's fingers curl into a fist and before anything else happened, Yuri decided to just end it quick.

"Anyways, I see that you were chasing him and well, I just knocked him out so he's all yours now."

Yuri smiled brightly. Yuri's tone made it seem as if they were two friends that haven't talked to each other for ages and were catching up on recent activities. Jessica could have said a bazillion words, some cursing, some not at her but decided against it. She still had work to do. The blond gave an icy glare at her partner and immediately Yuri got the message and hoisted the man up, dragging him across the ground. Jessica always managed to get Yuri to do all the dirty work for her. Yuri followed Jessica wordlessly and all that was left in the alley was the embarrassed girl, searching desperately for her scattered clothes.

~~~~~~~~

Gyuri threw a jacket over the injured girl and although it was a kind gesture, her frown did not agree with it. Tiffany understood exactly what that frown meant.

Meet me in the office after this is over.

Tiffany shivered from the cold. She watched as the seven gang members were forced one by one into the police van. Tiffany scanned around and found what she was looking for. Her savior was talking to Gyuri. The conversation ended as they shook hands and she turned to leave. Tiffany quickly siphoned through the crowd and ran towards the blond.

"Hey, wait!"

The girl turned and faced Tiffany.

"My name is Tiffany. Thank you for saving me tonight."

"You don't need to thank me. I was just doing my job."

An awkward silence drew upon them.

"May I ask what your name is?" Tiffany asked quietly.

Jessica returned a small smile.

"My name is Jessica."

And with that, Jessica turned back to her motorcycle and noticed the bouquet of roses still fastened securely on her bike. She lifted the strap and pulled out the bouquet. Jessica stared at it for awhile before turning back to the surprised Tiffany.

"Here. It was a tough battle. You were a bit reckless for striking that deal but you fought admirably tonight."

Tiffany could hardly hold in her surprise as Jessica handed her the roses. With a mixture of shock and delight, Tiffany watched Jessica as she drove away.

Chapter Two

The frustrated leader slammed the thick folder down, causing all her stuff on her desk to tremble. It was not her stuff that Gyuri wanted to scare but rather the thick-skulled girl across from her who just didn?t seem to understand what she was getting across.

"How many times do I have to tell you not to act rashly in situations like these?"

An unintelligible sound came from Tiffany as she found a whole new interest in her sneakers.

"Look at this. No, actually open the file. This is your record Tiffany Hwang. Understand that your record is only so huge not because of your astounding achievements but rather all the blunders you made since you ever became a police. Even with this record, I've chosen to trust you. Why? Because I believe that you are strong and capable. However, those two points doesn?t seem good enough to make up for the lack of brain usage you exert in crucial times like these."

If a mouse felt small, it was nothing compared to how Tiffany felt right now. She tried her last attempt to redeem herself.

"If we didn't do anything, the kid would've been killed," she said quietly.

Gyuri rolled her eyes and scoffed.

"Yes Tiffany. I know how important the lives of innocent people are but don?t you realize what could've happened if he defeated you? We would have to keep your promise and let everyone go! If we didn?t do what he wanted, out of anger he would?ve obliterated not only the boy?s brain but also endanger everyone who was there! Tiffany Hwang, do you understand me?"

Gyuri let out a deep breath, trying to calm herself down. The usually optimistic Tiffany was replaced by a pitiful creature who wanted nothing but to evaporate from the spot. Now that it was flung right at her, Tiffany wondered how it never crossed her mind before.

"I'm sorry."

Gyuri?s eyes softened.

"Look, I know you?re trying your best and your intentions were good. I admire how you are so willing to put yourself in front of danger to protect others, I really do. As a friend, I'm glad I've met you but as the team leader, I really don't know what to do anymore."

Gyuri picked up a letter and handed it to Tiffany.

"Bring this to the boss. Take care."

Tiffany took the letter and quietly exited Gyuri's office. She bade a long goodbye to all her team members and said goodbye to the fifteenth floor. Team KARA's floor. No longer belonging there, she sighed. Surely, the boss was tired of seeing her as well. The elevator ride could not feel any more familiar. However, this would probably be the last time taking it.

~~~~~~

A knock sounded from her door.

"Come in."

Kim Taeyeon and Tiffany locked eyes once again and Taeyeon opened the letter handed to her by Tiffany and read with care.

"Alright. Take a seat."

The girl seated herself across from the short girl?s desk and Taeyeon began.

"Pany Pany Tippannyyyyy! What am I going to do with you? You've been in almost every single team! Panyyyyyy!" T.T

"Awww, Taetae. I'm sorry."

Childhood friends since elementary school, the pair would always call each other by their nicknames when something like this happened. Taeyeon was famous for her countless awards for being a great leader, her ability as an outstanding cop, facing danger one could not even imagine and for being the impartial and proud Head of four elite teams. There were only three people in the entire world who could get her down on her knees and that would be her mom, her dad and Tiffany.

After all these years, Taeyeon thought that she was immune to that apologetic puppy look but still, no matter how hard she tried, she would never be able to win against it.

"Okay, let's just cut the usual long speech short, shall we? Tiffany, in here Gyuri did not ask me to fire you."

Judging by the surprised look on Tiffany's face, she didn?t expect this at all.

"She's giving you a chance, just like how I want to give you another chance as well. Instead of firing you, I'm going to transfer you. I'm going to transfer you to a team that will be able to teach you great things, turning you into the great cop I know you are capable of. I'm sending you to the WYE team."

The what?

"Ummm?I think I misheard you, did you just say the 'Y' team?"

"Yes. A recent member left to go to the United States and a replacement is needed plus I feel that a change in environment wouldn't be bad for you at all."

I have never even heard of this team before. How in the world would I not know them after working here for three years?

Tiffany took a glance at Taeyeon's calendar, double checking that it was not April?s Fool day. The resolute expression on Taeyeon's face told her that this was no joke.

Suddenly, another knock came from the door and a tall, beautiful girl peeked into the room.

"Yuri! This is your new team member. Her name is Tiffany. Would you please take her down to your team and introduce her to your other team members and leader?"

"Hmm. Sure thing."

Yuri was delighted at the prospect of leading another gorgeous woman into the team. It was a complete shame that SunYe had to leave but hey, the newcomer looked absolutely hot. Yuri studied the girl from head to toe and smiled.

"Hi, I'm Kwon Yuri. Come. I?ll show you your new floor." She gestured Tiffany to follow and they both entered the elevator. The ride down was a short one. Surprisingly, the button only a few levels lower than the highest S floor was labeled Y.

"How come I've never noticed this level before?" Tiffany thought out loud. Yuri chuckled and gave Tiffany a pat on the shoulder.

"Don't worry about it. A lot of people for some reason miss this. Anyone who ever came to our floor could hardly recognize the fact that it?s actually police headquarters."

With a little ding, the elevator stopped and opened to reveal the WYE team's headquarters. It was unbelievable. In comparison to the desk-filled and gloomy floor that she once worked at, this one literally shone.

The blinds were pulled to the side and the view of the outside world was fascinating. With this height, every inch of the streets below was in plain view. Satisfied with Tiffany's 'omg' expression, Yuri took the astounded girl by the hand and led her in.

The automatic glass door slid apart to welcome the two. A vast part of the area resembled a rich, yet stylish, person?s living room, with white leather couches and a large plasma television hung on the wall. The design matched perfectly with the sparkling clean white tiles and on it was a well placed red rug. To add to the perfection, Tiffany noticed a small canteen with a large refrigerator located not far from the haven.

With much difficulty, Tiffany pulled her eyes away and surveyed the rest of the room. Now this was more like the office she was accustomed to minus the old fashion desks and ugly chairs. It wasn?t exactly office material but at least they were proper desks.

"Like it?"

No words came out. Tiffany loved it. Although it was missing a bit of the pink she absolutely adored, it was amazing.

"I'll take that open gap on your face as a yes," Yuri laughed. Tiffany immediately closed her mouth shut. She didn?t even feel it drop. Clearing her throat, she tried to redeem her dignity.

"So what does the letter Y stand for anyways?"

"Letter Y? Oh! You mean out team name? It's actually W, Y, and E. Weird Yet Elite. Isn't that such a downgrading name? We didn?t make that up. Originally, it was something classier but the ahjumma janitor wanted to be creative and failed. We hardly even remember the original anymore. As much as it sounds like a children television show, we can't really get rid of it because its meaning has too much truth in it to back out."

Tiffany was confused. Sure, the luxurious living room cannot be called normal but nothing completely weird has popped up yet. As if reading her mind, Yuri spoke.

"Confused? After you meet our members, you'll find out where the weird comes from," she finished with a wink.

"This is Seohyun, our maknae. How about you introduce yourself?"

The young girl looked up upon hearing her name and smiled. Tiffany immediately noticed the innocent aura around her.

"Hello , my name is Seohyun. I am the resident hacker and computer geek of the group." Tiffany then noticed the numerous monitors and the mass of technology behind her that Tiffany could barely make out.

Noticing Tiffany staring, Seohyun started to explain in the simplest terms possible.

"This is the fastest and most efficient computer that we have in the building and possibly country. It has access to all databases, has the ability to crack every single code available and can download 20 episodes or more of Keroro in less than a second."

?

"That's amazing Seohyun. I'm going to go introduce the others to her." Yuri replied. She gave a small tug, indicating Tiffany to follow.

"I told you so," she whispered into the stunned girl?s ear. Yuri decided that any more personal introductions may be too much for Tiffany to handle. She resorted to pointing and introducing them herself.

"Over there is Hyoyeon, or Kim Choding. She has a tendency to act like a child and sings 'Wetoriya' with interesting lyrics. She's also amazing on the dance floor."

She then pointed to the next member who was listening to his MP3.

"That's Onew, our only guy member. His only use really, apart from entertaining us during karaoke, is entering the boy's bathroom if our target happened to be a guy and needs to use the loo."

"See that tall girl demolishing our canteen and raiding the fridge?"

"I HEARD THAT!"

"That's Choi Sooyoung. Not much to describe about her except she won countless eating contests, one that helped us win all those boxes of noodles over there. She took most of it back into her stomach so the gain wasn't great."

"I HEARD THAT TOO!"

"It's not like I'm trying to whisper. She also has a loud voice enabling us to throw away our megaphone."

"KWON YURI, SAY THAT TO MY FACE!" The tall girl stomped her way across the room still holding her freshly made sandwich and waved it furiously to show her displeasure.

"I would love to if it was Choi Sooyoung I was speaking to instead of this sandwich," Yuri replied gracefully and took a bite. Sooyoung stared at her now bitten sandwich and gave a whimper.

"It was perfect," she said quietly.

"No, the tomatoes were a bit too thick. Lay off the mayonnaise too while you're at it."

"Now the remaining leader that completes our weirdness," Yuri said proudly.

Tiffany looked in the direction she was pointing at and her heart skipped a beat. In the corner was her rescuer leaning on the window sleeping with a frog-patterned blanket over her. She assumed belonged to the maknae.

"That's our leader. Her name is-"

"JESSICA JUNG!"

A shrill voice spread through the room and everyone stopped what they were doing. The door slid open once again and entered a doll-like girl with (hopefully Tiffany was imagining this) steam coming out from her ears.

The blond woke up startled and blankly looked around to find the source of the voice but she did not need to look far. Her eyes slowly started to focus on the girl standing in front of her. Goo Hara had come to haunt her.

"WHERE WERE YOU YESTERDAY? I know I was a few minutes late but that?s not an excuse to completely ditch me! The only reason why I was late that day was because I was trying on a new dress for YOU! Let's not even get me started on the other days you missed our dates."

"Ain't that generous...a new dress," Yuri said under her breath.

Jessica nodded drowsily agreeing to that idea but too late, she started.

"Remember all those excuses you used to avoid me? You had work this day and more work on the other? If it wasn't work then it would be something like your motorcycle needs repairing or that Yoona girl. I knew these were all excuses and I still let you off but I can't take it anymore!"

Jessica stood like a log as Hara continued her rant. Everyone else returned to their own activities as if this was a regular occurrence. Yuri slapped her hand on her face as if she was embarrassed by Jessica?s girlfriend while Tiffany just stared.

"UGH! You are so insensitive, stupid and dimwitted. I don't know what I see in you. Let?s just break up!"

Her last words had reached a whole different octave and complete silence followed. It was quiet to the point that the maknae could have sworn that she heard Taeyeon's unique laugh from four floors above. Finally Jessica spoke.

"Okay."

Tiffany's mouth dropped open again. So did Hara's.

"Wha-What? I-I-I really mean it. I?m not joking," she stuttered.

"I know. I agree with you."

"I-you-argh!" The infuriated girl swished her long hair over her shoulders and stalked off. Furious, she turned back one last time.

"You really mean it? You really want me to go?"

Jessica just blinked. Realizing that Jessica wasn't going to call her back, she passed through the sliding doors and into the elevator.

Finally dropping her hand back to her side, Yuri let a sigh.

"So, my dear Tiffany. That is our leader, Jessica Jung. She is an amazingly gorgeous girl that I've tried so hard to train but remains a complete failure in relationships. I have been trying for years giving her tips and all that but she really is that thick-skulled. Even I, the great Yuri, cannot change her."

Tiffany was hardly listening. She watched the expressionless Jessica walk to the canteen, taking a sip of water out of her cup. She was startled when Yuri snapped her fingers loudly.

"I'm glad that I have your attention again. Anyways, I guess now you understand where the Weird part of our name comes from. As for the Elite part..." Yuri paused for dramatic effect. She leaned closer and closer in towards Tiffany as if telling a secret. Tiffany could feel her face flush red as she came closer. The flushed girl felt her ears twitch when she felt Yuri's hot breath next to it.

"...is me."

Yuri let out a soft chuckle as she felt the shorter girl's nervousness. The tip of her nose gently grazed the girl's cheek. She looked down at those luscious lips. Perhaps she would take the initiative to know the new girl a bit better than the others. All of a sudden, Yuri felt a forceful tug on her shirt and was flung backwards, lost her balance and fell to the floor.

"Stop harassing her in the office. Go do your business somewhere else," Jessica said sternly. She turned to face Tiffany, or rather the red mushroom that replaced her. Jessica spoke with a soft voice.

"Umm...just ignore her. Whatever she says, don't take it seriously. She's the successor of the big Kwon Enterprises but instead of becoming a business woman with that big mouth of hers, she decided to be a police just to annoy us."

Yuri picked herself up from the ground and smiled good-naturedly.

"Hey, if it weren't for me, who do you think will redecorate the office into the awesome place it is now? Plus what's the fun in doing business when I can be here with you? You know how much I love you."

Her fake puppy face expression tricked no one. Jessica palmed Yuri's annoying face with full force and caught Yuri in a head lock, pushing her head down facing the floor.

"Yah! Let go! My Sones will not let you go unharmed you know!" The grip around her neck just tightened. Tiffany laughed at their antics. They were just like little kids.

"Jessica?"

A new voice entered the room. Tiffany stared blank faced. She had straight brown hair that just reached her shoulders and she was wearing a lab coat that indicated her professionalism. Im Yoona was looking for Jessica. The blonde looked up and immediately let go. Completely unprepared for the sudden release, Yuri fell face first on the ground. Not caring, Jessica smoothed her clothes and approached her.

"I know you're interested about what was in the bottle. I'm not really supposed to tell you so if umm..." Yoona casted a quick glance at the growing audience behind Jessica. Jessica understood and cleared her throat.

"You guys, continue your work. Yuri, go show Tiffany her seat and teach her whatever she needs to know. I'll be right back."

Yoona gave her a grateful smile and together they exited the room. Tiffany watched Jessica walk away with a slight frown on her face.

I wonder what their relationship is?

Yuri on the other hand clicked her tongue, thinking hard.

"Yoona can also be considered as part of the WYE team since she's always working alongside us. Now if only I can figure out the weird part about her?" Her tongue clicked some more. A sudden snap told the crowd that she found her answer.

"I got it!" she said in her amajing Engrish. "She's the weirdo that had a bit of a crush on Jessica since forever. And of course that literally defines weird since she witnessed all of Jessica?s failures." The other members murmured in agreement and returned to the seat.

Tiffany pondered about what Yuri had said. If having a small crush on the leader defined the word 'weird' then she, Tiffany Hwang, was more than qualified to join the WYE team.

Chapter Three

The ride ended when they reached the lower levels of the building. They stepped out and entered the dark and cold lab that was occupied by a single person.

"Hello Sunny unnie."

"Hi guys," she answered without looking at them. Sunny was the head of the forensic department and although her job did not require her to do much of the actual examinations, an important case like this one had perked her interest and required her skills. Sunny continued experimenting with the two liquids. With a few drops of each, the result of the two changed the once colourless liquid into a bright green colour. Sunny nodded in comprehension.

"You guessed right Yoona. This is the drug that caused chaos six years ago. Need to go report this to Taeyeon. See you." And with that she left the two alone.

Yoona frowned. She picked up the small glass container. It was scratched up by the fall but she could see that something was carved onto the glass. The remains of the liquid were taken in for testing and the results turned out positive. She turned to face Jessica.

"This is the bottle we found in the scene of crime and it is definitely the one the criminal drank before his sudden change. I wonder if you still remember the name of this drug."

Yoona passed the file to Jessica and she opened it. Its name was printed clearly on the top of the report.

IoSeph

Jessica remembered alright. It was the legendary case that her seniors were working on for years. She thought that it would be over.

"This drug as you might remember has numerous names but the two originals are IoSeph and JJ in which both represent the creator's name, Joseph Jung."

Yoona noticed how Jessica's frown increased. Jessica tried to even her breathing as she thought of what happened years earlier.

Joseph Jung, the creator of this drug was caught by the police and was currently serving his remaining lifetime in jail. Jessica remembered clearly how the police handcuffed her father's wrists. She had told herself that he deserved to be in jail for the damage he caused. Not only did he fail to be a good citizen but he also failed as a father.

Recovering from her past memories, she continued reading the file. Yoona carried on.

"This drug is said to be able to give the drinker 'unmatched' powers, something beyond what a normal human could do. 'A step closer to Heaven' is what they say but in reality it is all meaningless. It does however sharpens a person?s senses, increases strength and stamina, making reaction time a lot quicker and can probably endure much more as well."

Jessica nodded. The bulldozer she fought the day before was just as Yoona described. She also remembered his deadened look and unfocused eyes.

"How much control do they have over the drug?"

Yoona tapped her pen on her chin before replying.

"To be honest, I believe the goal was to have full control while still getting all the so called 'benefits' the drug offers. However, judging by what you told me about your fight, the man had no control whatsoever. The drug is not like its original and even then it is not completely perfect. This sample from yesterday had similar properties but watered down by a lot. Clearly, the supplier is looking for quick money and has a limited amount of the original. Don't get comfortable however. It is highly possible that they are trying hard to perfect it and when that occurs..."

Even without Yoona saying it out loud, Jessica already knew. If the drug that the brute of a man was considered watered down, then what was Jessica suppose to do with what was to come? The prospect of countless druggies turning into elite fighters was not encouraging. Her fingers flipped through the pages automatically and stopped on a list filled with names.

"What is this?" The column next to the names described the time, location and date of death and surprisingly, these dates weren?t too long ago. If so many people died lately, how was it possible that Jessica did not get informed?

"Why didn't I get informed about all these?" she murmured.

"I...we...just never brought it up."

"Taeyeon thinks that I can't be trusted with this, doesn?t she? That I would purposely screw it up and switch sides half way? Did you think so too?" she asked bitterly.

"No! That's not it!" Yoona instinctively grabbed Jessica's arm. "You shouldn?t think like that about Taeyeon. She's just trying to protect you. I really did want to tell you but I can't ignore her orders either."

"It's alright Yoona." Jessica said and the rambling stopped.

"I know it's not your fault so don't fret. I think my hand is lacking blood now." Yoona looked down and realized her hands were literally suffocating Jessica's arm. The flustered girl immediately let go.

"I'm sorry." Yoona backed up a few steps, knocking a flask over. In a flash, Jessica caught it before it hit the ground. Must she always fail so badly in front of her?

Returning the flask back to the desk, Jessica turned back to Yoona.

''Don't worry about it. As for the case, I'll speak to Taeyeon personally, won't mention names of course."

Yoona could sense that Jessica wasn't overly fond of being left out but she still kept her cool. Yoona's admiration for her grew into something more after she met the blonde during her university years. Memories returned she thought of how lucky she was to have met Jessica.

Jessica watched confused as a smile formed on Yoona's face. She flicked the taller girl's forehead and received a satisfactory "ow!" which finally drew Yoona out of her daydream.

"I'm going to go now. I need to do some more stuff before getting off work. Bye." With that Jessica turned away from Yoona and headed out the door. Realizing she forgot to do something, Yoona ran out the door after Jessica.

"Hey! My mom wanted me to ask you if you?re free tonight for dinner!" Yoona yelled across the hall.

Jessica did a spin on her heel. Her fingers rounded into an Okay sign, waved goodbye and took the elevator up. Destination? The top floor.

~~~~~~~

"Are you getting any leads on the case?" Taeyeon asked Gyuri.

"I'm sorry Director Kim. There hasn't been anything new since the last report. The drug is unsteady. It kills the drinker within three days, a new record I might add, but still, the locations of the drinkers are all over the place. No correlation whatsoever."

She nodded. The KARA team had always worked well but she was afraid that this time, the pace was too slow. A slight bias made her wish that she still had WYE team to her disposable but Taeyeon did not want the case to affect Jessica.

~Sweet Taeng, Sweet Taeng, Sweet Taeng ~

At the sound of her office phone, she picked it up.

"Hello?"

"Director Kim? Jessica Jung wanted a meeting with you. I told her that she?ll have to wait but she's already heading to your office. Just a heads up."

"Yeah alright. Thanks Sunmi," and before she could even put her phone down, the impatient officer had already reached her office.

"Hi Sica!" Taeyeon greeted in her bright voice. It was returned with a cold glare.

"Don't Shica me if you are going to keep me in the dark."

"Ahh...well, IoSeph is not something we want to spread around." Wrong answer. Jessica marched up to her desk and placed her hands firmly on it, leaning in to speak to the sitting Taeyeon at eye level.

Gyuri's hand grabbed her on the shoulder, trying to pull her back but Jessica did not budge.

"Don't be so disrespectful to the Director."

Jessica turned to look at Gyuri, her expression annoyed. The blonde removed Gyuri's fingers one by one.

"Stay out of this."

She rotated back to face Taeyeon.

"I want this case."

"Jessica, the case is given to the KARA team and they are handling it right now. As for why I'm keeping you in the dark, I have my reasons. You need to calm down."

"That's complete bull. Kim Taeyeon, I have never doubted your decisions before but now I do. I'm disappointed to find out that you do not believe in my ability to handle this case. You know me better than this and you've seen what I?m capable of. Don't give me the whole 'this is for your own good' crap because you know very well that I'm not going to accept that. Give me a better reason to deny me of that case than my cursed relation with Joseph Jung!"

Jessica was practically yelling now. Gyuri had enough. This time, she pulled on Jessica's arm and pushed her back hard.

"Officer Jung! Consider your position! You are no more qualified to demand for something like this from the Director than anyone else in this building. The case is already given to my team."

Jessica scoffed.

"Look. I do not want to discuss about your capability in handling your cases for you have my respect on that but understand that you are downgrading me right now. Might I remind you that I was also present last night because it was I who fought the beast and given you the glory of announcing the capture of seven criminals?"

That struck a nerve, probably more. Gyuri struggled to keep her calmness.

"Nonetheless Officer, disrespecting the Director and throwing a tantrum is not the way to get what you want. You will stop right now."

"Only when she gives me a better explanation than 'I have my reasons'."

The tension between the two team leaders was deafening. They both looked ready to pummel the other if this continued on. As Director, it was her responsibility to stop this and finally she spoke.

"You're right. I don't."

"Director Kim-" Gyuri began but stopped when Taeyeon looked at her.

"Thank you Gyuri for defending me." Taeyeon lifted herself off her seat and spoke directly to Jessica.

"You are right. I don't have a good enough reason to stop you from handling this case. I admit that your relation with Joseph Jung did hinder me from assigning you this case. I have never doubted nor questioned your ability. The main reason why I did not want you to take this case was because I believed that it may cause unnecessary emotions to arise. I am not afraid that these emotions will affect the investigation but rather how it may hurt you."

Jessica wasn't expecting such a detailed explanation, much less its content. Jessica's anger deflated. Perhaps the rationale of 'it is for your own good' was the best reason.

"I'm sorry. I did not understand your intentions fully before coming up here."

"Aww, it's okay Sica," Taeyeon reverted back to her cheerful self, "It was partly my fault for not telling you anything and I understand how misleading my actions can look from the outside."

Jessica looked solemnly at the Director. No matter what she said earlier, Kim Taeyeon was still the most respected figure she ever had the fortune to meet. She was truly the best leader out there.

"I still want to take part in the case though. I understand that you want to protect me but I am also determined to put my efforts into this case. My association with IoSeph will act as my motivation and not as a hindrance."

Taeyeon nodded understandingly.

"I understand. Both teams, KARA and WYE, will take part in this case. IoSeph is deadly and can cause a lot of damage. Please put your full efforts into it."

Waving the two off, the two team leaders understood that it was time for their leave. They exited silently out of her office and into the elevator.

"I am looking forward to working with the Gyuri who deems herself as Goddess in both appearance and authority."

Jessica extended her hand with a small smile. Gyuri smirked.

"Very nice start, Officer Jung. Very nice," she commented and locked hands with the other.

Chapter Four

~Four Years Ago~

"A fire has arisen at ShinHwa Elementary School and firefighters are rushing to there as I speak. This is Johnson reporting live."

The bowl clattered loudly as it fell onto the floor. No, this could not be possible. Yoona and her friend were eating when the television in the restaurant announced the news. Yoona sprinted out of the shop and onto the streets. The school where her mother was teaching at was on fire.

"Yoona, where are you going?" her friend called after her. She continued running. Yoona's speed was slowly decreasing. It would be impossible to get there in time by foot. Winded, Yoona ran onto the road and cars screeched to avoid her. Loud honking noises filled the air but none of them stopped for her.

"Please! I need a ride! Please take me to my mother. She's trapped in a fire. PLEASE!" she screamed as she banged on the window of the passing cars. They all ignored the crying girl and sped off.

"Please, I beg of you. I need a ride. My mom is in danger. Please take me there!" No one heeded to her pleas. She sank to her knees and buried her face in her hands. How would she live knowing that she didn't get to her mom in time?

"Get up!"

A pair of strong hands grabbed Yoona's arms and lifted her up. Through her teary vision, she could make out that the hands belonged to a girl not much older than herself. She wiped her tears away to get a clearer look. The stranger had a small physique, long brown hair that reached her waist and was wearing a black helmet.

"Take this and get on. I'll take you there." The girl said as she shoved a silver helmet into Yoona's hands. Snapping out of her daze, Yoona put the helmet on and climbed onto the back of the motorcycle.

"Hold on."

Yoona couldn't suppress a scream as she clung tightly onto the driver's waist. The vehicle filtered skillfully through the traffic and into alleyways for shortcuts.

The area was blocked off by numerous police cars and fire trucks. The motorcycle made a sharp turn and screeched to a stop. Yoona took off immediately and ran straight for the school. The sight was terrifying. Smoke covered the entire sky and the flames were burning without a hint of dying out. There were screams everywhere as more people were taken out of the burning building. Families and friends were reuniting but where was her mother? Yoona ran into the crowd, searching desperately. She recognized no one.

"Yoona!"

The worried girl spun around. Her mother was well and smiling, a bit dirty from the dust and ashes but she was alive.

"Mom!"

They held on to each other weeping, afraid that if they let go it would be their last. They finally released each other, and her mother wiped the tears carefully off her precious daughter's face.

"It's going to be alright. We're alright now," she soothed.

The reunion was cut short when an explosion sounded from behind and more screams erupted.

A woman of her thirties shrieked and tugged on the fireman's clothes, begging.

"Please, my son is still in there. Please go in there and save him. He's my one and only son. He's only eight!"

"I'm sorry. We can't go back in there. It?s too dangerous."

The woman bawled, falling to the ground with a thud. Yoona and her mother rushed over to help but another person beat them to her. The person lifted the howling woman to a sitting position and called for the paramedics. Four men rushed to the scene and took the lady from her hands.

"Where is the boy located?" Jessica asked, grabbing the fireman's coat.

"It's highly likely that he's on the second floor but-"

Jessica pushed herself through to the front. Knocking another fireman aside, she grabbed the hose that he was holding and soaked herself. Tearing off the arm of her shirt, she tied it around her face.

Jessica darted into the building. Flames encircled her, threatening to take her life. Breathing was getting more and more difficult as she wrestled through the flames and smoke. The staircase was blocked by so many obstacles that it was not possible get up.

There had to be another way...

Jessica looked wildly, spinning on the spot. Even in this disastrous setting, her vision did not fail her and quickly spotted the only spot free of fire and the only way up.

This is the only way. It?s now or never. And it's going to be NOW!

Jessica backed up a few steps before hurtling herself forward. She sprinted towards the wall and used it to propel herself up, only just managing to grab on to the metal railing. She tightened her grip and swung herself, finally rolling herself over the railing.

Need longer legs...

Jessica kicked the doors open one by one with all her strength. She looked everywhere and her time was running out. The flames were getting stronger. Where was the boy? Suddenly, she heard a cry and followed the sound. In the corner of the room, she spotted a trembling child hiding underneath the teacher's desk.

The girl tore off another piece of her shirt and wrapped it around the boy's face, telling him to cover his mouth and nose with it before lifting him up into her arms. Even then, all she could think of was promising herself to tell his mother to lay off the chips for a long while.

She hoisted the boy up a bit more and ran out only to find her exit blocked by more flames. There was no way down anymore. She surveyed the hall, weighing her choices. There weren't many. It was thoughtless, but it was either this or hell.

Jessica's hand covered the boy's head and tried to shield him the best way possible. Running in full speed, she flung herself at the window, breaking the glass and launched herself into the air. Gravity pulled her down mercilessly and she felt herself losing height. Her right foot touched the ground first then the other knee. The pain stung but she made it.

Yoona stared wide eyed at the miracle. The young woman that helped her earlier landed perfectly from a two story jump. It was incredible.

Hiding her pain the best she could, Jessica let go of the boy and fell to the ground, breathless. Luckily the boy was unharmed judging by how he completely ditched her as he ran away to his mom.

Finally catching her breath, Jessica picked herself up and staggered to the grateful mother.

"From now on, fruits and vegetables only. I don't think the next hero would be able to pick him up if he eats anymore," she panted. On that note, she found her bike through the mass of people and slid down to the cement floor once again, leaning her back on it.

A slender girl approached her and bent down to speak to her. Jessica recognized her as the student she picked up earlier today.

"Thank you for everything tonight. If it weren't for you, I wouldn't have been able to get here. Thank you so much." Tears started to run down Yoona's face again.

Jessica smiled gently and stretched her trembling hand forward. Delicate fingers touched her skin and gently wiped the trickle of tears off Yoona's cheek.

"You're welcome."

Chapter Five

"Wow. So typical of our Jessica to do something like that," Yuri whistled.

From yelling to a cheesy apology like that, the audience gasped and cringed. Resident hacker Seohyun had tapped into the building's security system and played the footage on her monitor. The rest of the team watched with great interest and newcomer Tiffany was somewhat disturbed by the actions of the so called 'Elite' team but her curiosity forced her to join in.

"My sad disciple Jessica, have you forgotten everything I've taught you? Okay, I hereby declare that she is no longer my student."

"My fingers are still curling from that," Hyoyeon commented.

"Forget about that for a second, as difficult as it may be. I can't believe she spoke to the Director like that," Onew said with awe.

"Only Jessica has that kind of guts."

"Jessica wants, Jessica gets," Yuri explained simply.

"Do you think that she'll be able to get us a new fridge? This one is acting up."

"Think of something other than FOOD for once Sooyoung."

"Tch. You asked for a disco ball remember?"

"..."

"I wanted a karaoke machine but was turned down."

"My Keroro posters were confiscated!" T.T

"I'm not allowed to perform my specialties here."

"Hmm. Very interesting. Keep it up guys. I'll make a list of all your orders before I go up again to fight for your leisure rights. While I'm at it, how about I tell the Director to FIRE US ALL?"

They all gasped simultaneously at the sight of their leader with her arms crossed, glaring at them.

"We...we...were...just joking Jessica, our beloved leader, who we are entirely grateful for and honoured to work with,? Sooyoung stammered.

"Really? I am under the impression that not only am I your leader, I am also the lead actress of your favourite television show."

"If you were to enter the entertainment industry, you would do awesome, I'm sure," Hyoyeon nodded earnestly.

Tolerance was a virtue that Jessica did not have at the moment. They held their breath and braced themselves for the upcoming outburst.

"YOU-"

"Jessica, are you ready to go yet?" a sweet voice sounded. Yoona, although she doesn't know it, had just turned into everybody's favourite dongsaeng and unnie.

Taking a deep breath and giving one last glare at her team members, she forced a smile as she faced Yoona.

"Yes I'm ready. Just give me one more second," she said evenly. Looking back at the curious yet frightened spectators, her anger weakened. Jessica sighed.

"Pack up and go home. As you already know, we have a new case coming up."

Leader or not, her authority was constantly questioned by these lazy bums. Leaving the now relieved members, Jessica headed to Yoona. Everyone dispersed to pick up their things except Yuri, who trailed behind Jessica.

"What are you doing?"

"I'm going with you."

"Going where?"

"To Yoona's"

"What?" Jessica exclaimed, probably a bit too loudly. Yuri stared at the bewildered face of Jessica then she burst out laughing.

"Oh my god, you thought Yoona only invited you, didn't you? An early meet the in-laws day?" Yuri teased.

"I...No! Kwon Yuri, you better stop that laughter right now before I make you!" Jessica pulled her fist back threateningly. A few more guffaws later and a tear, Yuri finally calmed herself down.

"Okay. No more laughing but you do realize that it's not just you and me but the whole team as well? Yoona's mom wanted to thank us all for taking care of Yoona so well."

Speechless and dumbfounded, Jessica just nodded.

Stifling her laughter, Yuri's eyes turned to short haired girl preparing to leave.

"Hey, where are you going?"

Startled, Tiffany halted.

"Uh...home?"

...and to my precious cup noodle dinner.

"No you're not. You seem like the type of girl who can't cook for your life and the only thing waiting at home for you is ramyun," Yuri said serenely. Tiffany just couldn't understand how the girl always seemed to be able to read her mind and so accurately at that.

"You're coming with us tonight. Mrs. Im is the best cook ever and she invited the whole team. And obviously, since you're part of our team now, you're coming too."

"I haven?t done anything yet and Mrs. Im doesn't even know me. I'm not sure if she'll mind or not. It's probably better if I don't disturb you guys. Have a good night."

Tiffany bowed politely and turned away once again. A hand stopped her though.

"Don't worry about that. I'm sure my mom won't mind. She loves to have people try her new recipes anyways," Yoona offered.

Tiffany still looked uncertain.

"Come."

Her voice was soft and gentle. Tiffany looked to see Jessica watching her. For the longest second, they were both unable to look away. Not really liking the sudden silence, Yuri clapped her hands loudly.

"Okay! No objections! Jessica, stop mesmerizing the poor girl with your gorgeous eyes. That's my job. Let's go!" Yuri wrapped her arm around Jessica's shoulder, dragging her by the head and with her other arm captured Tiffany's. Together, the trio walked past the glass doors with the rest following close behind.

~~~~~~~

"That was the best dinner I have ever tasted! Thank you for taking me in and for the amazing dinner, Mrs. Im."

Tiffany bowed again and returned with an eye smile.

"Oh, she is such a dear! You are always welcomed Tiffany," Mrs. Im chortled.

After saying their thanks and goodbyes, the group headed out the door.

"Anyone still up for karaoke? Or maybe a late night pool game? I'm up for anything. Let's party!"

Yuri was unnaturally high tonight. They were sure that they had absolutely no alcohol in their meal.

"We should all go home early tonight unnie. We have a new case tomorrow," Seohyun reasoned.

"You're a complete party pooper you know that?"

Yuri wanted to say more but felt something vibrate.

~My Song for my Juliette!~

"My cell."

With that, Yuri walked away to pick it up.

"Where do you live Tiffany? Do you need a ride?" Sooyoung asked.

"I live pretty far from the city. I'll take a taxi."

"Hey, it's not safe for you to go home so late at night alone," Onew stated. Tiffany let out a small laugh.

"I'm a police officer remember? I'll kick the butt of whoever dares to harm me. Thanks for caring Onew but I'll be alright."

"Nah, I still don't like the idea of you going alone. You're still recovering from all those bruises from the other day," Hyoyeon added.

"Unnie, it's probably better to get a ride."

"Good idea Seohyunnie, it's not safe for a pretty mushroom to go alone. I'll drive you home Fany!" Yuri said a little too cheerfully as she returned from the call. Before she could get any closer a hand grabbed her face pulling her back.

"Don't you dare think of dirty thoughts Kwon Yuri."

Tiffany flushed red again but thankfully the darkness hid it. Annoyed, Yuri pulled Jessica's hand off.

"Humph. Fine, don't let me drive. I have somewhere else to go anyways. Jessica go drive her yourself then, you noble person but I?m warning you now that she won't like your ride."

Ignoring Yuri's last jibe, Jessica stalked away, gesturing Tiffany to follow without looking back. Tiffany said goodbye quickly and ran to catch up with her.

"You and Yuri seem to always fight on opposite ends," she noted out loud. Jessica pondered on that as she retrieved her gloves and pulled in on.

"We do, don't we..."

"But I also notice that you guys only do that because you guys are really close."

Jessica smiled.

"We're complete opposites but we are really close. She's always been there to back me up and I'll do the same for her."

Tiffany got on behind Jessica and pulled the helmet over her head. She was agitated by the dangerous vehicle. If it were anyone else driving, Tiffany would've never got on.

"I'm new to the whole riding on a vehicle with two wheels. Even as a kid, I kind of avoided bicycles so drive slower please."

"Mm." Jessica agreed. The engine roared loudly and Jessica's boot left the cold cement. The wind whipped across them and strands of hair were flying as they took off.

This wasn?t too bad.

Perhaps thinking too soon, the vehicle roared some more and their speed increased drastically. Jessica felt like vomiting thanks to Tiffany's tight grip on her waist.

"I THOUGHT WE?RE DRIVING SLOW!" Tiffany screamed.

"THE SIGN SAID A HUNDRED!"

"WHERE IN THE WORLD DID YOU SEE THAT???"

The darkness was so dominant here that Tiffany could barely see what was in front of her, let alone some small sign on the side.

"Good vision?" Jessica shrugged. Good vision was a lame explanation but Jessica didn't know how she managed either. It just came naturally. She made a turn and felt another tug on her waist.

"GO SLOWER!"

"I'M ONLY GOING 130!"

"THE SIGN SAID A HUNDRED!"

"YEA, I KNOW. SIGN PLUS THIRTY!"

The math made no sense to her but Tiffany wasn't going to argue. Scared was not good enough to describe her feelings. Now she knew what Yuri meant. Jessica's driving was insane.

~~~~~

Yuri slammed her car door shut and climbed the stairs to the mansion. The call was not completely unexpected but she really wasn't in the mood to pretend that she was happy about it. The maids and butlers bowed low for her as she walked pass. The maids watched curiously as the heiress made her way up to her father's room. It was very rare that Mr. Kwon returned home so the interaction between the distant father and daughter should be interesting.

Yuri knocked on the elegant wooden door and was admitted in. At the end of the room was a large desk and behind it sat her father, the founder of Kwon Enterprises.

"Why did you phone me?"

"Is that the right way to greet your father?"

"Depends on what you're going to say next. If it's not going to be something I'm sick of hearing then I apologize."

Mr. Kwon scowled. Formalities between the two had been long forgotten.

"If that is what you want then fine. There is no point pretending any longer. You are nearing your deadline Yuri."

"I never agreed to it."

"Whether you want it or not, you have no choice. And you did agree to it my daughter. Did you think that I would've let you venture into the whole cop business if you hadn't?"

Yuri didn't reply. He knew he had won this round.

"The game has come to an end. You had your fun messing around these years. Once you turn 24, you are to work for me and handle the family business. I believe that's in less than a month."

Was Yuri supposed to be glad that he remembered her birthday? That was the only topic that they ever shared with each other. Work for me Yuri. Do what you were asked to do Yuri and don't question it. Obey me Yuri. Anything outside his job was worthless to him.

"I'm not in the mood for this. I don't want to get involved with you and your dirty business. I'm not going to work for you!"

"You know those words mean nothing." he said forcefully, "You promised, we had a deal. Your brother is in America safely studying in university because you offered to trade with him. If not, then I might as well just get him back here in Korea to do his job. You will then be free to skip along and continue being the police officer that you never wanted to be in the first place."

Yuri's arms fell limp, shaking her head.

"No...don't. I promise that I'll be ready in a month's time."

Mr. Kwon smirked triumphantly. Nothing could compare to how much Yuri cared for her brother and that was something Mr. Kwon intended to use to his advantage.

"It's good to know that you have grown over these years. You will eventually come to accept my terms and enjoy it."

Yuri exited the room. Once the door was shut, she ran down the hall. She hated every second of it. She hated it even more when she knew he was right. Yuri caught up with her car and punched hard on the bullet-proof window. Yuri pounded on the glass until all her anger was released.

Yuri flung her car door open with such force that it rebounded back. She took deep breathes. Her hand searched inside her bag and pulled out her badge. It was Yuri's only proof that she had a bit of control over her own life. Of all the things she could have chosen, Yuri chose to be a police.

It was out of whim with no thought behind it. Her decision was based on what her father would hate most, something that would annoy him. Eventually, Yuri discovered that she enjoyed the job because she surprisingly found friends that she could trust without question.

She looked at the clock in her car. Her brother would be in school right now due to the time difference. Although she hadn't seen him for years, she often talked to him online. Their relationship did not deteriorate at all over these many years. Yuri remembered the time when she messaged him telling him about her job. Much to her surprise, he was proud. Would he still, if he knew that she was soon to return into being the criminal?

Chapter Six

Yoona unlocked the door with her card and entered the WYE team's headquarters. She did not plan to return so late at night but her research kept nagging her throughout the night. After working for long hours in her lab, she decided to take a break, possibly find some food as well. Yoona switched on the lights and screamed.

"Turn off the lights..." a voice said groggily.

"Yuri! I wasn't expecting anyone here."

Yuri was on the couch covered by a thin blanket. Apparently, she had been sleeping here the entire night.

"Why are you still here instead of home?"

"Not tonight. My dad's home."

Yuri groaned some more as she pushed herself up. Yuri's eyes were barely open Yoona noticed as she sat down next to her. Yoona understood that Yuri's relationship with her father was poor but never had she seen Yuri had to flee to the headquarters to escape him.

"Yuri, is everything okay?"

The questioned girl did not answer. Yoona felt that she shouldn't invade into Yuri's privacy but her curiosity lingered.

"Yoona, can you turn around?" Yuri finally asked. Yuri's deadened voice increased Yoona's worry and she obliged without questioning.

Yoona's eyes widened when arms slowly wrapped around her waist, pulling her in and she felt Yuri's head to her back. Kwon Yuri was crying. Yoona didn't know if the warmth they shared was able to comfort her but all Yoona wanted to do now was to hold the crying girl close until all her worries disappeared.

~~~~~~

"Alright. The group suspected to be involved is led by Simeon Laurenco. He was a scientist in America. He was not very well known to begin with but after he left America, there were absolutely no news about him. He literally disappeared until this came up. The main problem is that none of Gyuri's sources have seen him before and he is never there during transactions so it's difficult to catch him. The one person that always does his dirty work is named Damian. I'm guessing he is second in charge. He also happened to have once worked with Joseph Jung. It is highly possible that he assisted Simeon Lourenco into recreating this drug."

Jessica repeated the information that KARA's leader had given her. The rest of WYE team was all sitting down on the couch listening and waiting for their orders. Jessica uncrossed her arms and left the wall she was leaning on. She waited a bit for the information to sink in before continuing on.

"We have the information. We have their names, their photos, and we know exactly what they are doing but the point is that we have to catch them. Our job is to capture the ones involved and find their base. Simply put, the only way to do that is to take part of their business, to become one of their customers."

"Fortunately, we already have one part paved out for us," Yuri continued. "Gyuri used her source to contact them and we got ourselves a transaction this afternoon. IoSeph's very own Damian is waiting for one Ms.Song and her bodyguard."

Murmurs erupted but ended quickly. Jessica then took over again.

"The rendezvous location that they told us to be is not our final destination. Clearly, they are testing us. Even so, we are going to make sure that we follow the two wherever they may end up."

"Seohyun, I need you to get access to all cameras around the area and wire our communications so that everything will be recorded and heard from our vehicle as well as everyone else on the team," Jessica ordered.

Seohyun nodded in comprehension and left her seat. She immediately started on her work.

"Hyoyeon and Onew will act as typical citizens, keeping an eye on them. Sooyoung, I need you on top of the building across to keep an aerial view of the plaza. Make sure to report anything strange and or possible suspects. Equip yourself with whatever is necessary. I will be watching everyone in the vehicle. Anything report worthy, tell me. Even if it's not, tell me anyways."

The three who just received their orders left the meeting area and started on their preparations. Only Tiffany and Yuri were left with Jessica.

"Tiffany. You are going to be our Ms. Song. You are new and will give them less of a chance of them figuring out our connection."

"Plus the fact that you look so adorably blank and innocent," Yuri whispered. Jessica did not appreciate that comment.

"Kwon Yuri. You'll be the bodyguard. You both need to come for preparations. We're changing your look. That pink sweater has got to go."

~~~~~~~

Tiffany looked into the mirror. Surely this was not her. The person altering her appearance had added extensions to her short hair and tied her hair up into one long pony tail. Her bangs were split so that it fell diagonally across her forehead, covering most of her right eye. The addition of smoky makeup, the sleek wardrobe and the pair of sunglasses that was given to her changed her into a different person. The only similarity between the Tiffany she knew and her reflection now was the mouth that refused to close because of shock.

Jessica stared approvingly at the change. Ms. Song, supposedly rich but ill-disciplined was slowly coming into view. She picked up the suitcase and handed it to Tiffany.

"Your exchange for the drug. The drug doesn't come cheap and we're buying a whole load of it. Take care of the money."

Tiffany took it from her leader and opened it. The stacks of money blinded her momentarily and she closed it shut. Tiffany nodded in understanding. She will not fail the team and she must clean up her messy record.

A sound of curtains drawing back told the two that Yuri was coming out and had also finished her preparations. Tiffany's mouth dropped open again. Kwon Yuri looked amazing.

Yuri was wearing loose black pants that only accentuated her slim waist and figure. Inside, she wore a white tank top with a leather jacket that finished just pass her chest. The sleeves of the jacket were pulled up, revealing skin followed by a pair of gloved hands. What perfected her image were the tattoos that were drawn on her arms and extended up to her neck. Although it was slightly hidden by her long black hair, the result was no less effective. The mysteriousness just emphasized her bad girl look and screamed 'hot'.

Yuri caught Tiffany staring and grinned. There was nothing more flattering than having the full attention of a beautiful girl.

"Hmm. You turned out pretty interesting yourself, my mushroom."

"Thanks. You look...wow."

Getting impatient with them two admiring each other, Jessica cleared her throat.

"We don't have much time. We have exactly an hour left to get there so get your butts into the car and get ready."

She tested the earpiece that Seohyun had just given her.

"Team, we're moving out."

~~~~~~~~

Today was a beautiful day. The sun was bright, the sky was cloudless and the streets were filled with people. A girl with a doll head over her shoulders was skipping around passing out yellow balloons to the excited crowd of kids. Everything was so peaceful.

A giggling pair of friends exited the mall and was gossiping about their recent activities. One of them patted the other on the shoulder and pointed to the center of the open plaza. The shorter turned in the direction of her finger and figured out the reason for her friend's excitement. In the middle stood two women, one wearing sunglasses and the other dressed in black. It was the taller one that fascinated her. The innocent school girl remembered how her mother told her to stay away from dangerous looking people but god, she was so attractive.

Yuri squinted from the blinding sunlight and surveyed her surroundings. Could it be any more distracting to have her own family's mall right next to her? Kwon Enterprises literally owned everything and the giant K on the doors told her that this mall was no exception. Turning away, she continued scanning the area.

There were no signs of anything unusual. To be honest, the two didn't know what to expect. All they were told was that someone will inform them of their next location. Her vision was suddenly blocked with balloons. The part-timer had finally made it across the street pass the little kids.

The girl picked a balloon out of her batch and waved it enthusiastically in front of Yuri. With the balloon flapping in front of her face, Yuri could not see a single thing. Tiffany saved Yuri by taking the balloon out of the girl's hand and said a quick thank you. The worker's large head bobbed up and down as she skipped away.

Tiffany's fingers felt something unusual about the stick the balloon was attached to. Tiffany nudged Yuri for her attention and lifted the stick to eye level. Scratched on delicately on the plastic were numbers.

"1024.3.606," Tiffany translated. "What does that mean?"

"1024 has to be the building number meaning it's the mall,? Yuri stated, noticing the four digit number imprinted on the structure. "3 stands for the section and the last represents the sixth floor, number 606 on the floor plan." Growing up near this area and also due to the extra preparation they had to do earlier, Yuri was fairly familiar with the building.

"Come on."

The two walked quickly and entered. The mall was huge. Separated into three large sections and stretching up to six floors, the mall was shopping heaven to any girl out there. Glass replaced the ceiling, showering the insides with natural light. They hurried to the escalators and climbed up quickly, ignoring the numerous attractions the mall provided. By the fourth ride up, Yuri was pushing her way through the limited space available, even grabbing onto a man's jacket and pulling him so that the pair could get through.

Unlike the others who complained loudly, the man simply got off on the fourth floor and walked calmly away watching the two head to floors above. Even in that quick second, Onew had gotten the message. He pulled the slip of paper out and spoke to air.

"They are now heading to the sixth floor, 3rd section to number 606. It will take them around three more minutes to reach their location and if my memory doesn't fail me, it happens to be the ladies washroom. There are two cameras near the area, one capturing the doorway and the other in the hall to it."

"Roger that."

All members were asked to study 3D maps and floor plans of all the buildings near rendezvous point and not surprisingly, Onew's eidetic memory, more commonly known as photographic memory, served well for the task. His ability to recall images, sounds, and objects perfectly was what made him an amazing asset to the team.

It was so typical of them to choose a restroom, Jessica noted. Of course it had to be the only place omit of cameras. Though certain that Onew was correct, Jessica ordered Seohyun to double check through her computer. Seohyun confirmed his words and rapidly tapped orders into her laptop. The monitors inside their vehicle flickered and changed so that that they could see from the two cameras Onew mentioned. Just in time too. Jessica and Yuri made quick eye contact through the camera before she and Tiffany walked in.

It was completely empty. Not surprising. Tiffany highly doubted that a top secret transaction were to take place next to the toilets. The next step must be hinted somewhere in here. The two split and searched the place, looking for any hint worthy material. Suddenly they heard something ringing. Tiffany caught Yuri's eye and edged closer to the last stall, pushing open the door lightly. On the toilet was a cell phone. Yuri nodded her head for Tiffany to pick up the phone. Yuri pressed an ear closely to the back of the phone.

"Hello?"

"Am I speaking to Ms.Song?" His deep voice sent chills into Tiffany.

"Yes.

"Good. The next location will be revealed to you shortly but we must confirm that you two are not being followed. We don't want to be caught."

No kidding...

Tiffany assumed that this man must be Damian.

"Let's play a game. Listen to my orders carefully. Follow them and we will meet. If you're late then you'll miss your chance. The elevator on the 2nd floor is waiting for you. You have exactly one minute before it closes starting now.?

The clock started ticking. They charged out of the restroom, sprinting at full speed. Yuri skidded to a stop pressing furiously at the elevator but it was taking too long. The escalators were also filled with too many people. One glance with each other told them to run to the corner of the floor. Tiffany's long coat glided behind as she pushed and dodged through the shoppers until they reached the secluded door, forcing it to open. The two were going down two steps at a time, jumping the last five. Tiffany grabbed the railing for a quick turn and continued on to the last floor. Time was running out.

Once back out into the mall, they searched furiously for the elevator.

"There!" Yuri said and ran towards the now closing elevator door. Never in her life had Tiffany's legs carry her this quickly before as they just barely pushed themselves through the small gap. The shorter girl slammed into the back of the box with Yuri cushioning her.

~Ding~

They had just made it with one second to spare. Panting, they felt the elevator go down. Clearly, it knew their next destination a lot better than they did.

The door slid open to welcome two men dressed in black and closed quickly. Before the girls could react, the men electrocuted them with tasers and pushed them to the wall. Tiffany shielded her suitcase with her arms as her face pressed uncomfortably on the wall. Tiffany felt violated as the hands of the bald man went down her body. Finally releasing them, the men backed off.

"They are unarmed."

Yuri glared at the unwelcomed guests and grabbed Tiffany's hand to make sure she was alright. They let go quickly however as the elevator reached the lowest level of the mall. Even Yuri, heiress of Kwon Enterprises and an avid shopper had never gone down so deep into the building.

It was just like any other regular underground parking lot except that this one was only occupied by two vans. A man had his back towards them when Tiffany and Yuri stepped out. He had a broad back, one that Sooyoung would approve, and was sculpted with muscles. He was tall, short hair and had nothing abnormal but once he turned around, Yuri could see the authority on his face. Damian was waiting for them.

"Ms. Song, welcome. We should not delay this any longer after that fun game. I have what you want." Damian picked up the large suitcase next to him and gave it a comfortable pat. One of his hands slipped inside his jacket. Tiffany's grip tightened on the suitcase, afraid that he was searching for his weapon.

To her relief, he pulled out a small bottle out from his jacket pocket instead. It was the exact same bottle they found before except that the carving was clear and intact. Letters of I, O, and S overlapped each other artistically, proving that this was indeed the real thing.

Damian smirked and threw it in the air. Tiffany caught it.

"This is just a little teaser for what you ordered."

Tiffany just nodded and was about to put it in her pocket.

"Aren't you going to try it first?"

The smirk on his face made it clear to the officers that he was still trying to test them.

"You and I both know very well what this thing does. Surely such a precious drug should not be wasted here. This deserves the perfect moment don't you think?" Tiffany said in her calmest voice possible. Damian's smirk widened.

"Of course."

Tiffany lifted her suitcase up.

"This is what you want right?"

Damian nodded. He gestured his comrade to carry his own suitcase forward. Yuri tugged on Tiffany's jacket and whispered.

"Let me do it."

She took the metal suitcase from Tiffany and walked closer the middle. The traders raised their cases, and grabbed the other with one hand before letting go of their own. Yuri backed up and opened the case they acquired.

It was not just a small bottle like the ones they were familiar with but much larger. What were they trying to do? Kill their customers? Surpass heaven and straight into hell?

Yuri closed the lid slowly when she heard a vibration echo through the parking lot and one of Damian's men picked up his cell.

The man nodded twice and then quickly shut its lid. He spoke quietly into Damian's ear. Tiffany stared intently. Damian had no change in expression and was still smiling as calm as ever. He crossed his arm across his chest watching Yuri and subtly tapped his finger. Human intuition had been proven to be very accurate when fear was invoked. Tiffany could feel faint changes stirring around her and it was clear that their meeting was coming to an end.

Without warning, Damian whipped out his gun and took aim.

Chapter Seven

Jessica destroyed her water bottle with her fist when she saw her members get slammed to the wall and was electrocuted unceremoniously by two bulging men. It was difficult to measure how badly she wanted to hop out of the car and beat the crap out of them.

Stay calm, Jessica. These are procedures. Gain trust, go in, get out, capture. That's our plan.

Seohyun and Jessica were watching the monitors carefully as the transaction continued. When they noticed Damian's finger moving, they knew something was coming. Jessica tapped her earpiece and spoke.

"Hyoyeon, Onew, Sooyoung. Be on standby. Make sure they are sa-"

The sound of gunshots rang out and chaos erupted on the screen.

"Forget standby! Hyoyeon, Onew go there now! They know!"

With that said, Jessica flung her vehicle door open and ran out.

~~~~~~~

The shot was aimed at her but Yuri reacted quickly and lifted the metal suitcase up just in time to deflect it. Behind her, Tiffany thrust her foot backwards and hit a guard straight in the face, then elbowing another who was coming at her. Grabbing hold of the one she just hit by the neck, she used him as a shield against the female attacker and pushed him forward to block the incoming bullet. The man fell to the ground. The attacker raised her gun again and aimed at Tiffany. Unaware of someone behind her, a suitcase slammed into the back of her head making her drop her gun and joining her comrade on the floor.

Distracted by Yuri's sudden attack on the enemy, Tiffany was hit squarely in the stomach and staggered backwards. It was the bald man from before. This time, Tiffany was not going to stay still. The man pulled out his taser again and swung his arm forward, aiming for her body. Tiffany did a quick turn while wrapping her coat around the man's face, kicked him down to his knees and pushed his own hand straight into his stomach. He yelled in pain from the electrocution before dropping down unconscious. Even with several down, there were still too many to handle.

Damian had enough of watching. While his guards were fighting, he took the suitcase filled with money and backed away to the car with two of his comrades following him. Yuri swung her suitcase around wildly, occasionally hitting her many attackers, hoping to create a path between the fleeing Damian and herself. She had to get to them before they could run away with the money. Unfortunately, Yuri did not see someone else pulling their gun out, aiming at her from behind.

"Yuri!" Tiffany screamed.

The gun erupted from her hands and the attacker fell to the floor. Appearing from behind, Hyoyeon returned the gun to her holster and joined Tiffany, quickly kicking butt. The tables were turned. Hyoyeon was beyond your normal fighter. Her agility was no joke and she never seemed to get tired. In less than a few minutes, all their foes were handcuffed and under arrest.

Yuri did not see the remainder of the fight for she sprinted with whatever's left in her after the car. The car zoomed away up to ground level, but inconveniently, the parking lot door blocked their exit. Seohyun was determined to close off all their escape routes. Damian pushed down on the pedal and the van accelerated to dangerous speeds, ramming into their obstacle and destroying it. Yuri could not chase any longer. Her legs gave way as she saw the gate ruined after the forceful impact. The van was leaving her behind.

The black vehicle escaped back onto the main parking lot, weaving in and out passing other honking cars. They were nearing the exit when Onew ran out from the front entrance. Onew watched its back as the van made its final turn onto the roads and accelerated some more.

Suddenly, a deafening pop sounded and Damian lost control of his car. It swerved unsteadily and flipped to its side, crashing into the metal fence. The sniper looked up triumphantly as she successfully ruined their escape by blowing a hole in their back wheel. Sooyoung returned to her scope. They were now trying to run away by foot.

The three in the car staggered out. Damian shouted orders at his remaining guards and fled alone, leaving the two to protect him. Screams emitted when the criminals shot bullets into the air causing complete chaos. Only in this mess could their leader escape.

Out of nowhere, a hand pulled the shooter's arm and twisted it painfully behind his back. The shooter's partner swerved around and blasted three consecutive shots. Jessica quickly spun her captive around and shielded herself from the bullets. The remaining gunner gaped fearfully at the sight of his fallen comrade. The blonde fighter turned to face him. In a flash, Jessica grabbed his collar and threw him to the fence and with even quicker speed, locked his hand to the fence with a pair of handcuffs.

Finally done dealing with the thugs, Jessica spotted Damian. Damian refused to look back towards the commotion. He knew his guards have failed him. Drawing his gun out from the holster, Damian aimed at the incoming car. It screeched to a stop. The gang leader pulled the door open and threatened the scared driver to get off.

Damian let out a beastly howl as he felt pain take over him. Even from this great distance, the sniper had unfailingly shot a bullet into his gun arm causing his weapon to drop. Within seconds, Jessica caught up to him. He fought her with his good arm while his right swung limply beside him. Jessica threw him over her shoulder and he fell hard on his back.

Still, he climbed back to his feet. Jessica could feel his anger but he grinned nonetheless, daring her to continue on the fight. Damian spun, using his dead arm as an attack and as Jessica dodged, he performed a back kick strong enough to push her back. Attacks of all sorts came flying at Jessica and although handicapped, Damian put up a fair fight. Still, his weak point was too easily identified. Dodging right from his punch, Jessica pivoted, executing a round house kick on the side that Damian could no longer protect.

Damian felt intense pain on his right and was knocked to the ground. His vision blurred and his head was spinning. His fingers trembled as he searched for the little bottle of liquid he was told never to drink. He was this close to putting it up to his lips when Jessica kicked the bottle away.

"You might hate me but I am doing you a favour right now. You'll learn to thank me someday."

That was the last thing Damian heard before his world turned black.

~~~~~~

Jessica flopped down on the couch, relieved that the day was finally over. She was tired. Of course, the others were just as tired and sore from the fight but their success kept a smile on all their faces.

"Jessica, shove over! I'm the one who ran down four levels, got electrocuted, ran back up five levels chasing the car-"

"-and collapsed. You think I missed that didn't you?" Jessica finished. Nonetheless, Jessica pulled herself up to free up some space. Yuri dropped down next to her and leaned her head on Jessica's shoulder. They enjoyed the silence for a long while. Everyone else had returned home when Gyuri had kindly offered to continue interrogation in their place so that they could rest.

"Why were you here the other night?" Jessica said, breaking the silence. Yuri's head popped right back up and stared at her with shock.

"How did you know?"

"Records," Jessica replied simply.

"Stalker...don't tell me you are actually my FanClub president?!?"

In response, Jessica just glared at her.

"What's wrong Yuri? You can tell me."

"It was all your fault. If only you let the others hang out with me the other night. Instead, I had to go the dance club by myself and was completely turned down by a girl. My pride has been severely damaged that night."

Jessica just looked at her, clearly not believing a single word she said.

"What? She just broke my winning streak that started ever since I was born!"

"What's wrong Yuri?" Jessica asked forcefully this time.

"Aish, just stop asking. If you don't believe me then you might as well just leave it," Yuri complained, eventually getting up to leave the persistent girl.

"No, I won't. Not until you tell me what's up. I'm not going to buy that crap. Something happened and I want to know."

Jessica trailed behind her as Yuri continued her childish escape around the office.

"Hey! Stop running away when I speak to you. Tell me or I'll-" She never got the chance to finish her threat. Yuri spun around before Jessica could react and placed her lips firmly on the blonde's, shutting her up.

5...4...3...2...1...

"Owwww, that hurt Jessica," Yuri whined from the ground. That was one fierce punch. This time it was no longer a lie. Kwon Yuri had just been fatally rejected by a girl and surprisingly, her big ego was still just as big.

"What was that for?" Jessica yelled at her, whipping her mouth with her sleeve. Still grinning like a kid, Yuri jumped up cheerfully and explained.

"That's what I do when an emergency comes. There's no way better to shut someone up than this. Negative effects of this may be that the victim will all of a sudden become very attached to you and will stalk you for the rest of your life. I'm not too worried about you though."

Yuri ducked an incoming swipe at her and fled for the door, laughing. When Jessica's ears turn red, it would be just plain stupid to hang around and watch the result of it.

"KWON YURI!"

~~~~~~

The door slammed open and Yoona jumped slightly on her seat. Jessica entered and her face was so red that she could've blended right in with Elmo on Sesame Street.

"Jessica, are you alright? Are you sick?" Yoona placed a hand one Jessica's forehead. It was burning hot.

"It's not that illness you had when you were young is it?" Yoona gasped.

"No, it's even worse. It's a disease called Kwon Yuri. The only cure is called 'Kill her'."

Yoona exhaled in relief. It was nothing serious, more or less the usual.

"You scared the heck out of me. Anyways, calm down. Grab a seat, get a drink and tell me what happened."

Jessica heeded and stomped over to the fridge. She grabbed a bottle of juice and placed herself next to Yoona.

"That idiot ki...kis...God, it's so embarrassing that I can't even say it.? Jessica twisted the bottle cap open, imagining that it was Yuri's head instead. She took a huge gulp, paused and spurt it right out. Coughing at the disgusting taste, her tongue stuck out, hands flying wildly, only to grasp thin air. Please let there be something, anything to take this repulsive flavor off her tongue.

"Jessica! That's not juice! That?s dog urine!"

"Oh yea, way to tell me now!" Jessica said sarcastically and then she ducked under the faucet and let the running water wash the taste away. Once her tongue was finally free from urine, Jessica straightened up. Her face was soaked with water. Yoona suppressed a giggle.

"Here," she said as she reached for the tissue box. Yoona did not see the puddle that formed on the floor and slipped. Jessica caught her hand just in time and pulled Yoona in before she fell.

Yoona could hear her heart thumping. They were so close to each other that their noses touched. A drip of water flowed from Jessica's face to hers. Her heart was now pounding furiously.

Unknown to the other, Jessica heart was beating equally fast. She had lost control over her body and her brain was not functioning. Her head tilted by itself. Some uncontrollable part of her wanted to close the space between them.

"Yoona! I think I found something that you will like~" Sunny sang as she pushed open the door.

"Oh, you're here too Jessica?"

Wiping her wet face hastily with her sleeve, Jessica tried to look poised.

"Uh yea. I wanted more info on IoSeph."

Sunny nodded in understanding.

"Oh I see. Well, Gyuri is looking for you right now, it doesn't seem like anything too serious though. You will probably find her in the interrogation rooms."

"Thanks Sunny. I'll go right now." Jessica took one fleeting look at Yoona and ducked her head down. Jessica quickly walked out of the room and left.

Yoona's beating heart had yet to calm down. They were less than a centimeter away from each other when Sunny came in. Was this supposed to mean something or was it just the spur of the moment?

"Yoona, I bought these delicious treats when I was out for lunch. I thought you might like them."

"Oh. Thank you Sunny unnie," Yoona replied half-heartedly. She took the treats from her boss and placed it on the lab table. Her work area was still a little wet with Jessica's spit. Yoona pulled out some tissues and wiped her desk and supplies clean. Yoona paused at a flask and lifted it up in the light. The once colourless solution that Sunny had used the other day was now bright green.

~~~~~~~~

A knock sounded from the door and Jessica peeked in. In the room was Gyuri standing and Damian handcuffed to the chair. She frowned at the sight.

"You called?"

Gyuri turned around to face her.

"Officer Jung! Yes, I did. I hope I didn't drag you away from your break."

You have no idea.

"I want to have a quick word with you," Gyuri said and she exited the door with Jessica beside her.

Once outside, Gyuri dropped the formalities.

"Jessica, this guy is being completely uncooperative. He had said nothing the whole day. What a waste of recording material. Thank god we don't use tape anymore. The only thing that was note worthy was that we verified his relation with Joseph Jung. Years ago, he worked as his assistant, aiding him with his research and creations. I know this may be a bit insensitive but have you ever seen or heard of him before when you were young?"

Jessica shook her head. She was never allowed around her father's workplace. Jessica had been severely yelled at when she tried. Gyuri just sighed. The most difficult part of an interrogation was not getting the information out but rather holding in your frustration.

"I understand your grief. Just take deep breathes and think of happy thoughts."

"Like beating the crap out of him?"

"Exactly. Just don't take your thoughts into action and you'll be fine."

Gyuri sighed. She nodded in comprehension and went back into the room. Once she saw Damian's face, her annoyance boiled up again.

"Okay. Breathe. Jessica said to breathe and think happy thoughts...happy thoughts..." Gyuri whispered to herself.

"Jessica?" his low voice grumbled.

"Jessica Jung?"

Gyuri stared at the suddenly responsive man. Damian's face split into a smile and then burst into laughter. His crazy laughter echoed in the room, making it scarier than it already was. Damian's stomach hurt from laughing so much. The situation had just turned into the world's most hilarious and ironic joke that ever came to existence.

Chapter Eight

"Hah! Take that Hyoyeon! Eat my dust!" Sooyoung roared as her race car pushed Hyoyeon's to the wall before driving off. The atmosphere was rather lax with Sooyoung and Hyoyeon playing video games, Seohyun catching up on some Keroro episodes while Onew looked over her shoulder, wondering what was so great about frogs. Jessica was sleeping in the corner, and Yuri was on the phone chatting with her newest girlfriend.

With no new leads yet, the team had spent their past few days following these routines. Surprisingly the phone rang and Onew picked it up.

"Hello, WYE team's Dubu Onew speaking." Onew bobbed up and down until his call ended. Onew headed for the corner, performed an unplanned body gag and continued walking.

"Jessica, Gyuri called to tell you that she needs you to go to the interrogation room. It had something to do with Damian."

Jerking awake, she thanked Onew for the message and took the elevator down. Gyuri was waiting for her the moment the elevator door slid open. They walked down the hallway together.

"Damian had made an unusual request to speak to you directly and you alone. I didn't like the idea at all when I first heard it but this may be the only way to get him talking. I hope that you will go speak to him right now."

It was not a question but even if it was, Jessica would've agreed anyways. If answers were to come out if he spoke to her, then fire away.

Gyuri opened the door for Jessica and inside was Damian in the same position he was last time. Jessica nodded for Gyuri to close the door and pulled out the chair out across from the man.

"Speak," Jessica ordered. Damian let out a chuckle.

"You are Jessica Jung, are you not?"

"Yes I am."

"I have heard a lot about you from your father. You were young, learning in high school. He told me a lot of things. You were his pride. He even told me how you wanted to become a police officer when you grow up and look, here you are, leader, doing exactly what you wished for."

"Cut the crap. Tell me where your base is."

Damian tsked at her impatience.

"You will have to hear me out before you get what you want. Aren't you interested at all about what I know of IoSeph's origin? I did after all work with your father."

"Not the slightest," she lied but it was obvious that Damian was going to say it anyways.

"It's a combination of countless illegal substances and it took everything from sweat to blood to get all of them. We did not plan it to give people enhanced senses. We thought simpler or at least Joseph did. It wasn't meant to be sold for profit because in his mind, all he wanted to do was to take care of you. Joseph adored you. He would've done anything for you even fulfilling your little wish of 'I want to become a police officer to protect people'" he mocked.

"SHUT UP!" Jessica yelled when Damian repeated that very line.

Damian did not. He loved her reaction. It was much better than he expected.

"You wanted to be a police officer but you just weren't made out for it. Weak and fragile from your illness. You nearly died I remember. He cried for you. He dedicated his life to you."

Jessica slammed her fist to the table. Her anger was rising.

"Would you just shut up? I know my past better than you ever will. Stop using my father against me. He sold drugs to the world that caused the death of many people. Don't you dare put him in a better light because he doesn't deserve it."

"I do not deny that he sold drugs but originally IoSeph was made for something else."

Her finger reached for a button and all cameras and recorders were turned off. Jessica pulled out her gun and aimed for his head.

"Enough of this, you're testing my patience. Don't make me kill you. Lie again and I will pull the trigger. Where is Simeon Lourenco? Where is your base?"

Damian leaned forward, pressing his forehead to the gun. The metal was refreshingly cold.

"Shoot me."

Jessica's finger made contact with the trigger just when her cell phone rang. Not taking her eyes off Damian, she picked up her phone.

"Hello?"

"Jessica, this is Yoona! There's something wrong. The solution turned bright green!"

Bewildered, Jessica urged on.

"What are you talking about Yoona? Calm down. Say it slowly!"

"Jessica! There's no other way to say it. You have IoSeph in you!"

The phone dropped to the floor.

"Jessica? Hello? Jessica?"

Yoona's voice was now distant. Jessica froze. What did she mean? So many things were flying through her mind that she staggered backwards, using the chair to hold herself up. How did this happen? IoSeph...inside her?

The answers were in Damian. Jessica turned to face him, her face as white as paper. Her voice was shaking. Her gun was pointed at him once more.

"What was its original purpose? What was IoSeph's original purpose?" she demanded. Damian smirked. Finally she figured it out.

"Your father is not only a scientist but a doctor, Jessica. IoSeph was a drug he created. IoSeph, J.J, Joey, and whatever else the people called it. It was a drug he created to cure you."

Damian placed his finger on the gun's tip and tilted it away. The shock had caused Jessica to shake from head to toe. Now he was in control. He crossed his arm across his chest.

"So this is the trade off. Rather selfish of you, really. So many people died in exchange for you. How do you feel now, Officer Jung? You stand for justice. Is it fair for you to be standing in light when you should be hiding in the dark? Is it fair for you to continue living?"

Damian smirk was becoming more and more demented and his fingers reached out taking the gun from Jessica. He traced the gun carefully and gripped it by its handle, tickling the trigger with his finger. Damian aimed at her.

"I should avenge all of those who died. I should kill you."

~~~~~~

Gyuri tapped fiercely at the now dark screened monitor. What was Jessica thinking when she shut those down? Throwing her pen down to the floor, Gyuri stomped out of the control room and went to find Jessica.

Just when Gyuri was about to reach the room, a gunshot roared in the deadly silence. Gyuri pushed open the door and looked at the wall behind the frozen officer. A hole, smoking from impact, was now engraved there. Jessica's arm was bleeding. The bullet had grazed her skin and her skin burned. It was nothing however compared to what her mind was going through though.

Gyuri quickly snatched the gun away from Damian and watched Jessica exit, shutting the door close behind her. Gyuri took one last glance at the criminal and followed her out.

"Jessica, what in the world were you doing in there? How could you just stop recording like that?"

The deadened officer did not reply. She walked straight pass Gyuri. KARA's leader did not like being ignored. She grabbed onto Jessica's shoulder.

"Officer Jung! Did you hear me at all?"

Jessica knocked Gyuri's hand with her arm and pushed her away. Gyuri's eyes widened at her actions. She watched Jessica go up the elevator and leave without looking back.

~~~~~~~

Tiffany parked her car on the driveway and got out of her old and trusty car, giving it a gentle pat. She was not the richest girl out there so she did not have the option to go buy herself a sports car but even if she could she wouldn't. This was her first car and it was loved.

Tiffany was about to close the door when she heard a familiar roar nearby. The black motorcycle was speeding away from the building and passed her.

"Jessica!" she called out but was ignored. The motorcycle was driving dangerously and was nearly hit by another police car. Surely Jessica wouldn't drive that carelessly. Tiffany looked down on the ground and found specks of blood trailing behind where Jessica had just past. Sensing that something wasn't right, Tiffany flung herself back into her car and started the engine.

Jessica's speed was much too fast. Tiffany's car could barely keep up but at least the bike was still in her view. The motorcycle swerved hazardously and did not seem to have much control. The two vehicles drove off to a more secluded road, with only fields of grass and nature around them. They were getting farther and farther away from civilization.

The motorcycle exceeded all speed limits and was at an unimaginable velocity. Jessica did not care as to where she was going. She just wanted to escape. The two speeding vehicles were going so fast that they had completely missed a sign saying 'DANGER. FALLEN TREE AHEAD'.

Jessica's motorcycle was going too fast to stop. The front wheel slammed into the tree and sent its owner flying through the air and crashing onto the hard rocky road, rolling endlessly, only stopping when she reached grass. Her helmet was lying meters away from where she laid unconscious.

The second vehicle was able to stop just meters away from the fallen tree. Tiffany bolted out of the car and stared terrified at the remains of the first two-wheeled vehicle she had ever sat on.

Tiffany climbed over the gigantic tree, and she saw her most dreaded scene. She ran and slid down next to Jessica, lifting the fallen figure up into her arms. Jessica was bleeding badly. The branches of the tree and the rocky path had torn through her clothes, embedding deep cuts on her body and scratches on her face. Her beautiful blonde hair was soaked with blood.

"Oh my god, Jessica," was all Tiffany could say. Tears leaked out as she held onto her tight. Her cheek pressed onto the bleeding girl's head as she reached for her phone.

"Please, I need an ambulance right away!"

~~~~~~

The WYE team had left work early to go to the hospital where Jessica was sent to. Taeyeon, Sunny and Yoona were also present. Tiffany wrapped her arm around her legs pulling them in to hide her tears. Seohyun and Sooyoung were both struggling to not cry but were unsuccessful. Hyoyeon and Onew patted them on the back, trying to comfort them as best as they could. Yoona had her head on Yuri's shoulders as Yuri also tried to comfort her. Pass Yoona's shoulders, she made eye contact with Taeyeon and they both understood. Something had happened to Jessica during her conversation with Damian.

The doctor finally came out shaking his head. Taeyeon was the first to approach him.

"How is she?"

"She must have gone through a lot to receive injuries of that magnitude. I tidied her up the best I could. She is in no immediate danger but I recommend a lot of rest. You may visit her now but try not to crowd around her. She must have been in great shock when she drove that motorcycle of hers."

Taeyeon nodded and thanked the doctor. She relayed the message to everyone else.

"We can't all enter at once. We'll split into three groups."

Yoona and Yuri immediately got up from their seats. Taeyeon looked at the pair. They were closes to Jessica and should be able to see her first.

"Yoona and Yuri can go in first. Tiffany, you can join them since you found her. If it weren't for you, Jessica may still be out there severely hurt."

Yoona held onto the doorknob with trembling hands. Some part of her did not want to see the sight of Jessica hurt. Yuri's hands covered hers, giving her reassurance and courage. Together they twisted the doorknob and gently pushed the door open.

Jessica was covered in bandages. Although the cuts and scratches were all covered and attended to, Tiffany could not shake the image of Jessica's bleeding self out of her head. It frightened her so badly. The three made their way inside the room. Yuri sat down on the bed and picked up Jessica's cold hands. Jessica was awake but she just stared blindly into the ceiling. It was this that scared them the most.

"Jessica, can you hear me?" Yuri asked gently. Jessica looked at her visitors for a brief second before turning her head away. Jessica didn't want them to see her cry.

Yoona cried even harder and Tiffany put her hands over her mouth when they noticed something trickle down onto Jessica's cheeks. Yuri's eyes were starting to water. She rolled her eyes trying her best to hold it all in. She let go of Jessica's hands and used her fingers to wipe the tears that Jessica was not able to control.

"You fool..." she murmured. "Why are you turning away from us? We're your family. We'll be there for you...no matter what happens. We'll always love you."

Chapter Nine

The atmosphere of the WYE team's headquarters was weary. All members were sitting at their desks, pretending to do work when all they could do was stare into space. Not a sound was made. Occasionally, they would take turns sneaking a glance at the empty corner desk before returning to their gloomy selves. Two weeks had passed just like that but no one was complaining. A single member missing stood out like a sore thumb.

KARA's team had taken over the case once again as their leader was currently unavailable. Every one of them refused at the idea of someone else to be their temporary leader. Although nothing was said, Yuri had taken over the task, only because it was mandatory but was trying harder to lighten up the spirits a little instead. It wasn't working very well for she did not feel like brightening up herself, let alone cheering others. A cemetery seemed like a party in comparison to this team.

They all heard the sliding door open to admit a person in. She was dressed in casual clothes, still bandaged, and had long blonde hair flowing pass her shoulders. Although limping slightly, she entered with the same sergeant walk that everyone missed dearly. Jessica had returned to them.

The grouped cheered and pushed their way in front of her. The juniors each gave her a quick hug before letting go to let the next member move in. Seohyun, Onew, Hyoyeon, and Sooyoung crowded before her, grinning like they never grinned before.

"JESSICA! I MISSED YOU SO MUCHIE!" Hyoyeon exclaimed.

"Unnie! Are you still hurt? Are you returning to work right now?"

"Jessica I promise I will never ever annoy you with my desires for food again!"

"And I swear that I will no longer fall and break your things either!"

Jessica chuckled at all the questions, promises, and random outbursts that the team made.

"You shouldn?t make such quick promises like that. I might just take them seriously."

Jessica noticed that two were missing from the group crowding around her. She parted a path between the four and walked towards the two remaining members.

Yuri just sent a smile and a quick salute which Jessica returned. That was all there was to it. They didn't need to express their feelings with words. Jessica stopped midway when she saw a mushroom like girl start crying. Tiffany wiped her tears with the back of her hand and rushed to Jessica. The blonde embraced her and stroked the shorter girl's hair gently.

"Did you know how scared I was when I saw you crash and fly through the air like that? Did you know how frightened I was when I saw you bleeding? I thought you died," Tiffany sobbed.

"Shhh...I'm alright now. Don?t worry about me. I'm not going to die that easily. Thank you for following me and thank you for saving me. Now don?t cry. I'm standing here, all healthy and sergeant-like. I'm not going anywhere. Don't cry," Jessica soothed, breaking their embrace and wiped Tiffany's tears away for her.

Tiffany continued sniffling but was smiling all the same. Colour had finally returned to their team.

"I need to talk to Taeyeon right now," Jessica announced. "Yuri, take care of the team for me."

Jessica gave one last pat on Tiffany's head and exited the room. Yuri wondered what that last comment meant.

~~~~~~

Jessica was immediately welcomed into Taeyeon's office and she made her way to face Taeyeon.

"Sica, how are you? Still recovering?" Taeyeon asked. Jessica nodded and pulled out something from her jacket. She placed the letter on Taeyeon's desk.

"I don't know if Yoona told you yet but I have the IoSeph in me."

Taeyeon picked up the letter and read it quickly before returning it onto the desk.

"Yes. Yoona did mention that a few days ago. What are your thoughts on it?"

"I want to resign. It's bad for a police officer to have something as dangerous as this drug within her. There are unpredictable side effects to it."

"And yet you are not suffering from any of those after so many years. Why is that?"

Jessica wondered the exact same thing.

"I don't know. All I know is that there have been times when I felt that I was stronger than others, quicker than others. I also have perfect vision, have never gotten sick again after high school, and I have jumped down buildings unscathed. It's all because of this drug. Without it, I'm pretty useless," she said with a hint of sadness.

"I wouldn't bet on that. Sure, your senses have sharpened immensely but it's you who made every decision that ever came up. You are not affected by the nastier side of the drug so I see no need for you to resign."

"I'm basically illegal. How would the public take it if they knew one of their officers protecting them has this drug inside her? Not to mention the countless people that died because of me?" Jessica persisted.

Taeyeon just shrugged.

"What they don't know won?t hurt them. Plus, how would the public take it if I revealed every single case that you ever taken and successfully closed? They'd probably want to set up a parade for you down on the streets right now. The distribution of the drug is not your fault. Others were manipulating its usage and Damian was manipulating you."

"Then I don't deserve to be an officer if he could do that to me so easily. The guilt inside me is killing me, Taeyeon."

"Then make up for it. Do your job seriously and tell everyone you're sorry. Apologize to the world by making sure that IoSeph will never see light again. Capture the one responsible for it."

Jessica clenched and unclenched her fist as Taeyeon spoke to her. What was she suppose to do?

"I'm Joseph Jung's daughter."

"And I'm my parents."

"Taeyeon..."

"Nope. I'm not going to take it. Like you've once asked me before, I'm going to ask you now for a better reason to resign than your so called 'cursed' relation with Mr. Joseph Jung or your association to IoSeph. I don't take 'it's for your own good' as an answer either."

With a triumphant smirk, Taeyeon knew she had won. Taeyeon placed herself beside Jessica and smacked her hard on the back.

"Don't worry Jessica. You are forever a great police officer and forever WYE team's leader."

Nothing came out but Taeyeon thought she heard a sniffle.

"Awww. There's no need to find words to thank me. It's my job to sound charismatic and awesome."

Still no sound.

"Jessica?"

"My back...my wound...ahh..." Jessica managed to grunt.

=_=

~~~~~~~

"You're taking the last line back?"

"Yes."

"I thought so," Yuri said as she finished the final drop of her drink.

"One more please."

The waiter nodded and left. Jessica didn't like the ear pounding music but Yuri didn't seem to mind. Her head bobbed along, entertained and looked at the dance floor, searching for her next target.

"If you're just going to find a new girlfriend then I rather not watch," Jessica said. Turning back to face her, Yuri just smiled.

"I invited someone. She should be coming right now."

Jessica perked up at the surprising news.

"Who?"

"Who do you want it to be?"

Okay, now Yuri was just playing with her. Jessica sank back to her original bored position, regretting that she ever asked.

"It's not like I get a choice since you already invited her."

Yuri tapped her fingers rhythmically on the table, surveying Jessica attentively.

"It's someone we both know. Does her name start with a T or does it start with a Y?"

Jessica froze.

"What are you playing at?"

"Just curious as to whom you want to see."

"I don't know what you're talking about," she mumbled. Yuri placed her chin on the back of her hands and laid herself over the table.

"I'm sure you do. You can't be that oblivious."

Jessica didn't answer. She didn't like where the conversation was going.

"Confused?" Yuri questioned. Judging by the lack of answer, Yuri knew she was right.

"Just remember to tell her that you like her before it's too late," Yuri finished.

Don't be like me wasting my remaining time here.

"Like the way you tell it to every girl you meet?" Jessica said sarcastically.

"I've never told anyone that," Yuri said quietly. Luckily Jessica was not able to hear that over the blaring music. Not too fond of talking about her muddled up feelings, Jessica lifted her bag over her shoulder.

"It's getting late. I'm going to go. Remember to say sorry to the unfortunate girl you meet today." Jessica got up from her seat. She turned to the door and stopped. Two very familiar people were making their way to the table.

Jessica felt Yuri's chin over her shoulder.

"Didn't expect that huh?"

Jessica flung her bag over her opposite shoulder and hit Yuri in the face. Of course she didn't expect that and she hated Yuri for it.

"Hey Jessica. Hi Yuri. Are you okay?" Tiffany asked innocently.

"Never better," Yuri answered, clutching her nose. Thankfully, it was not bleeding but it throbbed painfully. Exactly what Jessica had in her bag Yuri did not know but she suspected that it was either a brick or a slab of cold cold ice.

Yoona just smiled. She was too used to their antics to even bother asking.

"Sit sit, make yourself at home. Oh and Jessica would like me to say sorry to you guys."

Another swipe was aimed at Yuri but this time she dodged it.

"Huh?" was all Tiffany could say when she sat herself down next to Yoona. Across from her were Yuri and Jessica sending telepathic messages to each other.

"It's nothing. She's just being an idiot again," Jessica answered. Yuri grinned happily.

"Since it's not so 'late' anymore, let's go have some fun!"

With that Yuri dragged Tiffany and Yoona by the hand and onto the dance floor, leaving Jessica alone to bang her head on the table.

~~~~~~~

Jessica could hardly believe that she was doing this. For years she had told herself never to go talk to him again but now she had authorized her visit down to the prison and was standing just a door away from her father. Jessica took a deep breath. She opened the door and saw Joseph Jung sitting nervously. Once he saw her, Joseph jumped from his seat but was held back by the police officer.

"Jessica..."

Jessica sat down across from him. She gestured for the other officer to leave and the officer nodded. He shut the door behind him and all was left was Jessica and her father.

"You got thinner," she said, surveying her father. He had also gotten a lot older. White hair was visible and the sufferings of prison were obvious.

"I thought I would never be able to see you again. You've changed a lot."

"With much thanks to your creation, I've managed to survive for so long."

Joseph gulped. She knew.

"I didn't know of another way. I had to make IoSeph. If not...you would have died." His hands trembled and Jessica looked away, pretending that she did not notice.

"Then why did you sell that drug to other people if it was made for me? Have you any idea how many people died from it?"

"It was not intended for others!" he said angrily. He soon calmed down when he looked at Jessica.

"That drug was intended for you and only for you. It was not meant to be taken by anyone else."

Something did not add up.

"If you knew that, then why did you do what you did years ago?"

Joseph ran his hands through his hair.

"I don't know, I don't know. I didn't even know of the deaths before the police took me in and arrested me. I told them I had nothing to do with it but because they found it in my lab and because it was a unique drug, they believed that I was behind the whole ordeal. Once I've been taken custody, the drug distribution had completely ceased and it just basically confirmed my association with it. It was a setup but there was no use in telling them that. I admitted to it."

"If this is true and you are not lying, why did you admit to it? Why didn't you try harder to prove your innocence?" Jessica questioned, her volume threatening to rise.

"Did you know that admitting to it means a lifetime service in jail? Did you have any idea how it would affect me when I heard that my father was a drug dealer and taken so many lives? Did you even think of how I would be able to survive without you, all alone at such a young age? And now I have to live on knowing that everyone is dying because of me?how do you think I feel?"

"I'm sorry Jessica...I'm sorry."

"I DON'T WANT A SORRY! I WANT AN EXPLANATION!"

Jessica did not plan on such an outburst and it scared both her and her father. Jessica felt a twinge of guilt but was unable to take it back. Joseph's voice was wavering.

"If I didn't admit to it so early, the police would continue searching and eventually they would find you. They would know that you have taken the drug. They would take you away too. I didn't want you to know that you're living on an illegal drug. I wanted you to be happy believing that you were healing, you were getting stronger. I didn't want to crush your hopes of becoming part of the police force."

Joseph Jung watched as his daughter sink slowly back to her chair. He was sorry. He was truly sorry for everything she went through because of him. He reached out slowly for her hands but Jessica stood up before he did.

"Joseph Jung," she said coldly. Joseph looked into her emotionless eyes.

"Thank you for your cooperation. This will be it for today. You will return to your cell."

"Jessica...forgive me."

Jessica ignored him and went out the door. The previous officer noticed her leave and went in to retrieve Joseph Jung. Jessica exited the building and to her brand new silver motorcycle. She wiped her eyes clean before anything could leak out. She drew out her cell from her back pocket and dialed.

"Hello?"

"Taeyeon? It's Jessica. I would like to request a re-examination on Joseph Jung's case. Yes, Joseph Jung's. I believe he's innocent."

Chapter Ten

Jessica had told Taeyeon not to mention that it was she who made such a request. After her request though, Taeyeon had decided it best for Jessica and her team to temporarily leave the case IoSeph to team KARA, at least until Joseph's Jung re-examination was over. Taeyeon did not want the present case to affect the results nor did she want Jessica to act rashly during these times.

Jessica strolled calmly into WYE headquarters. She had not completely healed yet so to some degree, she was happy about Taeyeon's decision plus she would hate herself if she did anything to affect the outcome. Innocent or not, it was their job to figure it out. She waved for her members to gather around the couch and Jessica flopped herself lazily onto it. The biggest joy of having a living room like area within an office had to be the comfortable atmosphere it provided.

"What's up?" Yuri asked, picking up a pillow before sitting down next to her.

"We are to temporarily leave the case IoSeph so enjoy some rest before we dive right back into it."

"Huh? Why?" Onew asked.

"Complications. KARA team is doing fine though. They managed to choke some information out of Damian and even more from their source. Since I'm still healing, I'd rather not strain myself."

None of them believed her excuse. Not strain herself? That only made sense with normal people, not their risk-everything-to-stop-crime leader Jessica. Nobody bothered to say anything though. They were sure she had a reason.

"Okay then. Since we're free today, let's do something," Sooyoung suggested.

"Let's go karaoke!" Onew immediately shouted.

"We went to karaoke too many times. My voice is still hoarse from the other day. I suggest a good game of pool," Hyoyeon decided.

"There's a movie I wanted to watch though..."

With all the different suggestions flying out, it was hard to just choose one. Yuri clapped her hands loudly to get their attention.

"How about going to my place? My dad's not here anymore and it has everything you guys mentioned."

The crowd cheered at the idea. Even Tiffany was curious as to how luxurious her house was. Dragging one more person along, they headed off to Yuri's house.

~~~~~

It was huge. Yuri was not lying when she said her house had absolutely everything. They had spent most of the day toying around but it never got tiring. It was getting dark but none of them showed sign of stopping. Every one of them including Yoona was having fun.

"Hey anyone want more beer?" Yuri slurred as she made her way back into the living room.

"Yuri, I think you've drank too much," Hyoyeon said as she helped Yuri find the couch.

"What? This is absolutely nothing! I can handle a lot more than this! Let me get more!" Yuri staggered off the couch. She walked a few steps before tripping over her own feet and knocked into Sooyoung, who was inconveniently holding a plate with a piece of cake on it.

They both fell to the floor with Sooyoung cushioning Yuri.

"Owwww..."

The other's quickly stopped whatever they were doing to help the two.

"Yuri, are you alright?" Yoona asked rushing to lift Yuri off of Sooyoung.

"Oh yea, please ignore the one who's at the bottom," Sooyoung managed to choke out.

Yuri was completely dazed. She was stained by Sooyoung's cake and she barely had a clue as to what happened. Yoona hoisted Yuri up, putting one arm on her shoulder and holding her by the waist.

"I'm going to bring Yuri up to her room and tidy her up. She really did drink too much."

~~~~~

Yoona dropped Yuri on the luxurious bed. Yuri seemed to be asleep now. Yoona entered the bathroom and wetted a towel before returning to Yuri. She wiped Yuri's face clean from cake and removed her stained shirt before helping her into her sleeping clothes. Yoona looked at Yuri with worry and disapproval. Surely by this age Yuri should be able to take care of herself a bit better than this.

Yoona put down the towel on the dresser as she surveyed the room. It was big and grand, fashioned with antique furniture and had a lot of space. However, judging by the dust and lack of personal belongings, she doubted that Yuri had spent much time in it.

She walked around, stopping to admire the beautiful carved wooden desk when she noticed a piece of crumpled paper on it. She picked it up and unfurled it. There was a simple message handwritten on it.

"One more week," Yoona read outloud. What does that mean? Suddenly a pair of hands slammed the desk, making Yoona drop the piece of paper, terrified. Yuri was behind her and was so close that Yoona could feel her warmth on her back. Her arms and body trapped Yoona in between her and the desk. Yoona had no space to turn.

"Yuri?" she stammered.

"One more week..." Yuri breathed behind her, still drunk.

"What are you talking about? Are you sick?"

Yuri let out a derisive laugh.

"I wish I was."

Yuri spun Yoona around but still trapping her in between. Yoona stared at Yuri. She had never seen Yuri this drunk nor serious before in her life.

"I have never told anyone this but I want to tell you now. I've kept this in me for so many years, it's killing me. I love you Yoona. I love you so much it hurts."

Yuri wrapped her arms around her waist and pulled Yoona in, capturing her lips. Yoona pushed against her but Yuri held on tight. Yuri was becoming more and more aggressive, forcing entry. Yoona felt herself weaken. Her hands lost their grip on Yuri's shirt and her eyes slowly closed. Her arms were no longer pushing Yuri away but they slid over her shoulders instead. Yoona had never felt emotions run so strongly through her body before. They went wild and fired up her entire body. They were completely out of her control but it felt so right at the same time.

Yoona returned Yuri's kiss with equal passion, her fingers sliding through Yuri?s long dark hair. Yuri held her tightly, revealing the longing that she had hid for years. As Yoona kissed her back, her mind was troubled with questions. How did this girl always end up making Yoona more confused than she already was? Yoona thought she loved Jessica but every time she was with her, she couldn't help but ask herself. Did she love Jessica?

~~~~~

Since the host was now asleep and that Yoona was taking care of Yuri, the rest decided it was time to leave. Jessica drove her bike in silence with Tiffany behind her. She happened to be the one taking her home again, not that the others did not offer. Surprisingly, Tiffany did not feel as scared as the first time but was getting used to it. When they reached Tiffany's house, she did not feel queasy at all and stood firmly on the ground.

"I think I've gotten used to your bike!" Tiffany exclaimed cheerfully, jumping a few times to prove her words true.

"I think I'll be able to ride it without screaming next time. Then I'll be able to drive one myself and eventually I'll be able to drive faster than you can," she added optimistically.

Jessica was trying hard not to look amused but it was getting harder as she watched Tiffany. Tiffany waved goodbye and headed for the door, with keys in hand.

"Hey!"

Tiffany turned at her voice. Jessica was calling for her.

"Do you want to learn...how to ride one?" Jessica asked, trying to sound as cool as a leader should but failed miserably. Yuri's tips from ages ago were long forgotten.

Tiffany's blank face wasn't exactly what she had in mind when she said it. She stuttered to explain.

"Like...a...da...lesson. Yea something like that...I'll teach you...for free of course...and you can be my first...student?" How it ended up being a question even Jessica didn't know.

"A motorcycle? I was just kidding about beating you..." Tiffany answered dumbfounded.

"Ah...okay. Um...that's what I thought too...ha...my bad. Never mind then...I don't know what I'm saying," Jessica faltered. She tried to laugh it off but probably looked ridiculous. Her breakfast could do better that her. Jessica did a quick wave and returned to her vehicle. Right now she really wanted to bury herself underground or to jump off a mountain, or anything that would hide her face and never let it see light again. (although the author would be very sad if that were to ever happen T.T)

"But I still want to learn...but maybe something easier to start with?" Tiffany looked down at her shoes. Was she blushing?

Jessica's grin was now evident but luckily Tiffany could not see it. For some reason, she wanted to laugh out loud but passed it off as a cough. Finally composed, she faced Tiffany once more.

"I'll keep that in mind. Are you free tomorrow?" Jessica smile grew wider when she saw Tiffany nod.

"I'll meet you at noon at the nearby park."

Jessica watched as Tiffany open her door and entered her home. She was happy.

~~~~~

Tiffany stared wide eyed at the vehicle that Jessica came on. It was definitely not her usual stylish bike, more like its baby child. It even had a key chain on it

Jessica stopped on the field of grass and got off. Her old scooter still worked just fine. Sure it did not have any of her motorcycle's speed and it was getting a bit worn out but nonetheless, it drove.

"Tada, this was my very first bike. I bought this myself."

"I'm going to ride this thing?" Tiffany asked as her fingers examined the scooter.

"You better. I've went through great lengths to find this again."

Jessica grinned at Tiffany's astonished face. She pulled out a helmet and put it on Tiffany's head. Jessica dragged her and pushed her into driving position. She plopped herself behind her and was prepared to go.

"Drive."

"Eh? How am I supposed to know how to drive without ever riding it before?"

Jessica reached under Tiffany's arms to turn the key. She started pointing while explaining.

"Press here to start the scooter. Hear that sound? Yes that's supposed to happen."

Tiffany quickly ended her excited squeal.

"These are brakes, left being the back and right being the front wheel. That's the accelerator. Give it some gas. Then you steer. That's pretty much all there is to it."

Tiffany nodded to show her understanding. She took a deep breath and started the bike. Tiffany was determined to do well and not embarrass herself in front of Jessica. Finally the bike took off. It was amazing. Wind blew her hair back and she, Tiffany Hwang, was actually driving it. Tiffany let out a loud cheer. This was just so exciting!

"Tiffany...I can crawl faster than this."

~~~~~

"How did you like it?"

Tiffany just laughed out loud in response.

"It was so fun! After I manage to get pass crawling speed, I felt like I was flying!"

Tiffany continued to her blow by blow analysis of how her ride went when a soccer ball flew out of nowhere and hit her squarely in the head. Tiffany stopped her laugh midway and blinked. An older looking woman and a young boy came running.

"I'm so sorry for that! Peter, come here and apologize."

"I'm sorry. Please forgive me." the boy said, feeling bad that he hit her. Tiffany got up and picked up the ball before returning it to the little kid.

"It's alright. I forgive you," she finished with her eye smile and patted the boy's head. A smile drew on the boy's face. He thanked her and went away with his mom.

Tiffany dropped herself back down on the ground next to Jessica. Jessica watched the boy's back as he ran away to join his friends, as happy as ever.

"Why do people feel so happy when they are forgiven?" The question just popped out of Jessica's mouth without much thought. Tiffany pondered carefully as to how to answer it.

"Well, when people ask for forgiveness, it means that they feel sorry for what they have done. Whether it may be intentional or not, they feel that they have done something to hurt the other. They want to make up for it and they also want the other person to feel better. Being angry at someone actually hurts more that we think. It's probably just easier to forgive than to hold a grudge for life."

That sounded deep for a girl who just got hit hard in the head. It was such a simple concept. Everybody understood the reason why they apologize yet when it was their turn to receive one, it becomes so difficult. Jessica played with a leaf, deep in thought.

"Is it really possible to forgive someone so easily? How can one just forget everything that happened especially when it has been hurting you for years?"

"It's not about forgetting, Jessica. It's about accepting the fact that it already happened and moving on. If your father is truly sorry, maybe it's time to give him one more chance."

As to how Tiffany knew that it was her father, Jessica did not know but she felt Tiffany's hand over hers. Jessica glanced down at their hands before looking at her. Tiffany just smiled knowingly.

"Don't think too hard. It's actually quite easy. Here let me help."

Jessica looked at her surprised. How could she help her? Tiffany shifted from her position and with two fingers, one on each corner, forced Jessica to smile.

"Now say, I forgive you."

It was ridiculous how this crooked smile was Tiffany's solution but Jessica laughed out loud nonetheless. Her mood lifted instantly.

"That...is absolutely ridiculous, even coming from a mushroom like you."

Jessica lay herself down on the ground, hand underneath her head. Tiffany joined her so that they now lay side by side, staring up at the beautiful blue sky. Tiffany closed her eyes. Jessica sneaked a peek at the ever peaceful girl and grinned silently to herself. It was quiet with a slight breeze but they both enjoyed the time they had just peacefully in sync with nature and with each other.

~~~~~

Yuri woke up with a bad headache and found her body aching. She tried to move her arm but it was being held down by something. Yuri opened her eyes and realized that Yoona was sleeping on her bare arm and was very close to her.

S***!

Yuri lifted up the covers and sighed in relief. She was still clothed and so was Yoona. She didn't know how she would ever forgive herself if something like that happened while she was drunk but still...that thought wasn't all that comforting.

Yuri smacked herself on the forehead, trying her best to remember what had happened. Her mind drew a blank. She really needed to stop drinking so much. After face-palming herself a few times, she tried to slide her arm out from underneath Yoona without waking her up. Yoona shifted a bit from the movement and snuggled closer. Yuri gulped. This girl was really ruining her life. Did she even know how hard it was to restrain herself from getting too close? Right now, Yuri was literally trapped by Yoona because with both her head and leg over her, Yuri could not move a muscle.

Honestly, this girl sleeps a bit too comfortably here.

Instead of struggling to move, Yuri remained stationary as she studied Yoona carefully. She was still as beautiful as ever, from her pretty doe eyes to her soft skin. Yuri jumped a little when she heard Yoona snore. Yuri stifled a laugh. This girl had taken over a very big portion of her heart without even trying.

~Flashback~

"Hello, my name is Im Yoona. I will be working alongside all of you now. Please take care of me," she announced and bowed to all the WYE team members. Yuri could not look away from her, she was like an angel. While everyone else started to introduce themselves, Yuri just stared before immediately being grabbed onto by her collar.

"If you're thinking of doing anything inappropriate to her I will skin you alive and throw you off a plane and even after you're dead I will find a way to hunt you down again."

That was Jessica, as if anyone really needed help to figure that out but Yuri did not hear a single word. She had no such thoughts and never before had she been speechless in front of a girl before. Sooyoung dragged the new girl over and waited for Yuri to introduce herself. Nothing came out.

"She is currently unavailable right now. Please try your call again some other time," Hyoyeon joked.

"This nut-head here is second-in-command on our team and is known to be the biggest plarumph-"

Yuri quickly covered her mouth before Sooyoung could say anymore. For the first time, she did not want anyone to introduce her in that way. Yuri threw her aside.

"My name is Kwon Yuri."

"Nice to meet you. My name is Yoona."

~end~

Sadly, her reputation was leaked eventually and she soon realized that Yoona and Jessica had known each other from before. At times, she even found Yoona looking at Jessica the way she looked at her. Not nearly as oblivious as Jessica, Yuri understood why. However, she was in no position to fight because her life had too many complications and she did not want to drag Yoona in it. Yuri then approached her as a friend. It was the only thing that she could be to at least get to know her. Yuri kept her distance, continuing to hook up with other girls, convincing herself that she did not change, that she did not understand what loving someone really meant.

Yuri cleared the strands of hair away from Yoona's face and kissed her gently on her forehead and slowly down to her lips. Yoona stirred and Yuri hastily pretended to be asleep. Yoona woke up, slowly realizing that her leg was draped over the sleeping girl. Turning red, she pulled it off and soon after, she finally grasped the fact that she even drooled over Yuri's arm.

"What am I doing?!"

Yoona quickly wiped it clean and lifted herself up. Although Yuri was a little sad that Yoona was no longer next to her, the relief on her arm was welcomed. Yuri feigned stretching and sat up.

"Good morning," Yoona said quietly.

"Morning," Yuri answered groggily.

"How's your head? Does it hurt from yesterday's drinking?"

"Yea a bit..."

"Do you remember anything from last night?" she asked innocently.

"Huh? What happened?"

"Nothing."

"I'll go get something warm for you to drink," Yoona offered and was about to get off the bed but Yuri grabbed onto her hand, pulling her back down. Not knowing that she pulled a bit too hard, Yoona stumbled backwards into Yuri?s arms. Their faces were only a few inches apart and Yuri could not help but to get entranced by those eyes once again. Realizing what she was doing, Yuri quickly let go and pushed herself back.

"I'll just take a quick shower. Give me a few minutes," she mumbled. She left the bed and locked herself in the washroom. Once inside, she turned on the water and sprayed herself straight in the face.

"Wake up Yuri. You can't do this. You can't. If you do, I'll skin you alive and throw you off the plane myself."

Chapter Eleven

Jessica stood outside the building's meeting room and was impatiently waiting for Taeyeon to come out. Not only was Taeyeon in there but also her father. After long hours, Taeyeon finally came out, shutting the door behind her. Jessica rushed to ask her the question she had wanted to know for days.

"What's their decision?"

"They have agreed that during that time, the amount of evidence against Joseph Jung may not be sufficient enough to condemn him to a lifelong sentence. Joseph Jung has shared his true intentions for the drug and his side of the story. Because there are distributions of IoSeph right now without Joseph's involvement, the higher levels are starting to believe Joseph Jung and his thoughts of it being a setup."

"However," Taeyeon said before Jessica got the wrong idea. "Because nothing is confirmed and the fact that Joseph Jung did use illegal substance to create his drug still remains true, he will still need to stay in prison for the time being until we are certain that he has nothing to do with what's been happening now. They also agreed that you are the 'victim' after Joseph explained that he injected the drug inside you without your consent. That means that you are free to continue on your life with no record whatsoever."

After that long explanation, Jessica finally exhaled. At least they were giving him another chance. That was all she could ask for. The door suddenly opened again and the rest of the officers exited with Joseph Jung in handcuffs following behind. He looked surprised to see Jessica and quickly ducked his head, urging the guards holding him to move faster.

"Da...Joseph Jung."

Joseph Jung turned around slowly, praying that his ears were not deceiving him. His daughter was calling for him.

"I want to say something to you," Jessica said firmly. Taking several deep breaths and recalling what someone had told her to do, she lifted her head to look at him directly. Her mouth curved slightly into the smallest smile ever but it was a smile nonetheless.

"I forgive you."

~~~~~

Yoona was once again at WYE headquarters and was talking to Seohyun regarding some computer problems that her laptop had been currently experiencing.

"Hmm, have your laptop been used by anyone else other than you?"

Yoona shook her head.

"Knowing you Yoona unnie, the computer shouldn't be used for anything other than work. Right now, this computer seems rather strained from possibly unfamiliar programs or viruses but so far I haven't been able to find anything."

While Seohyun was explaining the different possibilities as to why her laptop was acting up, Yoona sneaked a peek at Yuri, who was studying the new information that Gyuri had sent her. It was clear that Yuri had forgotten about what happened the other day. Yuri treated her normally and Yoona played along. Perhaps staying as friends was the best thing to do at the moment.

Yuri looked up at the door when Jessica entered. Now that the whole team was present, it was time to make her announcement.

"Hey kids, come over for a second. I have something to tell all of you."

Curious, the others scuffled over. Yuri looked carefully at each of her team members. She was going to miss them.

"I know that we are still currently in the midst of cracking IoSeph but I have to say this anyways. I am sorry to say that I'm going to be resigning from the team and from the police force."

Her statement was met with shocked expressions, outbursts and tears but Yuri remained calm.

"Hey, hey, listen to me. I've been thinking about this for a long time and I'm going to be working for my father. I cleared it with Taeyeon a few days ago and she said she was sad but she's going to let me go."

More objections and tears.

"Why didn't you tell me this earlier?" Jessica demanded, her face now stern. Yuri just shook her head nonchalantly.

"It was just a matter of time as to when I quit. You can't really say that you didn't expect this to happen."

Jessica could not deny it.

"Oh come on now, I'm still around, you guys can still contact me all you want but maybe a bit later. I'm going to America for a while to visit my brother."

Yuri gave the rest of the team a quick hug and said a small goodbye. Yuri wanted her departure to be as quick as possible. She didn't think she could handle a few more minutes here before completely breaking down. Yuri went back to her desk and picked up the file from Gyuri. She approached Jessica one last time and handed it to her.

"This is for the leader. Take care of everyone for me. We all know how much they'll miss me and how WYE team will now be missing its E," Yuri said half serious, half joking. With one last salute to her leader, Yuri exited through the sliding doors.

While everyone was busy protesting, one person was silent on the side. Yoona did not understand why Yuri had to leave so suddenly. Was it because of that note she found on the table the other day? If so, then what was that note even about? Questions continued to come up and Yoona needed answers.

Yoona bolted down the stairs hoping to catch up with Yuri. Luckily, she reached the lobby to see that Yuri just coming out from the elevator. Yuri froze at the sight of Yoona panting before her.

"Why are you leaving?"

"I'm working for Kwon Enterprises and going to America," Yuri lied again. Yoona shook her head.

"Is it because of that note?" she asked. Yuri faked a confused look.

"What are you talking about? What note?"

"The note I found on your desk that night. The night you said...you loved me." Yoona finished. Yuri's departure forced a lot of questions but there was nothing that Yoona needed her to answer more than this one.

Yuri swallowed before answering slowly.

"You mean that night you guys were at my house? Yoona, I was drunk. I don't remember a thing and if I did say that..."

"So when you said that...you didn?t mean it?" Yoona asked softly, her heart breaking. She was scared of what Yuri would say.

"I don't remember anything about that but if I did do that, it doesn't mean much. I say 'I love you' to every girl I meet. I'm sorry if I hurt you Yoona but those words are meaningless when it comes out from me. Sorry about that. Hope we're still good friends. Call me."

On that note, Yuri gave Yoona a quick hug before leaving the building once and for all. Yoona did not move from her spot. Her head was looking downwards and tears fell to the floor. Minutes passed before someone came and held Yoona in her arms. Yoona continued to cry over the girl's shoulder.

Jessica held her for as long as Yoona needed her. She had always guessed that Yoona was hiding something and now it was obvious. Yoona's feelings for Yuri were not out of gratefulness like what she felt for Jessica but rather something that only her heart could develop. How Jessica wished that Yuri would stop lying because not only were Yuri's actions hurting the girl that she had once loved, Yuri was breaking her own heart as well.

~~~~~

Yuri quickly entered the luxurious car waiting for her outside the police headquarters. The driver was unfamiliar but was young with short whitish blonde hair and was with no doubt working for her father. He twisted from the driver's seat to look at the heiress to introduce himself with his soft voice.

"Hello, my name is Hero Jaejoong. I will be working for you from now on. I'm in charge of your safety and will be working along you fro-"

He stopped short when he noticed something about the girl. She was not paying a single bit of attention to him but was crying uncontrollably. Jaejoong turned back to the front and started the engine. The car went on the road and headed for their destination. Every now and then Jaejoong would look in the rear mirror only to find that Yuri was no longer crying loudly but staring blankly at the window, tears trailing silently down her cheeks. He suddenly developed a feeling of emptiness and wondered why she had caused him to sadden as well.

He shook his head. This familiarity with the girl confused him as he drove on in the now dismal night.

~~~~~

The giant gate of the warehouse opened to reveal the two that Mr. Kwon had been waiting for. He smiled at the thought that he finally had his daughter working for him.

"I'm surprised. You are actually early," he said. While Jaejoong bowed, Yuri crossed her arms.

"I thought I was doing business, not some junk organizing," she commented. The warehouse was filled with wooden crates of different shape and sizes stacked up to five levels.

"This is business, just not one that appear to the public. Surely you don't expect me to give my daughter something petty. A mall? Broadcast station? Supermarket? Those are hardly worthy of our attention."

True. Yuri didn't expect anything of that sort but she prayed. It was not like she didn't know that her father was doing illegal transactions but she did not want to be involved in it. Mr. Kwon gestured the two to follow and ordered one of his henchmen to open the nearest crate.

The henchman nodded quickly, and unlocked the box. In it were typical merchandises that seemed to be set to be delivered to one of their many businesses. Yuri breathed slowly behind her father. It couldn?t be this simple. The man dove even further, underneath the ordinary material. His hand clasped on what he was looking for and pulled it out.

Yuri gasped. Mr. Kwon on the other hand took it from his worker. The weapon looked sleek and lethal, something that even Yuri had to admire. Mr. Kwon took the weapon, took aim at a random crate and pulled the trigger. The hole was clean and the bullet traveled further than expected. Two crates behind were now marked with identical bullet holes. Mr. Kwon was quite happy with his new toy. He lifted it up once again, now aiming at the worker that he previously ordered. The man was petrified.

"Let's see how it would work on our intended targets."

Yuri put her hand on the weapon to stop him and her other instinctively grabbed for something on her side but her gun was missing. Jaejoong must have taken it without her noticing. Mr. Kwon chuckled and lowered his gun.

"You are no longer an officer Yuri. You need to get used to it."

Yuri flinched. Before she could even ask as to what he had on his mind, Mr. Kwon halted her with his hand.

"I will talk about it soon enough but first, I need to show you something else. I have been supporting a very worthy cause lately and I would like your participation."

Mr. Kwon smiled dangerously as he led Yuri and Jaejoong into a corner that was hidden by even more crates. Mr. Kwon pressed his thumb on a device and it responded diligently by revealing a hidden staircase down. They headed down together and Yuri was shocked.

It was like a giant lab yet it also seemed like an assembly line at a factory, cold with wisps of gas everywhere and with a lot of workers. The finished product was sent to the very end of the lab where they were carefully bottled and placed inside a case. It dawned to her quickly.

Yuri grabbed her father's collar and pushed him to the wall.

"It was you!" she hissed. Several people came pulling her back from Mr. Kwon. Yuri knocked over a few of her pursuers but was caught in the end by one very tall male. Mr. Kwon smoothed his clothes.

"No, I merely fund the operation and reap from its benefits."

"You *******!"

"I think it's time you meet the man behind this," Mr. Kwon said. A man in a white lab coat approached. Even without introductions, Yuri knew who he was.

"Yuri, meet Simeon." The man bowed gracefully. Yuri's anger was visible as she clenched her fist tighter. She then glared at her smug father.

"Don't you even dare hope that I'll help you run this business for you."

"You of course will do no such thing. I need your help for one very specific purpose. I don't need you to get any deeper than what you know now. I do need you however to infiltrate police headquarters. You know that place so well, it only makes sense to ask you to do this."

Yuri twisted out of the man's restraint and lunged for her father. More guards blocked her way. Yuri quickly pushed pass the guards and raised her fist, hitting her father in the nose. Related or not, no way was she going to work for such scum.

"There's no way in hell will I ever do that!"

Yuri was preparing for her second punch when something hard hit her squarely on the back causing her to bow down to her father.

Mr. Kwon looked like he just ate something sour, his face scrunched up from the pain. He knelt down next to the Yuri.

"Why do you assume you have a choice? Have I not made myself clear? Choose now. Do what I say or I'll kill your brother in less than a second."

"He's your son!" she screamed. The man nodded in agreement.

"Yes he is and I plan to treat him well as long as you do what I say but I have to say he's my second priority. I have money but now I want power. What Simeon promised me can bring me more than I can imagine. In return we should do what he wants right?"

Simeon chuckled lightly and stated his conditions.

"Retrieve the case containing IoSeph we've lost and free Damian. I also want Joseph Jung freed as well. I need him. After that's done, everything will simply fall in place for our precious law-enforcers."

Yuri lost all will to struggle away from them.

"I'm not going to do it."

Suddenly, someone hit her hard in the head. Yuri could no longer hold on to her consciousness. She crumpled to the floor.

"But you are my dear, whether you want to or not."

~~~~~

The next day, Jessica had received a sudden call from headquarters which cut Tiffany's motorcycle lesson short. Together they rushed back and surprisingly found Taeyeon, Sunny, Yoona, Gyuri and the rest of KARA team also at WYE headquarters. Something serious must have occurred.

"What happened?" Jessica demanded. The call was not very informative, only telling her to rush back which she did with no hesitation.

Taeyeon cleared her throat. Instead of speaking to Jessica solely, she spoke to everyone present.

"Last night a serious breach occurred," she said gravely. "The prison was broken into and the offender freed Damian. Where Joseph Jung was originally at was also infiltrated but because he has been relocated to another place, Joseph Jung is still in custody. Not only that, the case that we acquired before from our mission had also been stolen. They took IoSeph."

Tiffany's mouth dropped open. How could something like that happen?

"But surely these places can only be accessed by our officers," she reasoned. Taeyeon nodded at her words. That was the most troubling part.

Jessica was thinking hard. The prison was guarded much more seriously than the usual ones for it contained the most threatening and dangerous convicts. It was guarded 24/7 and also installed with the best security system. There was no way that such an escape was made without them knowing the second it happened, let alone a whole night. Where they had kept IoSeph was an even more troubling matter. While the prison was at least known to all police personnel, the safe in which IoSeph was kept was only revealed to very limited people and even fewer held the key in opening it.

"I know this is very hard to take in. I haven't seen such an outstanding breach in all the years I've worked here. I think you have all concluded on one thing since these are highly protected areas so I don't need to explain it anymore. Our system has been hacked and access has been granted too easily. We can conclude that the one who did this had to be very familiar with the ways we run things and has been working on this case."

Taeyeon looked at Sunny, Gyuri and Jessica meaningfully. The team leaders and head of forensic department nodded in understanding.

"I hope that this will be solved very soon. Return to your work but remember, things are much more serious than before now."

On that final note, Taeyeon and others that did not belong in the WYE team headed out. Gyuri remained slightly longer and met Jessica's stare. Trust had never been an issue before but now, things had changed overnight. Uncertainties were buzzing silently in the air, taking control of every single person that was present. Each teams' leader was slowly revealing their biases. Gyuri gave her one last look before taking her leave.

Jessica didn't like the sound of this. She did not want to assume that any of her co-workers were involved but it was too obvious to ignore. A traitor was among them.

Chapter Twelve

The setting she woke up to was unfamiliar. Yuri blinked a few times and found herself in a large room. She groaned in pain as she lifted herself up, lifting her pillow behind her to lean on. Her memories were seriously a blur.

Yuri flinched when she heard a knock on her door and was prepared for a fight. Yuri dropped her fist when she noticed that it was Jaejoong that entered the room with a tray of food.

"Good afternoon, Ms. Kwon. You should be hungry after two days of sleep. I've brought food."

Two days? Who was that brute that hit her? Yuri would get her revenge on that guy if it was the last thing she'd do. Right now however, Jaejoong's soft voice calmed her and it was true that she was hungry. Yuri walked over to the grand table inside her room and sat, surveying the boring meal in front of her.

Nothing like porridge to cheer up someone's day...

Yuri thought that her life from now on would equal to a prisoner but surely her food could be less like it was from prison. She sipped a bit off her spoon and made a face. It was burnt. She pushed it aside. With the bowl out of the way, she noticed a small lollipop behind it. Noticing Yuri pick it up with a weird smile on her face, Jaejoong hurried to explain.

"I'm sorry I put it there. It's so embarrassing. There was no one to cook so I had to make something and the only thing I know how to make is porridge and even so it's burnt. I really can't make anything else so I stuck it there but I shouldn't even have done that. You probably don't even like sweets."

He finally stopped to take a break from his rambling.

"I'll just take it away." He reached for the lollipop in Yuri?s hand but Yuri clutched onto it tightly.

"No. I really like this. I haven't seen this brand Kissing You since I was young. You even managed to get my favourite flavor."

Jaejoong laughed in relief.

"I really like this too. My mother always bought it for me when I was young. This brand is really hard to find since they no longer sell it in stores around here but I finally found it after a long times search."

Yuri just nodded.

"Did my father have anything to say to me?"

"He says you have done your purpose. He tells you to meet with him in his office a few days later but he says that you may leave the house as long as you are with me."

"Are you serious? That makes no sense." What did she do?

Jaejoong nodded. He returned all of Yuri?s belongings to her. Her phone was of course taken but everything else was still present.

"I can really go out?"

Yuri looked suspiciously at him.

"There's no way my father is that generous. What does he want?"

Jaejoong answered quickly.

"Nothing. I guess he just wanted you to stop fighting with him. He's only allowing you to do this because I guaranteed him that you would not contact anyone and to lie low. If you don't follow these conditions...he said he's going to punish me."

Yuri softened after realizing that he was trying to help her feel better. Obviously punishment meant more than a good beating. Though it was her best and probably only way to escape, she could not put someone's life at risk. At times like these, it should not have been curiosity that killed the cat but rather nobility.

"Thank you, Jaejoong. I won't contact anyone."

Jaejoong smiled weakly. He hated lying. It was not he who asked her father to let her out. Her father decided that all by himself or someone did. Jaejoong had nothing to do with it.

~~~~~~

Though it was getting late, Seohyun was working silently to find the traitor. Although the prison break was a heavy matter, the theft of IoSeph within this very building was a scarier thought. The system that ran the building was not as complicated as people believed it to be but because outsiders did not know that, they often perform unnecessary actions that will lead to their capture. Insiders however were a different matter.

Seohyun thought logically. To retrieve the drug, the culprit must have at least passed through certain areas monitored carefully by cameras and guards. Also they must show identification such as a fingerprint scans and card registrations. Due to security issues, the building's system does not allow anything to be erased and if forced to, it will take note immediately. Knowing that, the hacker created numerous obstacles and a block within the time period of the theft, preventing Seohyun from retrieving the information she needed.

She sighed. It was going to be a long night. Seohyun tapped her fingers rapidly, inputting what most people would think was nonsense but in fact, she was tearing down each obstacle one by one. It was odd because if it truly was a member inside the building that did this, the person should know of its system as well as the fact that WYE team had an experienced hacker with skills that surpass all these barriers. Another thing was that the block was a clear indication of when the theft occurred. Why would anyone do that?

~~~~~~~

"The only people that knew where IoSeph was stored are you, me and the heads that were involved in this case meaning Sunny, Gyuri and Taeyeon."

Yoona nodded in agreement when Jessica went through the main suspects again but she could hardly believe that any of those people she listed would do such a thing. Jessica understood Yoona's doubts.

"Yes I know. It just seems impossible for one of these people to do this but because of our status and involvement, it makes the most sense."

Jessica took a sip from her cup and this time it was not urine. They were in Yoona's lab once again but to be on the safe side, Jessica had water. Yoona did not touch her drink at all. She looked so downcast and confused by everything that happened recently and it was obvious to Jessica that something was bothering Yoona.

"Are you still thinking of Yuri?" she asked. Yoona flinched and responded quickly.

"What? No! I'm just thinking about the case that's all. It's nothing. I'm fine."

"I don't remember you ever being able to lie successfully to me," Jessica said, crossing her arms. Yoona just looked down like a child getting scolded. Jessica pulled her chair closer.

"Yoona look at me."

Yoona lifted her head back up. Up close, Jessica still managed to make her nervous.

"Do you like Yuri?" Jessica asked quietly. No answer.

"Do you love her?"

"I...I don't know."

Yoona got off her seat and walked away from Jessica?s stare. Her confusion started when she entered the workforce. She had carried her crush for Jessica for two years from university to her new found job. It was so simple being in love back then. When she met Yuri however, it turned ridiculously messy. For Yuri, she felt everything imaginable and not just pleasant feelings either. Confusion, irritation and almost anger at Yuri's actions but at the same time, she was making her heart race like never before.

Immersed in her thoughts, Yoona did not notice Jessica behind her. The older cupped her face with her hand and turned Yoona around to face her.

"Do you love me?"

Yoona could only stare. Her mind cried yes but she couldn't respond. Words just failed her today.

"Kiss me."

Jessica's hand slid from her face to wrap around her waist. She slowly shortened the gap between them. Yoona did not understand what she wanted. Images of her, Jessica and Yuri were flashing inside her mind, until it finally landed on the memory when Yuri confessed to her, when they held onto each other. Yoona squeezed her eyes shut.

Jessica stopped and shifted away just a second before their lips could meet. She let out a soft chuckle and backed away, stretching her arms high up in the air before letting it drop back to her side. Yoona felt Jessica?s presence move away from her and she opened her eyes. Jessica was smiling at her.

"You're not confused. You know who you like. You know, I've wondered for awhile who that person was. Now I know for sure," Jessica said, more to herself than to Yoona.

"I felt a difference over the years. That difference between gratitude, friendship and love. I'm sure you felt it too. I guess I'm just not that person," Jessica chuckled. Yoona felt just more confused by her words.

"It doesn't make sense. Jessica, I had a crush on you since forever. I admire you, I respect you. I think you're amazing in every way and a miracle. There's nothing I don't like about you. Being around you makes me feel happy and safe. With Yuri, it's a complete mess. I don't know how to describe it. If this is how I feel then why isn't the person I love you?? Yoona asked, completely lost.

"Love...isn't like that. Maybe it's just me but if love was as simple as that then I wouldn't call it love. To me, love isn't all positive feelings. It's everything, flaws and all. Love is weird, hard to explain, it's supposed to be confusing," Jessica mused and then shrugged.

"But what do I know? I'm an idiot that can't express myself properly when it comes to this, missing my chance every now and then. I'm hopeless myself but I'm sure you can do a better job. You're much smarter than me. You will figure it out."

Jessica then patted her own bangs in embarrassment.

"Maybe I?m not as oblivious as Yuri says I am..." she said to herself hopefully. Jessica turned to look at Yoona meaningfully.

"When Yuri comes back to Korea, you should tell her how you feel. Regardless of how many times Yuri lied, she's been waiting for an answer for a long time. Do me a favour and knock some sense into her stupid head."

Jessica put up her trademark 'Okay' with her fingers before turning on her heel, leaving Yoona alone in her lab. She walked silently in the hallway heading to elevator, her hands in her jean pockets. She let out a deep sigh, relieving some weight off her shoulders. Some things you just had to give up but if it was for someone you care, then it would be worth it.

Chapter Thirteen

Tiffany was on the couch in WYE headquarters and was waiting for Seohyun for news but had fallen asleep during her wait. The girl surveying her noticed how Tiffany was shivering in her sleep. A blanket fell over her and Tiffany shifted. Tiffany's eyes opened to see a familiar face.

"Sorry for waking you."

"No, it's alright. I should not be asleep here anyways."

The blonde girl raised a brow.

"No, you should be at home sleeping."

"Seohyun is not finished yet though and I feel bad for leaving her alone in the office," Tiffany replied as she stole a glance at the hard working girl and her bewildered face. Maybe it was harder than she thought.

"Hmm, then I'll wait here with you. Seohyun, fighting!" Jessica called across the room.

"Okay!" she called back.

Tiffany freed some space next to her for Jessica to sit. She had thought Jessica left a long time ago.

"I thought you already left."

"I stayed around to clear something that had been on my mind for awhile and hopefully cleared up some confusion for her as well."

"Ooooh, judging by your expression, it's not about the case," Tiffany said playfully while poking her leader on the cheek. As to what gave Tiffany the guts to do that, only the heavens would know but Jessica did not mind a bit. Her mood lightened every time Tiffany was around. Perhaps it was Tiffany's cheerful self that brought light to even the darkest times. Jessica liked that feeling. She poked her back and discovered that Tiffany was amazingly ticklish.

"Shhh...you're distracting Seohyun with that squeal of yours," Jessica whispered.

Tiffany sealed her lips and hugged herself in response. It was still very cold in the room. Jessica picked up the fallen blanket and draped it over the Tiffany's shoulders. Jessica wrapped her arms around the surprised mushroom from behind, and closed her hands on top of Tiffany's.

"Is that better?" Jessica asked over her shoulder.

Tiffany just nodded shyly. The awkward hug made her nervous. It didn't last too long when they heard a loud gasp escape from Seohyun. Just minutes ago, Seohyun had broken through all the obstacles and barriers that blocked her from retrieving the fingerprint scan. After she attained the information, she allowed a program to run though every agent's information, waiting for a match in fingerprint and the result shocked her.

"What is it, Seohyun?" Jessica asked. Seohyun was speechless. She just pointed at the screen. Jessica grabbed the monitor with both hands. The picture was taken a while ago but it was still her.

"It's Yuri unnie."

~~~~~~~

"So it's her, Kwon Yuri, ex-member of the WYE team," Gyuri explained with extra emphasis on the ex and the WYE. Gyuri, Sunny, Yoona and Jessica were all inside Taeyeon's office the following morning, discussing their recent discovery.

"This can't be right. If it really was her then she wouldn't even have participated in our mission to get Damian," Jessica tried to convince the others but it was not very effective. Gyuri was not impressed.

"At that time, there's a chance that she was stationed here for other purposes, meaning that she had no choice but to work with us. However, let's just stick to the theft right now. Don't you think it is odd that she quits just days before it happened? It's as if she knew that she was going to break in and wanted to get away from us as quickly as possible."

"The request was rather sudden...what Gyuri said is possible," Taeyeon reasoned. "Sunny, are you sure that Yuri knew of where IoSeph was stored?"

Sunny nodded. Both Yoona and Jessica were surprised to hear the news.

"When Jessica was hurt, Yuri had temporarily taken over the position as leader and because of this, I told her about it. I didn't think much on it because Yuri was...well, Yuri."

"Did Yuri ask for you to tell her?" Yoona confronted immediately.

"Well, no but I felt that as team leader, even if it's temporary, she should be authorized. Again, it was supposed to be temporary-"

"-meaning that she couldn't have accessed it after I returned," Jessica declared, cutting Sunny's explanation short. Gyuri shook her head.

"It's true that our system has been adjusted again after your return but you're forgetting one very important part. Our system was infiltrated by a hacker that assisted in this crime. Because Yuri was at least once authorized, it would've been a lot easier for that hacker to retrieve that information and reprogram our security system."

"Yuri left for America that day for god's sake!" Yoona said exasperated.

"No she didn't," Gyuri answered simply.

"What makes you so sure?" Yoona argued.

Gyuri threw a folder onto the desk and Jessica quickly picked it up.

"Because my team specializes in collecting data and every piece of it is telling me that the culprit is Yuri. These are Kwon Yuri's records of transactions and photos of her still in Korea. Kwon Yuri is with no doubt still here."

Jessica could not believe it. She was so sure that Yuri had nothing to do with it but every piece of evidence was pointing in her direction. Jessica could recognize her anywhere, even if she was trying to disguise herself in that photo. This was solid proof. Why did she lie to her?

Something clicked inside Yoona's mind but she did not say anything. Timing and confirmation was more important than anything she could offer right now. Taeyeon took the silence as the end of the heated discussion. Taeyeon headed back and sat down behind her desk.

"Because of all the evidence, Kwon Yuri must be detained. Whether or not she is guilty we will eventually find out when we question her. Jessica, tell Seohyun to get on the hacker next. It might greatly affect the case. You are all dismissed and I hope that nobody will let their personal feelings overtake their better judgment during the course of this case."

Yoona and Jessica quickly exited. The message was said to be intended for everyone but it was too obvious that Taeyeon was speaking directly to the both of them.

~~~~~~~

On the other side, the atmosphere was completely different. To be honest, it could be described as laughable to others but absolutely violent for Onew.

"Tell me already or I'm going to strangle you!" Sooyoung screamed. She was holding Onew by the collar and shaking him. The rest of them were just as curious but was less aggressive. Hyoyeon quickly pulled Sooyoung back and Onew dropped to his chair, face burning red.

"Oppa, can you just tell us please before Sooyoung unnie strangles you?" Seohyun asked innocently with her twinkling eyes. Onew sighed in defeat. If he didn't answer them now, he doubted that he would even be able to make it on Saturday.

"I'm going on a date this weekend," he said so quietly that it was hard to hear but somehow everyone did.

"OMG!"

"Really? That's so cute!" Tiffany cooed.

"That was the big secret?" Sooyoung scoffed but pulled her chair in closer. "Talk to me, I'm an expert-"

"-in drama watching," Hyoyeon muttered under her breath. As the only male in the group, he was bound to get some attention.

"Who's the girl?"

He muttered something but this time they didn't catch it.

"What was that?"

"Luna...f(x) Luna..."

One of them squealed.

"I know her. She's the one that works down at f(x) cafe across the street. Is that why you've grown to like coffee?"

Onew blushed even more but the girls were all quite content with this piece of information. Sooyoung cleared her throat.

"Let me teach you the must-do in dates, oh young one."

"Unnie, Onew oppa is older than you."

"Details, no one really cares about them anyways. Okay, first step is to dress nicely and look smart. Maybe even wash your car, tidy up the stuff in there."

Sooyoung paused to let Onew copy her tips down in his notebook.

"Of course as the male of the relationship, you must pick her up at her house. It's most effective if you got a bouquet of flowers too. That would totally melt a girl's heart. When you guys go to whatever destination you are planning on going, make sure you have her favourite artist's song playing during the ride. Then she'll be like 'You listen to them too? Wow, we are a perfect match!' and you're off to a good start."

"I doubt she would say that," Hyoyeon reasoned and was smacked in the head. Sooyoung did not like to be interrupted in her fantasies.

"Just make sure you add in some skinship. A very good destination for that would be a haunted house. Or you guys can go to the beach and you will serenade her in the sunset. Ahhhh, when will the person I like do that?" she squealed as she cupped her face with her hands, completely drowning in her imagination.

Tiffany decided to add in her own comment but whispered it so Sooyoung wouldn't hear.

"The most important thing is to be yourself. It doesn't really matter where you take her as long as you guys spend it together."

Onew nodded in comprehension. He liked Tiffany's suggestion a lot better. Their impromptu meeting came to an end when Jessica and Yoona entered with a grave expression on their faces. Jessica's eyes made contact with Tiffany and the rest of the team, signaling all of them to come.

"I have some bad news. Yuri is now wanted by the police."

"What? Why?" Hyoyeon questioned and Seohyun answered her.

"Yesterday night I've cracked through all the blocks and I retrieved the finger print scan of the culprit. It was Yuri unnie's."

Everyone was stunned by this information and their expressions showed it.

"I know what you are all thinking but we have enough evidence to believe that Yuri has something to do with it. Yuri is the greatest suspect. Yuri being the culprit means that she is involved with the operations of IoSeph. If we encounter her during our investigation, we will have to arrest her," Jessica stated firmly.

The room was silent until Sooyoung decided to break it.

"Jessica, stop it. There has to be a mistake somewhere. It can't be Yuri. You don't believe in this do you?"

Though silent, Yoona understood the pain going through every one of them. Their hearts simply didn't want to believe it that their team member and friend would do such a thing.

"Whether I believe it is Yuri or not, it doesn't matter. If she did something wrong then it's our job to capture the one who poses a threat to us," Jessica said harshly. "Go back to work. That's all I have to say."

The group was slightly unnerved by Jessica's solid stance. Yuri was after all her best friend yet she was firm. Jessica's stubborn nature was hard to change. What was wrong was wrong and that was all there was to it.

When the crowd dispersed, Yoona tugged gently onto Seohyun's arm. The maknae looked at her curiously.

"Seohyun can I ask you to do me a favour?"

The maknae quickly nodded.

"I know you are currently looking for the hacker but can you do this first? This is very important."

Yoona whispered something into Seohyun's ears and the young girl?s eyes widened.

"Are you sure this is okay?"

Yoona gave a firm nod and Seohyun understood. She hurried back to her computer. On the other side, Jessica approached the window and looked down on the city underneath. Yuri was still here.

"Are you okay?" a voice asked and Jessica recognized it to be Tiffany's.

"I don't know...everything is looking really bad for her. Her contact information was bogus. She hasn't contacted me at all since she left. It's like she disappeared but when I finally hear about her again, it's this."

Yuri had left the team but now it was Jessica's job to bring her back for a reason that Jessica did not want to face. Silently, Tiffany took Jessica's hand into her own. Jessica jerked away from the window and turned to face Tiffany. Once again, Jessica found herself locked in her gaze and that odd feeling erupted again. Tiffany's smile always managed to have an effect on her.

"Don't worry about it. We know that Yuri is innocent. Everything will turn out alright," Tiffany said gently.

"I don't want it to be her either but if it really is, I won't let her get away with it."

Chapter Fourteen

When everyone finally left, Yoona sat down next to Seohyun, waiting for answers.

“Here you go unnie. I hacked into Gyuri unnie’s computer and found the information about Yuri unnie. To be honest, everything that she found about Yuri unnie such as her records and the system’s information was not done by her team members but was sent to her. And there's even some extra information on Yuri unnie that has been sitting there for quite some time.”

“Sent?” Yoona repeated. That means her suspicion was valid. She had wondered. How was it possible to get such thorough information the second Seohyun revealed that the fingerprint belonged to Yuri’s? And there was more?

“Do you know who sent it?”

Seohyun shook her head.

“I don’t know but even though it’s not from a person we know, the information that the person sent is real. I’ve double checked it again and I haven’t found fault in it yet.”

“Doesn’t make the person any more trustworthy!” she exploded. “What if it’s all a trick? Either way, Gyuri lied to us. That just adds suspicion to whoever sent it!“

“What if Gyuri unnie is hiding something from us?” Seohyun asked quietly. Their eyes met and the conversation ended in silence.

“Could it be that source she keeps mentioning?” the hacker suggested quietly. Yoona didn’t know. It was true that whenever Gyuri presented them with information, she never mentioned who exactly got it for her. As to why Gyuri had so much information on Yuri was also another question that troubled her.

“Listen Seohyun. Don’t mention this to anyone alright? I need to confirm this myself before we jump to conclusions. I need to talk to her. I need to get myself some answers.”

~~~~~~~~

"You think she's going to die from the limited sleep she's been getting lately?" Sooyoung whispered. Hyoyeon nodded sadly.

"I think this may be a record. I mean we all knew she works like a machine when it comes to serious cases but she still somehow manages to squeeze in some time for sleep. I heard she once drove her motorcycle with her eyes closed. Bumped into the car in front of her but the guy didn't press charges because of her glare."

Sooyoung and Hyoyeon were worried for their leader. Ever since they determined Yuri as the culprit, Jessica had been working non-stop. Jessica had taken the initiative to arrest several more druggies and other people that were distributing the drug, hoping to squeeze some information out of them. They were either clueless about the operations or the drug had addled their brains so they were unable to say anything useful. The lack of progress made Jessica even more frustrated.

Jessica's impatience was getting worse and worse as the twelfth man slurred his words as if he was drunk. IoSeph had an interesting effect on this one. Jessica had been in the interrogation rooms for hours now. Not one of the people she caught had said anything useful.

"Where did you get the drug from? Who told you to distribute it?" she demanded again. The man hiccuped, drawing something in the air with his finger. Jessica could not make out what he was doing. It seemed as if he was trying to say something but it was difficult to make out. Jessica knew she would not be able to get anything out of him.

"Do you know of a person called Kwon Yuri?" she asked her last question. The man rolled his head as if thinking.

"Kwon Hyukjun, hehe," he blurted out and Jessica was taken aback by the sudden clarity of words although he still looked a bit insane. That name belonged to Yuri's brother. His fingers curled with only his index and thumb was sticking out. His hand was shaped to represent a gun.

"Bang bang!"

~~~~~~~~

As promised, Jaejoong led Yuri to Mr. Kwon’s office and told her to wait outside in the waiting area. To their surprise there was already someone sitting there, hastily tapping on her keyboard. Yuri looked at her curiously.Jaejoong cleared his throat to get her attention again.

“Mr. Kwon is in a meeting right now. Apparently the people are very ‘important’. Guess we just have to wait.”

Yuri nodded impatiently. She suddenly heard something that made her ears perk up. The stranger’s tapping quickened as if something was within reach. Jaejoong however, noticed nothing.

“Get me something to drink would you?” Yuri quickly demanded.

“Any preferences?”

“Something hot would be nice.”

And from some place far far away.

Jaejoong abided and left her waiting by herself. Yuri continued her inspection without interruption now that Jaejoong was gone. Judging by the fact that the girl was even allowed to be on this floor, she must be a rather important person in her father's operations. Yuri edged closer to a corner where she could see the screen of the laptop. Yuri frowned, not quite understanding exactly what she was doing. It was nothing but a black screen with a lot of white text speeding upwards.

The girl was obviously hacking for it looked too similar to what Yuri saw on Seohyun’s screen. She had short hair and seemed to be even younger than Yuri but was entirely focused on her work. She barely noticed Yuri take a seat next to her.

Yuri saw her face slowly split into a smile. Whatever she was working on, she had succeeded. The triumphant smirk made Yuri slightly uneasy.

Nicole closed her laptop and turned to face Yuri. This was something that Yuri was not expecting. It put Yuri slightly on the edge at her stare, something that no girl had managed to do before.

“What’s your name?” Yuri said casually, pretending that she was up to her usual womanizer tactics instead of getting caught looking at her screen. She leaned closer to the shorter waiting for an answer.

“My name is Nicole. I work for your father. You are Kwon Yuri.”

“Yes I am.”

Nicole smirked closing the laptop shut before dragging her to a secluded corner. Yuri raised a brow.

Talk about eager...

Nicole had no such thought. She checked again for onlookers so that they would not be overheard.

“You are wanted by the police,” she said simply.

“What?!?” she exclaimed but was quickly told to shut up.

"Someone stole IoSeph from police headquarters," she explained watching Yuri's mouth drop open. " I made it so that the person is you."

Yuri gaped at her.

What the...?

"What are you talking about?"

"I replaced your fingerprint with the person who really did steal IoSeph. Now the police believe that it was you who infiltrated the headquarters. All I had to do was input simple blocks, leave a time slot, add some more information and you’re caught. Simple but quite effective.”

Yuri took a while to let the information sink in. She was wanted by the police for something she had not done?

Yuri grabbed onto her collar, pushing her to the wall. Nicole's expression remained unfazed.

"Why did you do this?" she growled, her anger rising beyond her control. Nicole didn't respond immediately, knowing that Yuri wanted the answer all too much.

"I will explain to you after you agree to work with me."

Yuri let a derisive laugh, absolutely hating how Nicole was playing with her.

"You made me a criminal and you want me to work with you without a reason?" she hissed. "Go tell my father that doing framing me won't make me work for him. I'd rather go into jail for something I haven't done than live on knowing I'm doing the same despicable thing you are: working for him."

Nicole's confident expression was replaced with a frown at that statement. Before Yuri could even react, Nicole shoved her roughly backwards freeing herself from Yuri's grasp.

"For your information, I don't work for him. Let's just say I'm working beside him at the moment," Nicole said, with a tone that illustrated her disgust. "However, we do have similar requests for you."

Yuri looked at her incredulously. Why in the world was she even talking to the person who basically made her illegal let alone listen to her orders?

"You want me to work for him too? Then why don't I just take up his offer instead of yours when it all ends up being the same damn thing?"

Nicole shook her head impatiently.

"I want you in for a different reason. I can't explain everything in detail right now but just know that I want to take down this corporation just as much as you do. If you can get close to him then we will actually stand a chance of doing exactly that. We can stop IoSeph from spreading," Nicole explained hastily.

"There's no way he's going to trust me," Yuri retaliated. "And I'm not going to do what he wants me to so that he will. Not to mention he already has IoSeph. He doesn't even need me anymore!"

"He doesn't have IoSeph," Nicole stated calmly. The simplicity and certainty of her reply shook Yuri and confused her.

"But you just said-"

"IoSeph was indeed stolen by someone but not by Mr.Kwon or his people. Even today he is still planning on convincing you to steal it for him. I am the hacker and the real thief is on my side. Everything was planned but by us. We have IoSeph."

"You were the one that did this? Why?" Yuri demanded. Her trust for Nicole was still very limited.

Nicole sighed, realizing that Yuri would not trust her unless she told Yuri her reasons.

"We wanted to retrieve something that only Mr. Kwon and Simeon have for months but we haven't succeeded yet. It's difficult to gain any more information from them even in my position. His determination to make you work for him however made us realize that the only person that could carry our plan through and get close enough to him was you but your relationship with your father doesn't exactly scream out trust," she said dully. "And he knows it. Even if you agreed, he will still be suspicious until he knows for sure that there's no way you can back out."

Nicole crossed her arms, preparing for a longer story.

"It was convenient to us that the WYE team had attained IoSeph from Damian and it was obvious that your father would want it back. While Simeon wanted Joseph, your father is clearly a business man and what WYE team took was money, something he would not let pass, not when he had the resource to get it back," Nicole explained inclining her head to Yuri, indicating that Yuri was the 'resource' she was talking about.

"We used this to our advantage. We knew you wouldn't abide to your father's commands no matter how hard he tried so we did it ourselves. We stole IoSeph from the headquarters, replaced the thief's fingerprint with yours and sent orders to Jaejoong, although he had no idea who it was from, to take you outside. From that we have 'proof' that you are in Korea. It all adds up to you being the greatest suspect. If you agree to work with us, then you will be the one to bring IoSeph to your father. Your father will know sooner or later that the police are after you. He will be reassured. He will believe that you are only working for him."

Nicole rested her chin on her hand. Something still bothered her.

"The only problem is that Damian escaped which we are not responsible for. He hasn't returned yet and I'm not sure if he will but the main point is that it's possible that there really is a traitor..." she muttered to herself before straightening up.

"That's why we need you to work with us as soon as possible. Not only do we need the stop IoSeph operations here, we also need to find the spy. We need you to help us."

Yuri did not know how to react to this. So many things that included her had been planned ages ago without her even knowing about it. Yuri staggered slightly, leaning on the wall for support. What had she gotten herself into? There was no way out of it. Nicole looked at her sympathetically. If they had a choice, they wouldn't have wanted Yuri to do this either.

"I'm sorry that we have to do this but it's the only way. If you work alongside of us, we can end this completely. We can arrest everyone who was ever involved in this operation. Your record will be cleared once this is over. You will be able to return to them," Nicole said softly putting a hand on her shoulder.

You will be able to return to them.

Yuri swallowed. What done was done. She was wanted by the police. She was a criminal. Yuri's heart clenched at the thought. It wasn't just as simple as becoming a criminal for the police to hunt down. Kwon Yuri was now the enemy of the people she cared about most. Jessica and Yoona...they would hate her. She wanted nothing more than to return to them as the friend they knew but even so, she could not. There was still something that held her back.

"You know I can't go against my father. My brother, he's-"

"I'm sorry Yuri but your brother...he's dead. He died a year ago."

~~~~~~~~

Her father took his seat behind his desk while Yuri stood side by side in front, waiting in silence. Mr. Kwon stared hard, building up his authority.

"Kwon Yuri. This is your last chance. Are you going to retrieve IoSeph for me?"

Yuri's expressionless face revealed none of the emotions that were churning inside her.

"Yes."

Chapter Fifteen

“Tiffany, I said I’m not going,” Jessica repeated for the umpth time but Tiffany ignored her for the same amount.

“You haven’t left the office for ages. You need a break!”

Tiffany dragged her by the sleeve while Jessica tried to head back to the elevator. It was true. Jessica was unwilling to leave the office but couldn’t clear her head enough to let herself sleep. The result of that left the rest of the WYE team terrified so they sent Tiffany to get her out.

“I can’t leave. I have work to do!” Jessica grunted, continuing with the game of tug-o-war.

“Sooyoung, Hyoyeon, Seohyun and Onew will take over,” Tiffany replied quickly, now pulling with all her strength. If it wasn’t Jessica, she would have simply knocked the person out. Actually, Tiffany hadn’t crossed out that option yet.

“Then what are you doing?” Jessica demanded. Tiffany let out an exasperated sigh. God, Jessica could be so dense sometimes.

“I’m in charge of dragging you out of the building but now I wish I chose to take over your paper work instead!” she shouted. Tiffany suddenly felt the opposing force loosen and showed less reluctance.

“Oh,” Jessica said quietly, slightly disheartened but mentally slapped herself right after. Why in the world was she suddenly bothered by such a simple remark? She should be upstairs, figuring out the case and searching for Yuri.

Jessica said it so quietly that Tiffany did not hear. Tiffany sighed in relief when they finally reached underground parking. When they reached Jessica’s motorcycle, Jessica flung her leg over and grabbed the handles, starting it up.

“I’m not agreeing to this,” Jessica muttered although her actions showed otherwise. Jessica reached for the second helmet.

“Here.”

Jessica turned with her arm lifted up only to see a mirror image of what she was doing. Instead of climbing onto the bike behind her, Tiffany was sitting on her new and personalized pink scooter parked beside her. Tiffany even got pink helmets to go with the theme and she was offering one to Jessica.

They both looked at each other with questioning looks.

“I thought I’m driving.” Tiffany said blankly.

“No way am I going to go on that thing,” Jessica said bluntly. “And riding with a newbie on the real roads is close to suicide.”

“I drove here with this and I survived okay? Plus I improved a lot since the last time,” Tiffany said defensively. “Suicide is defined by sitting behind someone who hasn’t slept for days and already exceeds speed limits by a scary amount.”

“Okay, forget car crashes. I can’t wear that. It’s pink,” Jessica said pointing at the helmet. Tiffany beamed happily at the mention of her helmet despite Jessica disgusted tone.

“I know! The colour matches my bike really well huh? Isn’t it pretty?” she squealed.

“Yea, if you’re asking to be driven over,” she muttered and Tiffany smile dropped to a disapproving frown.

“Jessica Jung. Get on. Now.”

~~~~~~~~

“Watch the hole!”

“I know Jessica!” Tiffany hollered back but could not avoid it fast enough. The scooter dipped down dangerously and Jessica clung on for her dear life. The wheel forced itself back up resulting in another life threatening jerk. Once they finally got back on smooth pavement, Jessica was finally able to breathe.

“So tell me Tiffany, what do you know again?”

Luckily Jessica couldn’t see from behind but Tiffany turned crimson red not quite in embarrassment but by how Jessica was holding onto her so tightly before.

“I know that...you scream like a dolphin.”

The silence told Tiffany that she had just stated fact, something that even Jessica couldn’t return a snarky comeback.

“Where are we going?” Jessica said, changing the subject.

“I’m not sure. Sooyoung just told me to get you out. I can take you back home to sleep or we can go get something to eat or-”

“Just continue driving,” Jessica suddenly ordered.

“Don’t you want to go anywhere?” Tiffany asked back, confused.

“No, just…please continue driving.”

Tiffany didn’t quite understand why but abided to her request anyways. Tiffany drove in circles still unsure of why Jessica asked for this.

Jessica had never sat behind anyone on a bike before apart from the few times that she taught Tiffany how to ride a scooter but even then, her hands were grasped firmly on the side of the bike. Now that her arms circled around someone’s waist, Jessica realized the warmth that it offered. Jessica peeked to make sure Tiffany was fully focused on the roads before gently resting her head on Tiffany’s back.

There was a difference between sitting in front and behind. Being the leader, Jessica would always be the one to go first, to lead the group, and be the one to push them back up when they were discouraged. Not only that, she had to support herself since young. There was only one person to take care of Jessica and that was herself. There was no shoulder to cry on.

The feeling that Tiffany brought her at this very moment was comforting. Her presence made Jessica believe that there would indeed be someone for her to lean on, someone to make her troubles disappear or at least share them with. A small smile formed on her face. She was simply going to enjoy this short moment for as long as she could…or at least until Tiffany crashed into something.

~~~~~~~~~

“I can’t believe the only time I’m outside I’m picking up garbage,” she mumbled as she picked up the banana peel with two fingers and flinging it back into the can. Tiffany pouted.

“I said I’m sorry okay? I didn’t mean to hit the trash can. The roads are just difficult to see at night.”

“Tiffany, you weren’t even on the road. You somehow veered off onto the sidewalk, nearly ran over little kids, luckily dodged the bench but knocked down the can next to it instead.”

Tiffany’s head looked down sheepishly.

“At least no one was hurt,” she said quietly.

No, just a very close call to a heart attack.

But she couldn’t bring herself to say it aloud. After picking up the very last piece, Jessica plopped herself down on the bench that Tiffany was so close to destroying. For the first time, she actually felt tired. That may be because of the comfortable position she was in before the unfortunate crash.

Tiffany placed herself down beside her, fidgeting with her fingers.

“I’m sorry,” she repeated guiltily when suddenly weight fell on her shoulder. Tiffany bit back a gasp when she realized that Jessica had fallen asleep. For the first time in days, the leader had finally fallen asleep. The same fluttery feeling overcame her once again as Tiffany studied her every feature until her gaze reached Jessica’s open hand.

Tiffany hesitated. Checking again that Jessica was indeed asleep, Tiffany licked her lips in preparation. Tiffany slid her own hand carefully into Jessica’s, smiling to herself when they finally matched. Maybe it was stupid how she felt jitters simply by being with her. Even more so how she felt jitters by holding a sleeping person’s hand. It was like a young girl’s crush all over again. Tiffany didn’t know how long she could hold her hand like this but even for this short time, she was going to remember this feeling of being in love with someone even if it was in secret.

~~~~~~~~

They were sitting in Nicole’s living room, pondering on their next move. After delivering IoSeph to her father, Yuri has successfully joined them. Although she still knew little of what they were planning on doing, it allowed her to familiarize with the surroundings, preparing for any night detours. Surprisingly, her father actually had shown Yuri a bit more than expected, an odd benefit but she supposed this was what Nicole meant by needing her. By now, Yuri memorized everybody’s schedule, location and even which ones had access to which rooms. It was procedures that Jessica had always told them they must follow.

“Know what you’re going into and find ways around obstacles before you meet them because by then it’ll be too late. The prepared will die last,” Jessica stated bluntly.

“That’s a cheery remark Sica. At least we can all look forward to a lonely death after we read all these papers,” Yuri added cheekily, not even bothering to open the file that Jessica had handed out to the team.

“Oh and can the ‘prepared’ make sure that my funeral will be glamorous?” she asked the group. “ I want to go in style.”

That resulted in a bullet through her desk and the hole still remained. At that time, she was still new and definitely had the spoiled rich kid vibe in her. Yuri chuckled lightly at the memory. That didn’t stop her from constantly making fun of Jessica but she did learn the importance of preparation from her. It was something she could not forget, not when Jessica had to save her from her mistake. Their constant bickering meant nothing in comparison to what they were willing to do for each other. They were family and Yuri prayed that they could still be once this was all over.

“Yuri, are you listening?” Nicole asked dully interrupting her thoughts. Yuri nodded quickly.

“Yep. A flash card right?”

Nicole sighed. She would just have to repeat everything all over again.

“Yes, a flash card. It keeps all their information. Their progress, the list of who is involved, their research and everything else about the operation. With this information not only can we stop the operations in Korea, we can eliminate every bit of information on IoSeph so that it will never return again,” Nicole explained.

“It doesn’t sound hard…” Yuri mumbled. After all, she had been in the WYE team for ages. This was nothing new. Reading her expression, Nicole understood her thoughts.

“I know it sounds simple and honestly it doesn’t need to be complicated. The problem is that we have no idea where it is. There are only two, one with Simeon and one with your father and it’s that one that we’re aiming for. I’m not sure where he keeps it. I can only think of the lab or his office.”

Yuri tapped on the table thinking hard.

“No that can’t be right. If it’s important enough, there’s no way that my dad will leave it somewhere as open as those places no matter how well it is guarded. It risks the chance of being stolen by people like us. It’s too easily accessible for people involved and if those are our first thoughts then it means they should be his last. It has to be a place that people would never connect him with.”

Nicole pursed her lips.

“The problem is, none of us know him well enough to even start to guess where. That’s why it’s been taking me so long. To be honest, the only reason I knew it even existed was because I hacked into your father’s laptop and found bits and pieces of it saved onto it updated only about a month ago. Even so, in this time, the card can be moved to anywhere. As to where the original is, I still don’t know.”

Yuri’s ruined relationship with her father really didn’t help at the moment either. Yuri knew nothing more that Nicole did. Nicole cleared her throat before continuing.

“So your task today is to sneak into his office. I know it’s not in there,” Nicole said before Yuri could interrupt. “But at least get some clues. Cover what I can’t hack into. Physical activities isn’t exactly my forte so you will have to do it for me.”

Yuri nodded in understanding.

“Tonight?”

“Why not?”

“Perfect.”

Yuri got up from her seat and pulling the gloves she had already prepared. Wearing these gloves again made her remember the time when she went undercover to capture Damian. That seemed so long ago.

“I will return,” she promised herself quietly.

Chapter Sixteen

“Guard number one turns to corridor four in exactly…now.”

And he did, strolling in absolute casualty thinking that no one would even dare to come. Yuri glanced at the camera where she knew Nicole was watching. She had just came up from the first set of elevators which Nicole had so kindly unlocked for her yet this stupid building was a maze. There was no single elevator that made it all the way up. Was this for security measures or was this just the architect being retarded?

“Try not to knock anyone out. It’ll be better not to make a ruckus,” Nicole said in her earpiece.

“Then that would require me to pretend that no one is out to get me despite the crazy amount of guards on each floor. Joy,” Yuri mumbled back.

With the guard’s back facing her, she slipped to the other side. With Nicole guiding her and able to control the building’s operation, the trip up would be done with extreme care.

“You have five seconds till the next guard comes around the corner. Make your way across into the next hallway, turn left then make a right. No guards are positioned there. Keep going to its end and I’ll unlock the doors to the next set of elevators.”

Yuri leaned out carefully, her back pressed against the wall, to confirm that the coast was clear. She dashed over, running silently but quickly, enough for the incoming guard to notice nothing and let out a loud yawn due to the boring night. Yuri walked cautiously after her first left turn and at its end she could already see her second. As Yuri was just about to make her right turn, she could hear footsteps approaching from the direction she was prepared to enter. Jumping backwards, she cursed under her breath. Nicole said there would be no one.

“You liar…” she hissed though she knew Nicole was not to blame. Stupid guards that didn’t bother to keep their post and heading to ruin her plan.

“Can you even believe that Simeon let the girl join? I mean, just because Kwon wanted it doesn’t mean he had to. It doesn’t seem like something he would do,” one of them started conversationally. The other chortled at the concern in his voice.

“It’s a trade, that’s all. It makes sure Kwon would keep up his deal in supplying everything during the mass production of the drug. We need him for the money. Not that Simeon had anything to lose anyways. He got IoSeph back didn’t he?”

“True…”

Yuri controlled her breathing as she pressed herself against the wall as close as possible. From the sound of it, her father wasn’t getting much respect from his “employees”. Instead, the scientist seemed to have more control over these people. Yuri let the information sink in as she waited patiently in the dark for the two to pass. They would head straight and Yuri would then dodge them from behind.

“Anyways, I should go back to my post now shouldn’t I?” the one with the deeper voice said. Yuri labeled him guard number four.

No duh, you should.

“Guarding at the front now you see.”

Oh ****.

Yuri froze. That means he would have to go the way she just entered. Yuri was inching backwards and her footsteps matched the guard’s incoming ones. Her eyes started wandering, desperate, there had to be something. One hand was tapping her hidden gun impatiently while the other glided against the walls as she backed up hurriedly, retracing the steps she had just taken. She wasn’t supposed to attack anyone.

Her hand suddenly left her gun and threw itself her shirt collar, pulling it up to her mouth.

“Nicole!”

~~~~~~~

It was still dark, possibly midnight. There was no sun at least. Jessica knew she needed to wake up but she didn’t want to move. Honestly, she had only slept for a few hours and though she knew she would eventually sport a sore neck, she was unwilling to truly get up. Still, she had to. Her eyes slowly opened to find her hand unable to move. She didn’t know how it came to be but it didn’t quite matter either. Tiffany had also fallen asleep, her head dipped forward. Jessica felt her gaze flicker from her closed eyes, her nose and to her lips.

Jessica shut her eyes quickly, scrunching her face in embarrassment and turned to the other side.

Look away, look away.

Jessica Jung had been proud to say that she always had an unlimited amount of self-control but it was all because of stupid Tiffany Hwang’s hand that made her lose it. It was this warmth that contrasted from her own cold hands. To say she had never held someone’s hand before would be a lie but to say this felt different wouldn’t be.

Tiffany held your hand before. She dragged you out of the building didn’t she? Plus you even had your hands around her waist during the ride. But that is for a legitimate reason right? Oh no wait, I’ve hugged Tiffany before too when I came back from the hospital. I did that?!? Reason…reason…none other than…impulse. Not true! I was trying to comfort her. She was crying.

Jessica let out a relieved sigh but her memory reminded her of something.

Yea and so was Sooyoung.

Her mind was going haywire as she thought of every little skinship she had performed and to anyone else, it would’ve been laughable. To Jessica, she was literally spazzing silently in her seat, yet with the limitation of not moving too much, it was just ridiculous. Finally calming down from her fit, she sighed.

Why am I such a fail?

Jessica turned to face her once again. She was…very beautiful. It made her feel more than stupid to think that. Jessica carefully used two fingers to tip her head back up and offered her own shoulder as Tiffany’s pillow. Losing sight of what she had been convincing herself to do just seconds ago, Jessica felt herself lean closer. Her heart thumped like mad when they were less than an inch apart. Their lips met and Jessica kissed her for the first time.

~~~~~~~

Guard number four whistled his off-tune song as he made his way to the elevators down. God was he tired. His card swiped the electronic device and waited for the beep that told him it had processed. It never came.

Confused, he swiped it again and though the beep was still not heard, the elevator doors opened to welcome him in. Yawning spectacularly, he entered with a shrug. The door closed and before he could reopen his eyes, something shot into him and he toppled over.

Yuri bent down to lift the limp body and threw him against the corner. She positioned him carefully, leaning his head to the side. Yuri looked expectantly at the elevator camera and the door opened once again. Yuri took calm steps out while her ear buzzed with complaints.

“I told you not to kill anyone!” Nicole hissed. “And next time, give me more than a two second warning!”

“Anesthetic bullets my friend,” Yuri replied coolly. “He's asleep. There’s never a time I equip myself with less than two weapons. And I can’t help it when I’m in a situation like this. You disabled the entire system so that it’s all under your control. Who else was I supposed to call for to get the elevators working? He’s not an idiot. He’ll realize something is wrong if the elevators don’t respond to his card.”

Nicole huffed but couldn’t deny her words.

“Where did you get that gun?” she asked, grumbling.

“My dad’s toy storage. Anyways, close the elevator and send it to the lowest floor. Keep it shut and don’t let anyone in. He can call for help when he wakes up.”

Yuri hurried back to where she had left off. Passing swiftly she finally made it to her destination. Yuri made a sign to the camera and pressed her back against the cold doors of her final elevator up. She took a casual step back as the doors parted. Up up and away.

Arriving at the top floor, Yuri entered her father’s office that had been unlocked for her. Yuri grimaced at the sight. It was truly a perfect disguise. If anyone else entered, it was your typical CEO office with fancy decorations that told everyone he was filthy rich. Ignoring all the luxuries, Yuri started rummaging through. This would take awhile.

~~~~~~~

Opening her eyes slowly, Tiffany found Jessica looking at the opposite direction, deep in thought. She had awaken for an unusual reason. Tiffany didn’t quite know what but it seemed like a soft touch against (she blushed at the thought) her lips? Maybe she was imagining things or it was the wind. Whatever it was, she woke because of it. Her eyes flickered down to their linked hands and though awake, Jessica didn’t pull away. It made her heart flutter as she reluctantly lifted her head off Jessica’s shoulder.

“Hey.”

Jessica turned to her with a smile.

“Good morning,” she said softly. “Sorry you had to sleep out here for me.”

“It’s nothing,” Tiffany hastily replied and she meant it. Jessica’s shoulder was oddly comfortable.

“Am I allowed to go back to work now?” Jessica, being her boring self, asked once Tiffany was fully awake.

Tiffany let out an exaggerated sigh.

“If you have to, you workaholic.”

They stood up and Tiffany headed for her bike. Tiffany suddenly felt Jessica’s hand leave hers and turned. Jessica was walking in the opposite direction.

“Where are you going? My scooter is here,” Tiffany said dumbfounded. Jessica gave her a raised eyebrow, teasing her.

“I need to get back to work. That means I need to survive the trip back. Therefore, I’m walking.”

Tiffany stared.

Well…can’t fight with that kind of logic.

Chapter Seventeen

Her hands clenched on the nicely polished desk. She was more than frustrated. How in the world could there be absolutely nothing? Yuri pounded her fist at the desk, her anger getting the best of her. How could this office be so perfect? It showed nothing of her dad’s hidden work. It seemed more like a set, ready for actors and actresses to enter but nothing was real, just props.

Yuri pursed her lips, deep in thought. It was pathetic how little she got from this trip. Her father’s desk decorations mocked her. The stupid computer that had nothing, those pictures that faked his family guy image, the clock he barely used and the drawers that contained nothing but blank sheets of paper. It didn’t make any sense. There had to be something that didn’t fit in this scene.

“There’s nothing Yuri.”

Her heart jumped in shock and instinctively, she pulled her gun out but not fast enough. Yuri stared at the gun that aimed straight at her head and the one who held it.

“Jaejoong,” she breathed. Jaejoong gave her a hard look that she never believed he could pull off.

“So I guess you’ve been waiting?” Yuri started cautiously. Jaejoong nodded slowly to her question.

“Since the moment you accepted to join, I’ve cleaned his room of anything you would find useful.”

That explains everything.

“You overheard us,” she stated calmly despite being at gunpoint.

Jaejoong shook his head.

“I knew you wouldn’t join without a reason behind it. Those tears that you cried the first time I met you…those were real. Nothing else you did here were.”

Yuri swallowed slowly. Jaejoong still spoke with his soft voice, the same voice that was excited over a simple lollipop and at least tried to make her miserable life better. She simply could not believe that he truly worked for her father. She still didn’t.

“You won’t shoot me,” Yuri started carefully and she saw Jaejoong’s stance waver while his uncertain grip tighten.

“I can’t let you go. I work for your father and the organization. I won’t defy them,” he said as if trying to convince himself as well as Yuri. “I can’t let a traitor go.”

Even at this time, Yuri looked at him sympathetically. He wasn’t this type of person. He wouldn’t kill just like that. He was a person that cared, that worried and could not be heartless.

Yuri lifted her hand to reach for him across the desk but he only placed his finger firmly on the trigger.

“Don’t bother. I owe everything to your dad and I will kill you,” he said firmly, regaining his confidence.

“You’re not like th-“

“What do you know?! How do you know what kind of person I am?” he shouted at her. His body was shaking, his voice trembling.

“I would kill. I have killed.”

“Don’t hurt him please, don’t hurt him!” he pleaded but the burly man didn’t care. The big bald man kicked his brother cruelly and dragged him roughly by the hair. His brother’s screams cried for his name.

“Jaejoong! Jaejoong!”

There wasn’t much of a choice. After their parents died, they had lived in an orphanage that treated them terribly. They were brothers who now lived on the streets with no money, scrounging only garbage to survive. Though young, they would do street jobs here and there, whether it was to rob or to become beggars, it didn’t matter as long as they could raise the little money they need to continue on. No matter what job it was though, they would stick together.

It wasn’t what they wanted, working for some petty mafia boss that raided and bullied those that lived in this sketchy area but they didn’t have much of a choice. At least they had shelter to escape the rain once in awhile.

Today, they were ordered to pick pocket. Jaejoong and his brother stole several from the busy streets and by this time, it should be enough. The way the money was split however, was that the boss gets almost everything, sparing them only the change. His brother attempted to steal from one more person, keeping the money for themselves. It wasn’t expected that he would be caught and that this man was not simply a random passerby.

Jaejoong threw himself at the man, his arm locking itself around his neck. The stronger man rammed him against the wall, causing him lose grip and crash to the ground. Jaejoong coughed painfully from impact.

“Jaejoong!”

A piercing scream escaped his brother’s mouth and by the time Jaejoong pushed himself off the ground, all he could see was blood. That b****** had plunged a knife right through him.

Jaejoong lost his mind. He threw all his weight against the killer, grabbing his wrist and slamming it to the wall. The knife dropped into his brother’s blood and Jaejoong ran to grab it. The second he reached it, he plunged it straight into the other’s chest again and again until he knew that he was dead.

It felt unreal how quickly a human life could fail and end. Jaejoong dropped the weapon and retreated to his brother, crying.

“Please don’t die, please don’t die,” Jaejoong sobbed, pulling his brother into his embrace. They were both dirty with sweat and blood but Jaejoong could never let go. Through his tears, he found something sticking out of his brother’s jean pocket. Jaejoong reached for it and tears flooded. This was his brother’s favourite, the one flavor their mother always bought for them. It served as memory of what had been their family.

His fist curled around the lollipop and held tightly to his remaining family member. It was all he had left.

“Mr. Kwon was kind. When he found me, he allowed me to give my brother a resting place. He treated me well and I worked for him ever since,” he recounted quietly and Yuri was holding her breath. She would’ve never believed her father did such a thing. A burning emotion erupted inside her.

“My father would never do such a thing without a reason,” she growled. “All he cares is no one but himself.”

“Your father treated me like his son,” Jaejoong explained earnestly. Before he could react, Yuri quickly jumped on the desk, kicking his gun hand and Jaejoong watched his gun fly out, landing far away on the ground. Yuri had taken advantage over his distracted state. Yuri stood up straight, towering over the Jaejoong with her own gun aimed at his face.

Now she knew where this unpredictable devotion came from. Jaejoong wanted a family, someone who cared and he had thought her father had given one to him. What he didn’t realize was that her father didn’t know how to be a real father. He knew nothing.

“You think he treated you like you were his son?” Yuri questioned, using her remaining strength to control her emotions. “You honestly believe that my dad knows what the word family means?”

Jaejoong gaped wordlessly, unable to reply.

“You’ve lost your family but I had no family to begin with,” Yuri countered. “My father never stayed home for more than an hour. I would call for him and he would walk out the door without looking back. He sent my brother away to some foreign country all alone where he had no one to depend on. My mother died in the bed that they had never shared. She died with her own blood staining the sheets and still without seeing his face one last time.”

“And where was I? I was the rich girl that everyone hated because my father would tear down everyone’s parents job ruthlessly. I was the girl that had to eat lunch alone in the bathroom stall because no one would want anything to do with me. My mother was gone and my brother had been taken away from me and it’s all because of my father. I didn’t want the last name Kwon.”

Yuri was laughing humorlessly now.

“I hate him for everything he has done but you know what? I’m friggin jealous of you because he treated you better than how he treated his real family. Because you actually had spent time with him. You at least had his attention for more than a second.”

Yuri bent down to look at him straight in the eyes, her gun still aimed at his forehead.

“At one point of my life, every part of me would’ve wanted to shoot you because of this jealousy. Why would my father treat someone better than his own daughter who waited for him every day to say goodnight, to tuck her into bed?” Yuri asked, her eyes brimming with hot tears.

“But that’s over now,” Yuri explained, her gun lowering. “Because I know that my true family doesn’t consist of this man. They are waiting for me to return right now and if you try and stop me, I will shoot you without a second thought.”

Yuri placed her gun back into her holster and jumped back down to the ground. Yuri swiped an object off the desk before heading to the door but paused.

“Jaejoong.”

Jaejoong was frozen and he did not turn to face her but she knew he was listening.

“He killed his own son and he would do the same to you once he finds a reason to. Please leave while you can.”

And without another word, Yuri exited, leaving Jaejoong alone.

Yuri closed the door behind her and headed to the elevators, her mission done. She lifted the stolen object and studied it. To her this was treasure. To Mr. Kwon, this was a disguise, a laughable one to anyone who knew him like she did.

“Nicole. I found it.”

The elevator door opened to let her in. Her grip tightened on the picture frame. Yuri lifted her fingers to touch the photo. It was the one and only family picture they had taken. There was her father, her mother, her brother and herself. Yuri smiled sadly. Her brother and she had been so young. Her mother was still smiling.

This was why it was fake. This was why it didn’t belong in her father’s office. This was why behind the picture, there was something hidden.

Chapter Eighteen

“Where am I supposed to go now?”

Yuri hurried along on the streets waiting for Nicole’s next orders.

“Are you sure it’s right? I mean, I’ve been in that office countless times. How could I have missed it?” Nicole questioned, doubtful.

“You were right when you recruited me. It did require someone who knew him as well as I did…”

Yuri shook her head, erasing the unnecessary memories and onto the task at hand.

“Can’t be wrong now that it’s in my hand. So now what?” she asked.

“I need you to go meet someone. The one I said I’ve been working with,” Nicole answered shortly after. “It would be best that she receives the data first.”

Yuri clicked her tongue in anticipation. She had been curious of who dared to break in headquarters to retrieve IoSeph. Yuri nodded to herself as Nicole told her the address as well as how to get there. Yuri snaked passed the building crowd now that morning had arrived with a destination in mind. And to think, she had gone through an entire circle just to meet this person again.

~~~~~~

A red sports car zoomed across the roads, switching lanes left and right as if too eager to reach its destination. Yoona had been patient for awhile, waiting for Seohyun to feed her all the information to her laptop before finally confronting Gyuri. She couldn’t take it anymore if this missing piece of information was related to Yuri. Gyuri had been lying meaning that Yuri’s supposed break in might be a hoax as well. Yoona needed answers.

Yoona looked down at the thick folder that sat next to her at shotgun. It contained Gyuri’s personal files in her computer and was necessary to tackle Gyuri’s lies head on. That way, Gyuri would have no way to avoid and dodge what she had to ask. Despite breaking all rules, Yoona had convinced Seohyun to do all this, extracting even the most protected files. Yoona’s eyes turned back to the roads, her expression showing her determination. She was not going to let Yuri take the blame.

~~~~~~~

The pair entered headquarters to find Sooyoung and Hyoyeon working tirelessly with a bigger pile than usual. Jessica scanned the room quickly, noticing Seohyun’s sleeping presence and the lack of another.

“Where’s Onew?” she demanded from the remaining members.

Sooyoung, looking like a ghost, took out her lollipop, turning away from her computer screen to answer.

“He’s meeting up with Luna but before you say anything,” Sooyoung pressed on as Jessica was about to interrupt, “don’t be too hard on him. I mean, him, like us, has been working his ass off, even more so because he thinks that anything he could memorize is his responsibility.”

Jessica bit back the words she was about to say. They knew her too well. Sure, Onew should stay at work at such an imperative time but she had already made Onew reschedule his previous date because of it. Plus the fact that her members did everything they could these days. Sleep was one of the things they sacrificed already, not to mention having to eat cup noodles for every meal of the day.

“So we decided to let him go out, smell some fresh air for us and meet up with his girlfriend. He’s the only one that has one anyways,” Hyoyeon finished with a sigh, wishing that she had someone to be with too.

“Is that wrong?” they both asked with worry. They did do something that Jessica had not authorize and didn’t even inform her about it. They all stared at Jessica, awaiting her final verdict over their decision. Jessica’s frown scared them as she made her way to her desk, sitting down and turning on her computer.

“Get out.”

Sooyoung and Hyoyeon both turned immediately to Tiffany, asking what happened during the time they weren’t there.

“What did you do?!” they whispered urgently, traumatized by Jessica’s frightening tone. Tiffany waved her hands frantically and shrugged.

“She did sleep!” she mouthed quickly back but jumped in shock when Jessica threw a crumpled piece of paper at Sooyoung’s head without even turning to look.

“Get out means get out of this office. Go and eat something good, take in some fresh air and run a lap or something. I’ll pay for whatever you do out there. Just get your butts out of those chairs in the next few seconds. I expect you back tomorrow.”

The two gaped wordlessly, unable to truly believe what workaholic Jessica had just said. Their leader spun her chair around and glared at them with her signature icy looks.

“This is an order.”

Hyoyeon and Sooyoung jumped up from their seats with a quick salute, grinning like twin idiots.

“Yes Sergeant Sic! Grab Seohyun, Fany! We’re going to buffet!” they exclaimed in happiness. Tiffany watched the two wake up Seohyun hastily and the young girl blinked in surprise. Sooyoung threw her Keroro blanket aside and dragged her hastily by the arm, repeating the word buffet again and again in pure bliss.

“Wait, I have something to tell Jessica unnie!” Seohyun tried but Sooyoung didn’t hear her.

“Food, food, food, food, food, food,” she chanted, pulling her away. Hyoyeon was about to follow the two when she noticed Tiffany not following.

“Aren’t you coming?” Hyoyeon asked and Tiffany shook her head.

“It’s alright. I went out already and I kind of want to stay,” she replied simply with a smile. Hyoyeon looked at her and then her gaze flickered to their leader working at the back. Hyoyeon smile widened as she waved.

“Alright then. I’ll bring back something good for the both of you,” Hyoyeon promised and she ran to catch up with the impatient Sooyoung who was calling for her at the elevator. Tiffany went back to her desk, carrying on with what Hyoyeon and Sooyoung had left. Sneaking a quick peek at Jessica, she returned to her computer screen with a sweet smile.

Jessica always had an odd way of expressing herself but Tiffany found it kind of cute. Tapping quickly on her keyboard, she felt happy.

~~~~~~

Yoona arrived at the fancy condominium that she knew Gyuri visited secretly. Getting more data than intended, this was supposed to be the meeting place she and her ‘sources’ met at. It was even better that they planned to meet today. Gyuri was bound to be here.

Yoona strolled into the building casually, explaining to the security guard that she was here to meet a friend. Yoona looked up and watched the elevator slowly make its way back down to the lobby.

As she waited, Yoona watched as a person with her bulging bag out talk to the security guard before being led to the lobby fireplace. Yoona stared curiously for a second at the large bag and apparently, the fireplace needed something to be done with it.

“Yes, I’ll fix it,” the person reassured the guard and he left the person alone to do her job. Yoona would have stared longer but the elevator finally came. Her finger reached for the button and the elevator responded. Her hand clutched her bag nervously for it contained the printed data from Gyuri’s computer as well as her gun.

Seventh floor and still going, Yoona reassured herself by believing that she would not need to resort to her gun. Yoona was not one who used weaponry on a regular basis but she was very familiar with the works. After all, working alongside with the WYE team and with Jessica shooting holes into Yuri’s desk at random intervals was bound to help Yoona one way or another.

A small ding announced that Yoona had arrived and she walked cautiously to the innermost door. This was where Gyuri was. Taking a deep breath, she knocked.

~~~~~~~~

“Juliette, oh~” he sang to himself as he studied his reflection nervously on the side mirror of his car once again. Taking Sooyoung’s advice, Onew tried to look as best as he could. He had his bouquet of roses sitting in his car waiting to be presented. His CDs lined up perfectly for Luna to choose and his car was the best he could offer.

Though not satisfied with the crazy dark circles that surrounded his eyes, Onew smiled in anticipation as he leaned against his car. Onew patted his jacket pocket, satisfied to feel the box still there with its periwinkle ribbon. It was his gift to Luna that he had prepared for some time now but had not been able to give. Hopefully she would like it.

The sun shone brightly, highlighting the streets filled with people. Now that morning was soon to turn into noon, many were out walking in the beautiful weather. Already, the patio of restaurants were filled with people ordering their lunches. The bright red and white umbrellas shielded them from the strong sun as they laughed and talked to their companions. Onew was cheered up simply by looking at this joyous neighborhood.

Onew danced nervously as he looked down at his watch. He was ten minutes early but better this than to have Luna wait. Luna didn’t have work today so Onew was hoping to do something special.

Something caught his attention though when a person dressed in complete black exited the condominium that stood across from him. How could a person be dressed in all black in such heat with a big bag like that on their shoulders? It must have been tiring yet she seemed to be in quite a hurry. Curiosity slowly turned to suspicion as Onew watched the person more closely. That person was female, Onew could tell simply by the way she walked. The way she was dressed seemed unnatural, kind of like hiding something.

Onew stared as she threw the bag into the back seat of her car and she headed to the front. Within seconds, she drove off. It was this unknown feeling of distrust that forced Onew to cross the streets and looked into the condominium. There was something, he was sure. He just needed to figure it out.

~~~~~~~

The door rapped and though earlier than expected, Gyuri would let her in. It shocked her when she opened the door to find not who she was expecting but Im Yoona instead.

Yoona glared down at her and Gyuri was too late to hide her surprise.

“Why are you here?” she managed to breathe out. Looking on both sides and finding no one, she immediately dragged Yoona in, slamming the door shut right after.

“Why in the world are you here?” Gyuri repeated, now sounding more urgent. No, this was not who Nicole said would meet her today.

“Because I want answers to all of these,” Yoona stated, slamming the thick folder over Gyuri’s desk. Gyuri’s mouth dropped open as she saw countless photos of Yuri, her records, Gyuri’s own personal messages with Nicole and loads more.

“How-“

“It doesn’t matter how,” Yoona interrupted. “I just need to know why you have all this. You framed Yuri for the break in when it was you who did it. Everything you said to Taeyeon was a stupid set up. Tell me why you did this!”

Gyuri gaped at her anger because of all people, she would have never expected it to be Yoona to first find out. On her list, she was beyond last.

Yoona looked at her with disbelief when it suddenly dawned to her. Before Gyuri could react, Yoona pulled her gun out, holding it firmly with both hands.

“You work for them,” she accused. “You stole IoSeph for them and freed Damian.”

Gyuri shook her head, her hands raised to prove her unwillingness to fight.

“You got to listen to me, it’s not that simple. I am not working for Simeon and I did not free Damian,” Gyuri reassured but Yoona was not convinced. Her voice faltered when she continued on.

“But I did steal IoSeph and framing Yuri was part of my plan. Still, you have to listen to me. You don’t know the whole story.”

Yoona breathed heavily as she studied Gyuri’s expression. She looked like she was telling the truth and as long as Yoona still had the upper hand, she supposed she could listen.

Gyuri watched carefully as Yoona slowly lowered her gun but still held on to it tightly. She would have to explain quickly before Yoona’s patience ran out.

“The reason Yuri had to be part of this is because…”

~~~~~~~

Stepping into the fancy lobby of the condominium, Onew studied his surroundings quickly and carefully. Nothing seemed wrong but appearances could be misleading. Onew closed his eyes to think.

If I was a criminal, holding a huge black bag, wanting to do something terrible where would I do it and how?

Onew walked around, skimming quickly at the luxurious lobby, bending down here and there and when he reached the door to the stairs, it was locked. Onew walked back to the front desk, getting the attention of the worker who sat there.

“Excuse me, are the doors to the stairs usually locked?” he asked. The worker scratched his head with his pencil with a confused frown.

“No, it shouldn’t be. Is it now?” he asked back and Onew nodded. Onew reached inside his jacket and showed the worker his badge.

“Please open it up. I want to take a look.”

The worker nodded hastily at the police officer and carried his huge set of keys along with him. Once open, Onew looked up to see identical set of stairs all the way up. There were ten floors in total it seemed and if he wanted to check each and every one of them, he needed to hurry.

~~~~~~~

Yoona listened to all of Gyuri’s hasty explanation, how she had people working for Mr. Kwon, how they had to steal IoSeph themselves in order for it to all work and how sacrificing Yuri was crucial in this whole mess. Despite understanding the logic in all of it, Yoona couldn’t accept this fact.

“How could you let Yuri do that without her consent in the first place? She’s wanted by the police and she’ll eventually turn into the enemy of her father once he realizes what she has done. She’d be targeted from both sides!” she burst out, her own personal worries coming before anything else.

Gyuri was not fazed for she knew that her decision was correct.

“Yoona. Yuri is…was a police officer and a member of WYE team no less. You’re messing up your emotions with what is more important. The safety of thousands of other people depends on what Nicole and Yuri can offer right now. She has been trained for these things and as an officer, she knew there would be danger. It’s part of her job-“

“But not under your command,” Yoona countered. “Forget my worries then. As part of the police force, you have no right to carry out any of this without informing the others. Your actions can cause serious damage and hurt more than it can help. By acting on your own, you endangered your own member of your team as well as someone else’s. Jessica would-”

“Never let Yuri go undercover,” Gyuri finished lamely, “nor anyone else for that matter. All noble Jessica Jung would never do anything as ‘shady’ as what I’m doing and maybe that’s the reason why she has got nothing yet.”

Gyuri stood up, regaining her usual authoritative figure.

“Jessica doesn’t do anything in the dark because it’s not in her to even think to risk a life like that. She’d rather go attack them head on but you know what, that’s not possible when it comes to this. You need to counter danger with danger. If Nicole hadn’t worked there, we would have gotten absolutely nothing about their operations. If Yuri didn’t join, we wouldn’t have gotten what we retrieved today,” Gyuri argued furiously and looked at Yoona’s now uncertain eyes. She couldn't disagree.

“Jessica’s too soft. She’d let her emotions get in her way. That’s why I had to act first. Yuri was the ideal way to get to them. Even if Jessica knew Mr. Kwon was involved, Jessica would just fail to use Yuri to her advantage.”

Yoona had nothing left to say, only her heart aching with worry.

“You didn’t just put Yuri’s life in danger...you put their friendship in danger as well,” Yoona finally said softly. Gyuri’s eyes softened but her beliefs did not falter.

“I had no choice.”

~~~~~~

Searching carefully, he found nothing. Onew’s footsteps echoed as he made his way back down the stairs and back to the lobby. He had searched at even the hardest corners but still nothing. Perhaps it was just him being overcautious. Onew frowned in confusion as he sat down on the couch, deep in thought. Then why would the stairs be randomly locked? There had to be an explanation shouldn’t there? It was odd for every floor he tried to exit was locked. If he didn’t get the guard to keep the door he entered ajar, he wouldn’t have been stuck forever or wouldn’t have gotten in either.

Onew sat down puzzled, his date completely forgotten. This unsettling feeling made him ponder harder and he closed his eyes. Images of the search flew in and out. Onew was trying to see what was wrong with each and every one of them. Onew could even feel his own strain as he racked his brain, hearing his own brain tick like a clock.

But wait. It wasn’t his brain. Onew’s eyes shot open as he tried to listen in to the almost non-existent ticking. No one else could hear it as they hurried in and out of the building. Onew bent down on the ground, pressing his ears against everything until he saw an unusual glint of red.

Crawling cautiously, he found himself inching closer and closer to the fireplace. It was an electric one and there was no fire.

Tick. Tick. Tick.

Onew pressed his hands on the glass, his heart almost stopping. Hidden deep inside and could only be seen at this level, there was something small that showed numbers and attached to it were explosives. It was a bomb and time was ticking. The red numbers were quickly changing, milliseconds flying, changing seconds and would soon turn the remaining minutes to zero.

In a matter of minutes, it would explode. He pounded vigorously on the thick glass that refused to break. The bomb would remain trapped in there until the second it explodes. Falling backwards and scrambling to his feet, Onew bounded to the walls, hands searching desperately. His eyes found what he was looking for.

Immediately he pulled the trigger down. The fire alarm erupted all over the building. Onew needed them all out.

Chapter Nineteen

“Hello, WYE team’s Jessica Jung speaking.”

“Jessica unnie! I needed to tell you this but I couldn’t before because of Sooyoung unnie. Yoona unnie went to find Gyuri unnie. Onew oppa phoned. The building. There’s a bomb. She’s in danger!”

Jessica didn’t catch a single word she said for there was too much panic in her voice and she had said it all too quickly.

“Seohyun! Slow down. What are you talking about? What building?” she yelled back but before she got an answer, Tiffany ran up to her with an urgent expression.

“Jessica, someone phoned in saying that there is a bomb in a building and everyone is evacuating as we speak. The police force is informed and from what they said, Onew is the only one on site at the moment,” she reported hurriedly. Jessica dropped the phone and it dangled feebly on the edge of the desk. Her whole body was frozen in fear.

And Yoona is inside that building.

Without another word, they both sprinted out.

~~~~~~~

“GET OUT! MOVE!” Onew shouted at the residents, beckoning them to move as quickly as possible before the bomb exploded. Screams and shouts filled the streets as a enormous crowd rushed out onto the roads. The police had been contacted but there wasn’t enough time to wait for them to arrive.

With less than three minutes left, chaos was the only word fit to describe what was happening. People ran and screamed and those who didn’t know what was happening joined them. They didn’t need an invitation to tell them that they were in danger.

“DON’T STOP. KEEP RUNNING!” Onew continued to shout. Cold sweat poured down as he directed everyone to escape.

“Onew!”

He swerved and dread took over his entire body. Luna ran to meet him, her expression filled with worry.

“What’s going on? Where were you? I was so afr-“

Onew stopped her, gripping her tightly on her shoulders.

“There’s a bomb and there’s no time. Please just run,” Onew begged as he forced something into her hands and he pushed her violently away.

“What about you?!” she yelled at him through tears, stumbling back.

“JUST RUN!” he shouted at her and Luna had never seem him like this. Her movement showed hesitation but she ran just as he instructed. Onew was panting in desperation knowing what would happen in a matter of minutes. He was not stupid. The reason all the doors were locked were not to hide something but to prevent escape. His hands clenched into fists, his police ID around his neck. This was his job, this was his duty. He could not run away. He could only run to it.

Onew looked at Luna’s retreating back one last time and forced himself to turn away before sprinting back towards the building.

~~~~~~~

She was late. Yuri blamed the person she tried to get a ride from. There wasn’t much of a choice when Yuri had no cash whatsoever. Sure, she could draw out a gun or two to threaten the taxi driver to move but that would mean attention which at the moment Yuri didn’t want. So instead, she only asked for the attention of one person. A girl in fact, one who had just been ditched by her boyfriend and was all too willing to vent that anger in another form of release. Yuri was ashamed – for once in her whole life she might add – to have said the things she did to lure the poor girl in.

But nonetheless, Yuri got her ride, free and unscathed though after a super long speech to convince the driver that she should wear more and go home. Yuri pulled down her baseball cap that hid her face as she trudged as fast as she could to where she was instructed to meet Gyuri. The streets were filled with more people than usual and more than one had bumped into her as they ran.

In a flash, she knew something was wrong. Yuri bolted up the street, pushing forcefully to fight the opposing rush. Yuri made it to the top of the street and it dawned to her that they were all escaping from one place. The condominium that Gyuri and she was supposed to meet.

No, this can’t be happening. No.

~~~~~~~

Gyuri and Yoona both were startled by the alarm that screeched through the entire building. Yoona faced Gyuri in panic and they both felt something was wrong. Gyuri was the first to move. Pushing Yoona aside, she hurried to collect her laptop. She threw a flash card into it and pressed transfer. From outside the door, they could already hear loud screams and running footsteps.

“What are you doing?” Yoona shouted at Gyuri who was running all over her house.

“We need to get out of here now. This is no false alarm. And even if it is, it means danger to us,” Gyuri explained hastily. She threw Yoona her gun and took one herself.

“Come!” she ordered and they both sprinted out only to be trapped by confused residents trying to escape. Pushing them roughly aside, Gyuri raced for the door to the stairs with Yoona following quickly behind. Her body slammed against the door that refused to budge.

“Why the hell is it not opening?!” she grunted and disregarding all the innocent bystanders, she pulled out her gun. Furiously she shot the lock again and again, ignoring all the screams and shouts that erupted in fear. With one furious kick, she forced the door open.

“MOVE!”

Yoona had never felt such an urgency to run in her entire life, hurrying down the stairs, not knowing what exactly was out to get them. Her question was answered almost immediately. An earsplitting explosion blasted through the building and in one go swallowed the building into flames.

~~~~~~~

Even at this distance, the explosion blew Yuri off her feet and she landed on her side meters away. Yuri buried her head under her arms as bits and pieces were flung at her and everyone else that was still there. Surrounding cars and buildings were ignited by the blast and it soon became a scene of red and orange.

The sound of sirens filled the air, fire trucks leading the rest and immediately started to work after the explosion. Paramedics hurried to those who were thrown to the ground by the force of the explosion.

Yuri scrambled to her feet as she rushed closer to the scene, jumping over small fire trails that covered the ground. As Yuri got closer, she watched the citizens who were injured carried one by one by the paramedics. Her heart stopped when she noticed a familiar face.

“Onew,” she breathed out, unable to stop herself. “No, he can’t be, he can’t be.”

His body was limp and he was dirty from the mess. There was blood that drenched his clothes. He was the first to sacrifice but Yuri refused to believe he was dead. He just couldn’t be. Yuri watched as he was carried into the ambulance.

Suddenly, she heard a loud screech from hasty brakes. The rider threw down her helmet and tried to get through the barrier of firemen that blocked her.

“You can’t go in!” one of them shouted at her but she refused to listen.

“TELL THAT TO ANOTHER PERSON! YOONA IS IN THERE!”

Yuri froze at the sound of that voice. It belonged to none other than Jessica Jung but it didn’t matter at all. Not at this moment.

“HEY YOU! WAIT!”

As most of the firemen were too busy blocking Jessica, one noticed that Yuri bounded across and hurled herself into the remaining gap at the center of the flames that blocked the door.

~~~~~~~~

The explosion had not reached their floor but the force had shook the entire building. Ceilings were unstable and pieces collapsed from the impact. Unfortunately, one landing onto Gyuri’s leg. Still, she clutched her laptop desperately for nothing would make her let it go. It was still on but not for long. If this was destroyed, everything would be ruined.

Yoona felt her breathing becoming more and more strained as she heaved Gyuri down the stairs. Gyuri’s left leg was now disabled. Pulling Gyuri up with all her strength, they limped forward. They were on the fourth floor but if they were careful enough, they may still stand a chance unless the building were to collapse. Yoona tried not to think of that.

As they continued down, it was clear how the explosive had taken a bigger toll on the lower floors.

“Hold on,” Yoona grunted as Gyuri’s arm slid from her shoulders but there wasn’t a need. They were already left with nothing to go down from. The stairs from this floor to the next was broken, a huge gap in between. Yoona felt her remaining hope vanish. It was impossible.

Unable to hold on any longer, Gyuri slid to the ground, her hand reached for the flash card pulling it out of the laptop.

“Yoona,” Gyuri coughed. “Take this and get out of this hellhole.”

“But you-“

“There’s things more important than me!” she spat with her remaining strength. “This holds something that I would trade my life for any day. You can’t let it die with me Yoona. You have to protect this no matter what.”

She pressed the card into Yoona’s hand as well as her cell phone, telling her to go. Yoona looked down wordlessly at the card resting on her palm but Yoona shook her head furiously.

“No, I’m not going to-“

“You don’t need to pretend Yoona, not for my sake,” Gyuri huffed painfully, her leg torturing her. “You know you can jump that. Don’t do this for me. You’re wasting time. Just go.”

Yoona didn’t know what to say and Gyuri used this silence.

“Please save them both for me,” Gyuri whispered her last wish.

Yoona had no choice. Gyuri could not walk and Gyuri was determined to have her go.

“I’m so sorry,” Yoona cried and from then on traveled alone. Taking steps back, Yoona launched herself across, just making it. She turned back, facing Gyuri before she went any further. She did not know her very well. With her bias towards the WYE team, she had never worked much with the KARA team at all but there was still a somewhat courteous respect for them. Now she found a better reason for it. Gyuri, like all others of the police force, worked tirelessly for the safety of others. Yoona could never agree to how she had risked two people’s lives by throwing them into the enemy’s lair but Gyuri too had made sacrifices. She was willing to sacrifice her own life to protect them.

“I’m sorry,” Yoona mouthed again and she forced herself to look away.

Gyuri sat in the midst of flames watching Yoona escape but she wanted this. She would rather die like this than to live her life guilty knowing that she single handedly ruined three others. There were so many things much more important than her. Nicole was. Yuri was. Yoona was. She would not let them die.

~~~~~~~

Even if Gyuri wanted her to escape, it was beyond Yoona’s control. Fire encircled her and smoke was getting into her system. Sooner or later, she would have nothing left in her to run. Yoona lowered to the ground and slid herself down the stairs. Only down here could she avoid the smoke that attacked her lungs yet she was finding it harder and harder to continue moving. Faint sounds of sirens could be heard but to meet them, it required the energy that was depleting rapidly in her. At the third story, there wasn’t much hope.

Her vision blurred and her sense were hazy. There was a time when she thought that the one she wanted to see most as of this moment would be Jessica. She needed someone she could depend on, one that would risk everything to save her. Yoona knew that person would be Jessica but deep inside she also knew that she wanted someone else.

She made it her last effort to reach for her gun. Aiming at nowhere in particular, she fired until there were no bullets left. It was her last attempt. As darkness clouded her, Yoona could only pray that someone heard her.

~~~~~~~

She darted in without thought. Where was she going to find her? Covering her mouth and nose with her arm, Yuri scanned the room in haste. Nothing. Only blown up pieces of furniture which the fire was feasting on as it continued to grow. Inside, there was no left and right. Only a circle of flames that distorted all sense of direction. Heat scorched her skin but Yuri could not care less. She needed nothing but to find her.

In the corner, with the door blasted to smithereens, she could just see the tail of staircase that no longer reached the floor. Stepping back and shooting herself forward, she jumped on top of rubble to propel herself up. Yuri managed to grab on to the staircase’s tip, her body dangling, unable to follow through. Swinging side to side, she found momentum and forced herself up.

Yuri had no time to gasp for the non-existent air and wait. She climbed the stairs quickly. Without warning, consecutive gunshots rang and Yuri ducked in reflex yet they were not aimed at her. The sound was distant and it stopped after several shots. Instead of running away from it, Yuri ran towards it. It meant that someone was trapped in the building.

She climbed the steps as quickly as she could and by the third floor, Yuri found herself looking at the lifeless body of Yoona.

“YOONA!” she shouted, forgetting that she was surrounded in smoke and accidentally inhaled some causing her to choke and cough.

Her mind screamed as she ran to lift her off the floor. Yuri quickly turned her back to Yoona, throwing her limp arms over her shoulders and carried her. With Yoona, Yuri could not go the way she came. Kicking another door open, Yuri ran out to the burning corridor. From this floor, there was only one way left and she pleaded for competence.

Holding onto Yoona tightly, Yuri trudged towards an open door left open from the owner's escape and aimed for the windows. Sitting Yoona down where flames could not reach, Yuri tried to pull the window open but it was stuck. Even after several forceful jerks, it remained tight. Taking Yoona’s gun from her hand, Yuri slammed the butt of the gun against the window. The glass slowly gave way, forming crooked white lines that stretched like spiderwebs. Yuri flung the gun straight at the weakened glass and it finally broke through. The gun fell until it eventually met ground.

~~~~~~~~

“LOOK OUT!”

Jessica grabbed onto Tiffany, pulling her down and shielded her with her body. Pieces of glass dropped from nowhere and something crashed to the cement, shattering. Jessica and Tiffany stared at the fallen object and immediately recognized its broken pieces. It was a gun.

“THE THIRD FLOOR! FOURTH WINDOW” a fire fighter yelled, noticing where it had come from. He and others rushed to a truck and directed it to where the window was. Water was aimed to calm the fire as the fireman climbed up to the top of the truck. The hydraulic platform was raised.

~~~~~~~

Only seconds away from hell, there was no motivation to believe, nothing that inspired the slightest bit of hope. The two curled up in the corner, only able to wait for rescue. Yuri hugged Yoona tightly against her chest, not praying but pleading. Pressing her lips against Yoona’s forehead, Yuri begged her to be okay.

Water suddenly burst through the hole Yuri had created. Realizing there was help, Yuri jumped at the window, breaking and widening the only entrance with her fists. There were voices and Yuri quickly pulled Yoona up from the floor. She carried Yoona to the open window where the fireman was. With the fireman’s help, Yoona was lifted onto the platform. Yuri followed through right after.

Miracles were not supposed to exist but Yuri was willing to exchange everything she had just for one. Yoona had to live.

~~~~~~~

“Carry her to the paramedics. Hurry!” one ordered and immediately, a strong man lifted Yoona onto a stretcher. Jessica and Tiffany felt both relief and fright as they finally saw Yoona’s face. Jessica pushed herself through, helping immediately to push Yoona to the ambulance right away.

“There’s another one,” the same fireman called but when he turned, there was no one there. Tiffany turned at his call and from a distance, she saw someone turning her back from all the chaos, sprinting away.

At this distance, Tiffany could not be sure but a feeling took over her. Could it be?

~~~~~~~

Yuri could only drag her legs, forcing herself to run. Her breathing had never been so strained, her lungs failing to take in the oxygen she desperately needed. Nonetheless, she had to move for she could not stay to let Jessica or anyone for that matter to see her. Unable to push herself any further, she collapsed onto the ground. In her last second of consciousness, she heard a car arrive and hurried footsteps. That was it before everything disappeared.

Chapter Twenty

The hospital had never been more filled. There were so many dead but just as many injured. Every room was crowded by families and friends, weeping for the survivors and those that could not hold on any longer.

Tiffany forced herself not to cry when Hyoyeon patted her on the back comfortingly.

“Are you okay?” Hyoyeon asked gently to Tiffany. Tiffany could only look into the window of the room where Onew lay. Thick bandages wrapped around his entire body and according to the doctor, he had suffered severe burns though he was still alive but only barely. Luna held onto his hand, caressing it with her own. Tears fell as her other hand clutched onto a small box with a ribbon tying it down. She refused to open it. Only he could.

Tiffany pushed herself away, reassuring Hyoyeon that she was. Tiffany left her to find another. As Tiffany turned the corner, she found Jessica looking into another room, her hand pressed against the window. Tiffany looked down, an aching pain inside her. Jessica had not moved for a single second since they first arrived days ago. While everyone else had rotated every so often to see them, Jessica stayed exactly where she was.

It was wrong to even think this at a moment like this. Yoona was hurt and unconscious. They didn’t even know when she was going to wake yet Tiffany still felt something else. She hated herself for feeling this.

Tiffany hated herself more than ever when she noticed how Jessica had frozen the moment she realized Yoona was in the burning building. How desperate she was to get there. How forceful she became to run into the building after her. How Jessica had jumped onto the ambulance herself just to be beside Yoona. Maybe the one Jessica cared most for was Yoona. This pathetic jealousy tore her apart.

Wiping her tears hastily with her sleeve, Tiffany approached Jessica carefully. She couldn’t just let Jessica stay like this, a living corpse.

“Jessica,” Tiffany called for her softly. Jessica did nothing to show that she heard. Tiffany took her hand.

“Please Jessica, you can’t stay like this. Please go home and rest. We’ll come back right after,” she convinced.

Still nothing. Tiffany was losing all patience. She couldn’t bear to see her like this. Tiffany pulled her away forcefully, out the hospital and into her car. Jessica did not fight not did she respond. She walked like a zombie, limp and indifferent. Throughout the entire ride, Jessica’s eyes seemed to be directed to nowhere, looking but seeing nothing.

Pushing her through the door, Tiffany finally managed to bring Jessica home. Tiffany sat Jessica down to the couch and she glared at her. It made her so angry how Jessica was being like this.

“Do you think you have the right to mope like this?” Tiffany questioned, teeth clenched. She wanted nothing more than to shake some sense into her. Jessica’s eyes flickered but didn’t say anything.

“Do you think that none of us are suffering? They were all people we swore to protect. As a cop, you think the rest of us are having the time of our lives right now? Answer me!” Tiffany yelled at her. Jessica just looked away.

“We care just as much for Onew and Yoona as you do but you know what? None of us gave up like you did. We didn’t ignore everyone else around us. We tried to be strong so everyone else could be as well. We know exactly what has happened but we didn’t let it all end because we can’t friggin learn to accept what’s already done!”

She breathed heavily waiting for something to finally come out of her. Tiffany’s heart was broken to pieces when Jessica finally spoke.

“It’s all my fau-“

Tiffany slapped her on the face before she could even think of finishing it. What would make Jessica see that she meant so much to everyone else and it hurt them all when she was acting like this?

“Now you think blaming yourself will solve everything? Everyone looked up to you. They all believed in you. You are letting everyone down by being like this. Jessica, please snap out of it.”

Jessica shut her eyes as if holding in all the pain that had welled inside. Tiffany stared at her with disbelief. This was certainly not the one she knew.

“Who are you?” Tiffany said in barely a whisper, unable to recognize this person anymore. Tiffany was taken aback when Jessica stood up abruptly and looked straight at her. The redness of her eyes and nose as well as the tears that were threatening to come out scared Tiffany so badly.

“Someone who should’ve died ages ago,” she choked out and Tiffany watched as tears finally leaked.

Jessica pushed Tiffany aside and Tiffany watched as Jessica enter a room, slamming the door behind her. Tiffany rushed after her, pushing the door open with equal force and was frozen at the sight. Jessica stood inside the showers, the back of her arms against the wall tiles, fist clenched. Fully clothed, Jessica let the water beat her and join her tears.

“I shouldn’t be here, I’m not worth all those lives that were taken,” she cried into the wall. “I live on a drug that killed countless of people. I would have died years ago if it wasn’t for it and I blamed my father for all my life when he loved me more than anything else.”

Jessica slid down weakly to her knees, hands pulling down the open of her shirt, trying to breathe through the regret and shame that strangled her.

“I couldn’t do anything for Yuri when I’m supposed to be her only family. I believed in all her lies and her acts when she told me she didn’t like Yoona, that she’s living a perfect life. No, I chose to believe in her because I was selfish and didn’t think of how she felt. Now she’s gone and I couldn’t do anything to prove that she wasn’t involved in this whole mess. I just went on with it pretending that I only stood for justice when all along I couldn’t tell the difference between right and wrong!”

Tiffany moved slowly forward, bending down to meet her level. Her hand pressed against the glass shield. Her fingers wanted to touch pass the fogged up glass that only showed the blurry outline of Jessica alone inside. Tiffany wanted to break the barrier that Jessica had been trapped inside all along, this guilt that wasn’t hers to take in. If there was ever a way for Tiffany to pass through this barrier that suffocated Jessica’s heart, a way to be closer, Tiffany would hold her and would never allow her to suffer alone again.

“I’ve tried… I’ve tried so hard trying to find evidence, to end this case and find Yuri but I failed,” Jessica wept, her body trembling in pain. “All I got is a load of useless documents and people that did nothing to help the case. I couldn’t bring her back to us. I couldn’t clear her name. Both Onew and Yoona are injured, so many others dead. Everyone is getting hurt because I couldn’t do anything about it, because I’m useless. Everybody is leaving me and it’s all my fault. I don’t deserve to be alive. IoSeph would have never existed if it wasn’t for me…I’ve killed everyone.”

Tiffany’s eyes burned in hot tears. Pulling the glass door open, she let herself in, bending down beside Jessica. Water fell onto her, drenching her entirely as she wrapped Jessica into her embrace.

“No one is going to leave you. Yuri will come back. So will Onew, so will Yoona,” Tiffany reassured though crying herself. “We are all here to support you. Jessica, please don’t blame yourself. You’re not alone, you’ll never be. Every moment you beat on yourself tears me apart.”

“You’re not useless and I can’t bear to have you gone,” Tiffany cried, holding onto Jessica tightly, unwilling to let them part. “You’re everything to me. I love you Jessica. I’ve fallen in love with you.”

~~~~~~~

Her whole body ached and as much as she wanted to get up, her body just refused to let her do so. Yuri groaned, her stressed muscles too tired to move.

“Glad to know you’re alive,” a familiar voice commented. Nicole went over to Yuri, helping her to sit up and leaned her against the pillow. Yuri surveyed the room they were in and it seemed like a rather cheap motel.

“What happened to your apartment?” she said weakly, then chugging the water Nicole offered to her. Her hand was bandaged and she found it difficult to balance the cup.

“Well, due to your face to face meeting with Jaejoong and what happened recently, I felt that it wouldn’t be safe anymore,” Nicole explained simply. “Are you okay now?”

As if on cue, Yuri coughed painfully as she choked on water due to her haste and with her unsteady grip, it spilt onto her shirt.

“Aww, crap…” she muttered and noticed that she had a change of clothes. Yuri let out an exaggerated gasp and pointed accusingly at Nicole.

“You defiled me!” Yuri exclaimed while Nicole gave her a look of disbelief. “And in such a cheap looking motel too! Nicole, explain yourself!”

Nicole felt bile rise to her throat as she rolled her eyes. She was so ready to puke.

“You think you’re all that don’t you? Everyone who sees you will instantly kiss the ground you walk on?” she asked her lamely, her arms crossed.

Yuri then smirked and leaned her head back onto the pillow.

“Well, maybe not but I was hot though wasn’t I?” she said cheekily. Nicole turned away from her to pick up her own cup of water. She hid the small smile she had on.

“You and your ego. It better go away before my patience runs out,” Nicole threatened lightly. “And don’t you dare push it.”

Yuri closed her mouth to prevent her next snarky comment ready to be released. Nicole sighed. At least Yuri was okay and this absurd conversation had made her feel slightly better from all that happened.

But not entirely.

“I’m going to take a shower,” Nicole said shortly, needing to find time alone. Yuri’s smile slid off right after. She too had not forgotten but it wasn’t enough to brood over what’s done. They had yet to hear any news about Gyuri and whether she survived or not. She knew nothing of Yoona’s and Onew’s condition either. Ignorance was supposed to be bliss. Then why was it torturing her like this?

~~~~~~~~

Late at night, both changed into dry clothes and they had moved out of the bathroom to Jessica’s bedroom. Jessica sat on the edge of the bed, her hands on her lap, head tilted down. Tiffany stood in front of Jessica, ruffling Jessica’s hair with a towel and blow-dryer, taking care of her first. Jessica sat silently, head bent low. Her eyes resembled the ones of a kitten, slightly curious but looked nowhere else but the floor. The scene seemed like a mother tenderly taking care of her child, except that this child felt another kind of care.

Just awhile ago, Jessica really hated herself. This hatred surpassed the one she had felt for her father before she figured out the truth. Everything was going wrong and in every way, Jessica felt that the cause of all this was none other than herself. The pain pounded against her heart, guilt, regret and shame all slamming at her at the same time. Everything she had done was wrong, worthless and changed nothing. Jessica herself felt wrong for existing. The water acted as a punishment and no one could understand how badly Jessica wanted to drown right there and then.

Only until arms wrapped around her, holding her so preciously and so closely did Jessica feel something else. Pushing pass all the terrible memories, all the negative emotions and all her fears, Jessica felt like she was wanted, that she must have at least done one thing right to deserve this. Despite all her mistakes, Tiffany was still there to hold her, telling Jessica that someone out there truly believed that her existence meant something, that it wasn’t all just some grave mistake. And then she spoke of words that Jessica had been afraid to say and still haven’t for this fear had yet to fade. With all the faults she had, tactless, rash, stupid, useless only being a few of them, could she possibly make Tiffany happy? She feared to disappoint.

“Done!” Tiffany announced cheerfully, setting the towel and blow-dryer aside on the bed. Though her own hair was still wet, Tiffany let her fingers smooth out Jessica’s stray pieces of hair that defied gravity with a smile. It made Jessica look so much more innocent and defenseless unlike the cold strong image she had always put up. Like that time when Jessica forced Sooyoung, Hyoyeon and Seohyun out, offering to pay, only to wish that she could reward and show appreciation for their efforts despite being so cold about it. This was probably how a crush turned into something more. Jessica wasn’t simple like that but had more than one side which made Tiffany simply fall in love with them all.

“I boiled some water just now. A cup of hot tea should be good. I’ll go get some for you,” Tiffany said, turning away. She could only take one step when a hand grabbed onto her wrist. Tiffany looked down at her arm before turning her gaze to Jessica. Tiffany returned to where she was, standing in front of Jessica.

“Yes Jessica?” she asked, looking at her curiously from above. Jessica’s gaze did not meet hers. Jessica’s hand tugged on her wrist to bring her closer and before Tiffany could comprehend, Jessica’s arms circled her legs. Tiffany’s heart was beating rapidly when she felt Jessica rest her head gently onto her stomach. Though slightly uncertain, Tiffany raised her own hand, fingers stroking through Jessica’s beautiful blonde hair affectionately. Tiffany didn’t know whether her heart had stopped beating or was going too fast to even feel its pulse. The reason for this was when Jessica had closed her eyes and whispered her first words the whole night.

“Please don’t leave me.”

She had said it so quietly yet all the words went through loud and clear. Tilting Jessica’s head back up, Tiffany lowered herself to her knees, enabling herself to look directly at Jessica.

“I will never,” Tiffany promised. “Because I-“

“I’m in love with you Tiffany Hwang. I’ve fallen for you and I..." Jessica interrupted, her soft voice shaking, unable to look Tiffany fully in the eyes. "I’m scared that I won’t be able to bring you the happiness you deserve. With everything I’ve done…”

Jessica’s hands clenched apprehensively on her lap, begging herself to find courage to make Tiffany understand that she was telling the truth.

“But I can’t help it. I really love you Tiffany,” she whispered, finally lifting her gaze to meet Tiffany’s. Jessica bit her lip, her eyes flickering in apprehension but before she could fret any longer, a sudden swoosh of wind came and Tiffany’s lips were on hers. Her mind just barely registered it when it ended just as quickly as it came.

Tiffany blushed. That was impulsive, totally unplanned but would it be weird to admit that she had truly wondered at the most random times what it would feel like to kiss Jessica? The feeling she imagined was very different from what Tiffany experienced next.

Breaking out of her frozen state, Jessica’s hand raised to caress the cheek belonging to the beautiful face that enticed her heart out from her control and bit by bit closed the remaining space between them again. A tinge of pink found its way on Tiffany’s cheeks and Jessica could see herself reflected in her eyes. Her hand cupped Tiffany’s face, her fingers grazing Tiffany’s ear and wet hair. The tip of their noses met and then their lips. Her kisses were slow and tender but it only proved how delicate Tiffany was to her.

She felt Tiffany’s hand rest on her shoulder, sliding slowly down her arm and her body was taken over by shivers. It felt unreal, finally able to hold her so closely. Her hands lowered, fingers molding to Tiffany’s body as she clasped gently onto her waist, guiding her closer.

Tiffany felt herself change as they kissed. It was as if all her defenses had fallen down and so had Jessica’s. It felt like there was nothing left to hide as Tiffany returned each and every one of her kisses. She could feel Jessica shivering under her touch and Tiffany refused to show her own trembling under hers. She melted every time their lips met and never wanted to part. It was all she needed knowing that Jessica loved her.

For what seemed like eternity, they finally parted. Jessica’s hands refused to move as Tiffany smiled so beautifully to her, her eyes shaped into those crescents that Jessica had first taken notice to.

“Me too,” she replied, ending it with a small peck.

~~~~~~~~

Luna had fallen asleep when suddenly she felt something in her hand move. Luna stirred as she realized that it was Onew’s fingers moving and she quickly pressed the button for the doctors.

Onew started to open his eyes, too weak to do anything else. Heavy breathing released from his mouth as he tried to talk. Luna leaned closer to hear the words he had to say.

“1…9…” he breathed out, indicating a pause. “5…8…9…1...”

Luna stared at him in bewilderment as the doctors rushed in, forcing her to move back. 195891. What was that supposed to be?

Chapter Twenty One

Tiffany leaned onto Jessica’s shoulder as they both sat side by side, backs against the wall at the front of Jessica’s bed. The silence was serene, each other’s presence making it comfortable. Tiffany’s hand matched perfectly with Jessica’s and it made Tiffany suddenly very curious about her.

“Jessica, when was the first time you kissed someone?” Tiffany asked faking innocence and watched Jessica’s expression change into one of disgrace.

“I uh…am a rather reserved person in general,” she stuttered, trying to make it a bit less pathetic than it really was. “I don’t…do that very often to anyone…Yuri once compared me to a rock because of it…”

“You’re dodging my question. Just tell me,” Tiffany persuaded with a grin. Jessica closed her eyes in shame.

“Yuri kissed me to shut me up not too long ago…” she muttered. Tiffany stared at her, stunned at her answer. With one look at Tiffany’s expression, Jessica hastened to explain.

“But she forced me on that one so it shouldn’t count! It wasn’t anything romantic. It was just her way to get everyone to shut up. She told me it was for emergency reasons and that the drawbacks were attachment and having a stalker following you for life but in no way do I feel like that for her,” Jessica blurted out desperately. “She and I are just friends, sisters and nothing else.”

It was like performing CPR on something that was already dead. Better yet, she should just bury herself. Tiffany’s expression didn’t change a bit.

“You mean that that incident only happened recently?” she gasped in surprise. “I mean, from everyone else I heard that you went through a switch of many girlfriends and you must had have a life before you worked.”

Jessica slumped, defeated.

“Thanks a lot,” a mutter escaped.

“No, I’m just really surprised that’s all,” Tiffany quickly saved. “It’s not a bad thing.”

“Yea well, those ‘girlfriends’ weren’t really girlfriends alright? I don’t feel much for them…it’s all Yuri’s fault,” she mumbled and turned red.

Tiffany had to giggle.

“Wow…”

“Does that mean you kissed a lot of other people?” Jessica had to ask, though not sure if she wanted to answer or not. Tiffany looked up at the ceiling as if thinking deeply.

“Um…”

The amount of thought placed into it told Jessica the answer.

“Don’t answer me,” she ordered grumpily and Tiffany grinned.

“Definitely not as much as you think I have, alright?”

Jessica didn’t quite believe her and Tiffany decided to go back to Jessica’s personal life.

“So say Yuri’s ‘emergency plan’ was not your first kiss-“

“Of course it wasn’t! It was sexual harassment! When Yuri comes back, I’ll have her arrested for that and throw her in jail,” Jessica added furiously. Tiffany smiled. It was no longer the word ‘if’ that Jessica used. It had switched to ‘when’ meaning that Jessica believed that eventually Yuri would indeed return.

“So when was your first, willingly given, kiss?” Tiffany questioned again. Jessica turned redder, if possible, than before.

“I uh…kind of kissed you when you were asleep that day we were out,” she said in barely a whisper. Tiffany was again in shock but only because what she thought was simply a fantasy was actually real. And she was her first kiss? Keke.

It scared Jessica silly when Tiffany burst out laughing. She was the next Tickle Me Elmo, Jessica was certain. Tiffany then turned to face Jessica with teasing eyes.

“You know, under the circumstances that I wasn’t aware of this first kiss, it could be deemed as sexual harassment as well. I guess you and Yuri can share a cell down in prison,” she said, letting out a fake sigh and shaking her head in disapproval. “I’ll probably make a visit once every few months.”

Jessica made a face at her before grinning victoriously.

“Well, the moment Yoona gets up, she’ll set us free,” she announced without doubt. “Then I’ll get all of WYE team to hunt you down as revenge for sending me there.”

Their laughs were harmonious as they thought of this ridiculous future yet it was this that showed their renewed beliefs. Everything would be alright. Even if more trouble bothers them, they would do all they could to face it and both Jessica and Tiffany knew that they were supported by many. They would make it right again. Together, they would have a future.

~~~~~~~~

“195891,” Hyoyeon repeated after Luna had informed them of Onew’s condition and what he said on the phone. They were all at the office again the next day, sitting in the office living room, thinking. The remaining five tried their best to think of what possibly could have those numbers.

“Could it be a time? If we space each of them…” Sooyoung suggested and immediately realized that it could not be it. 19:58 and 91 seconds? Impossible.

“Never mind,” she saved and it went back to silence.

“The number of the building maybe?” Seohyun then offered but Hyoyeon shook her head.

“The building was numbered 1659. Doesn’t match.”

“Is it possible that Onew saw these numbers when he was looking at the bomb? Maybe not the time but something else?” Tiffany asked.

“Well, can’t prove it even if it is. It exploded,” Sooyoung reminded her with shrug. Jessica had yet to make a suggestion for she too had nothing brilliant to offer.

“If Onew remembers it, it has to be something important and still of use right now. Not something that is already done and gone,” Jessica reasoned, throwing her cup from her right hand to left, fidgeting in thought. “He must of said it knowing that we could still use it for something.”

Distracted, Jessica threw her cup over and failed to catch it. The cup dropped to the floor and shattered. Hastily, Jessica reached to pick it up and met its sharp edge. Her fingers bled. Tiffany rushed over, taking her hand into her own.

“Are you okay?” she asked worriedly, taking tissue to wipe it immediately. Jessica stared at her fingers and did not hear Tiffany speaking to her. Tiffany’s worry intensified.

“Jessica, Jessica,” she called and finally Jessica snapped out of her trance.

“Sorry what?”

“I said are you alright. Does it hurt?” Tiffany asked, quickly bandaging it. Jessica blinked and then a smile formed.

“No, don’t worry about it. It didn’t hurt,” Jessica replied, her heart warming simply by how much she cared over something little like this. The others raised a brow but decided to let it pass…for now.

“Continuing on, we found nothing nearby the site that had those numbers. It’s not short enough to be part of a street name but not long enough to be a barcode for anything either,” Hyoyeon explained.

The problem was that Onew was still in the hospital, only woken momentarily to spit out those numbers and nothing else. The doctor said he might still be in shock over what happened and those numbers had to mean something extremely important for him to even remember it. But still, the doctor said he will recover in time.

“Maybe he was planning to use $1958.91 to buy Luna’s future wedding ring,” Sooyoung joked trying her best to lighten the atmosphere. Soft chuckles came from the members but right after the phone rang.

Jessica went over to pick up the phone with her bandaged fingers.

“Hello? WYE team’s Jessica Jung speaking.”

The four watched her, noticing several nods and a genuine smile formed. It had to be good news. Jessica set the phone done and Tiffany walked over to ask.

“What’s up?”

Jessica was smiling so widely that the tips were soon to reach her ears.

“Yoona’s awake Tiffany. She’s awake.”

Tiffany’s smile soon matched hers and everybody was thrilled with the news. Jessica embraced Tiffany tightly, her smile still visible shown over her shoulder. Relief washed over the entire room and finally an anxious part in their hearts settled.

“I told you everything will turn back to normal,” Tiffany said lightly over her shoulder. Jessica closed her eyes in agreement. With Tiffany’s reassurance, she believed that everything was possible.

The three in the back smiled warmly for there were three things to celebrate. Onew was alive and within time, he would be alright again. Yoona had finally awoken and was in no immediate danger. And lastly, for Jessica and Tiffany.

The trio rolled their eyes simultaneously, laughing as they thought of the same thing.

Finally.

~~~~~~~

Yoona waited impatiently for the next nurse to come by. She was sitting on her hospital bed and her clothes were of a patients but Yoona was feeling perfectly fine. When a nurse finally entered, Yoona hastened to ask.

“Do you know where my clothes are? The one I came in with? I need it right now,” Yoona asked urgently. The nurse gave her a weird look but abided. Soon after, she returned with Yoona’s dirty clothes and Yoona was glad to see it untouched.

“Thank you,” Yoona said and the nurse exited the room. Once gone, Yoona took her coat and checked the insides very carefully. Unknown to anyone but her, this jacket had a inner pocket that one would not notice unless they wore it themselves. Unzipping it, she breathed out in relief. They were both still in there.

Yoona grabbed the flash card and Gyuri’s cell phone. Sadness washed over her as she thought of the last time she looked at Gyuri. Determined to finish what Gyuri started, Yoona turned the phone on. It responded miraculously and Yoona quickly scanned through its contacts list. Judging by the lack of contacts in this phone, it was clearly used for contacting Gyuri’s sources only. She was searching for Nicole.

Yoona frowned when she couldn’t find it for all the English names seemed male. She finally rested on one name that said Jung Yong Joo. Though uncertain if that was right, Yoona dialed.

~~~~~~~~

Yuri woke up very early and was now stretching. She was so stressed and bothered with thoughts yet she needed to be fit and ready if something were to happen. Yuri promised herself that she could not give up. One day, she would have to go back. Her hand was recovering just fine, her body no longer aching and sore. Yuri almost jumped in shock when Nicole’s cell phone rang. Yuri hesitated as to whether she should take it or not for Nicole had left momentarily to talk to the guy who ran this stinky motel. Picking the phone up, the caller ID was Gyuri. She was alive.

Yuri quickly pressed talk and held it to her ear.

“Gyuri!”

The sound of silence answered her. It was only after a few seconds did a voice speak.

“I’m sorry but this isn’t Gyuri. Is this Nicole?” the voice said uncertainly.

Yuri felt her entire body freeze up, her eyes widening in shock. She didn’t know whether she should be relieved that she was alive or scared senseless that she had Gyuri’s phone. She recognized that voice.

“My name is Yoona and I’m sorry but Gyuri is dead,” Yoona explained regretfully.

It was now Yuri’s turn to be speechless. Gyuri was dead. That confirmed Nicole and her fear. The explosion was indeed targeted at them. Somebody found out the connection between Nicole, Yuri and Gyuri and hastened to kill Gyuri first.

“Yoona…” Yuri breathed out and heard a gasp in the other end of the phone. Yoona now knew who was speaking on the other side and it was not Nicole. It was Kwon Yuri.

~~~~~~~~

Yuri did not say much, stressing that they could not talk long on an insecure line. Yoona could not believe that it was Yuri who answered. Her heart swelled with emotions that she could not explain. Nicole had then taken over the conversation when she returned.

“I have something that belongs to Gyuri. It also belongs to you two,” Yoona explained to Nicole. “I know everything.”

Yuri had informed Nicole of the unexpected addition. Nicole was hesitant but Yoona held onto something that belonged to Gyuri. She needed to know what it was.

“We need to meet,” Nicole stated firmly. Her inclusion may result in many problems and endanger her. That someone who burned the entire building must have realized the connection by now. Gyuri and some other person that worked for the police all in one supposed unknown setting where Gyuri meets up with her secret sources. Yoona could be in danger.

“But you can’t tell Jessica,” Nicole stressed while Yoona argued. “Not yet. I’m not sure how this would all work out if she knew. To her, both Yuri and I are criminals and we have no proof that we’re not without Gyuri. Whether she wants Yuri back or not, it’d be her job to arrest us.”

“We can’t fight alone,” Yoona disputed and received a pause.

“As of right now, we have to,” Nicole said in a tone that informed Yoona it was no use to convince her otherwise. “Yuri is coming to pick you up right now. We need to plan all over again.”

And the phone call ended. Yoona got up to pull all the blinds down and quickly changed. Her clothes still smelt like smoke but Yoona ignored it. Torn at random parts, Yoona threw her jacket back on, placing the card as well as phone in the usual safe spot.

Yoona poked her head out the door, making sure no one was around to see her escape. She was sorry she couldn’t tell Jessica anything but as of right now, she needed to obey Nicole’s orders. Yoona wouldn’t even dare to think of Jessica’s reaction if she knew Yoona was sneaking away. Well, she doubted the hospital had contacted them yet since she woke up only a while ago. The hospital was not efficient like that, not when they had a bunch of others to worry about.

Coast clear, she darted out and took the back stairs down.

~~~~~~~

Jessica was delighted to hear that Yoona was awake. Within seconds, the others had agreed that Jessica and Tiffany could go see her first. The hospital parking lot was so damn crowded with people staying overnight meant that Tiffany had to hunt for someplace empty while Jessica, who couldn’t wait, went up first.

As the elevator opened, she was surprised to see Sunny in there.

“Hello Jessica. Are you here to see Yoona as well?” Sunny asked and Jessica nodded, stunned. She thought no one could beat her in a race to see Yoona but apparently Sunny did.

“Hi…um yea, I am. I guess you heard that she’s awake too huh,” Jessica said, scratching her head in bewilderment. Sunny smiled as the door closed.

“Well, as her boss/teacher/friend, I should come and see her first,” Sunny explained, a little jittery, and Jessica nodded in agreement. The elevator rose slowly and Sunny patted her jean pockets, her expression exasperated.

“Oh shoot, I forgot my keys in the car again,” she said hurriedly and pressed the button to the next floor. The door opened and Sunny headed out.

“I’ll go down from another elevator. Guess you get to see her first still,” Sunny announced and Jessica gave a shrug. “See you later.”

The next ding told Jessica she was on the right floor and as she took a step out, she heard another door slam. Confused, but could not care less, Jessica ignored it and headed to Yoona’s room. Jessica pushed the door to her room open. Yoona wasn’t there. Bewildered, Jessica stepped out the room and searched in all the other rooms that were on the floor and even the washroom. No one.

A nurse passed by and Jessica quickly called for her.

“Hey, do you know where the patient is from that room over there? Her name is Im Yoona.”

“She was there a while ago. I’m not sure anymore but just a while ago she requested for her own clothes back.”

That slamming of door didn’t seem so meaningless now. Turning her back towards the befuddled nurse, Jessica sprinted down after her.

~~~~~~

Yoona looked back over her shoulder, relieved that no one was following. Walking swiftly away from the hospital from the back, she knew she was searching for Yuri. In a matter of seconds, she found a silhouette of a girl wearing dark clothes and a baseball cap.

Yuri could not hide her happiness when she saw her alive and well. That happiness blocked out all the worries that Yuri was so bothered with just moments ago. The sight of Yoona made her forget everything.

Yuri rushed to meet her and embraced her so tightly it surprised even Yoona. Yuri backed up and her hand cupped Yoona’s face, afraid that this was not real, that it was a dream. Yuri’s hand trembled as if holding something fragile and precious.

“I can’t believe I can see you again…I can’t,” Yuri whispered, a tear running down her own cheek. It had been such a close call. Yoona’s lifeless body back in the building scared her. Even after she was sent to the hospital, the fear of her not being able to wake brought back the nightmare she had the previous night.

Yoona’s hand touched Yuri’s, reassuring her.

“I’m really here. I heard you in the dark. I heard you call my name.”

Yoona smiled for she knew it really had been Yuri who came to find her. In the haze, her brain almost shutting down completely, she heard someone shout her name. She could never forget that voice. It belonged to only Yuri.

Right now, there was no logic in Yuri’s mind. She couldn’t care for what Nicole would do to her for wasting time like this. She couldn’t care for what Jessica would do to her if she saw her do this. All she saw now was Yoona.

Yuri captured Yoona’s lips with such desire that reflected how long she had waited. Yuri pulled Yoona closer to deepen their kiss and Yoona complied to all her wants and desires. Holding Yuri felt so unreal but she had never felt anything more pleasurable than to kiss the one she had been secretly waiting for.

They finally parted, breathing heavily. Their eyes met each other’s and Yuri finally dared to say what she couldn’t ever since she met her.

“I love you Yoona. I really do. I can’t lie to you anymore,” she breathed and leaned in for another kiss when she noticed that someone was watching them.

Yuri’s eyes widened in horror when she saw Jessica looking at them. The two quickly broke apart as if caught doing something they shouldn’t. Yoona moved in front of Yuri, shielding her.

“Jessica-“ Yoona wanted to explain but Jessica already had her gun out.

Chapter Twenty Two

A thousand emotions rushed into her. She could not believe that she had finally found her but here of all places and with Yoona.

“You…” Jessica hissed, staring straight at Yuri.

“Jessica you got to listen,” Yoona started but with one glare, Yoona fell silent. Instead of letting Yoona shield her, Yuri took a step forward, ready for whatever Jessica had to offer. For all she’d done, she deserved it. Jessica’s gaze returned to Yuri as she moved closer.

“Lies. They were all lies and you disappeared right after. And the first thing I hear about you was like a bomb to me. Stealing IoSeph? Lying about why you were quitting? Fake contact numbers? What the hell have you been doing Kwon Yuri?” Jessica seethed in pure resentment. It was obvious she wasn’t looking for an answer.

“Jessica, I had my reasons for lying,” Yuri started but Jessica shook her head, disregarding what she had to say.

“Why does everyone like to say ‘I have my reasons’?” Jessica questioned her, the volume of her voice rising. “Are there really so many reasons that one can’t just simply say it?!”

“I didn’t think it was necessary to bother anyone with my problems. There wasn’t a point to make other people worried,” she replied apprehensively, explaining her decision.

“And you think leaving us a bunch of unanswered questions doesn’t make us worried?” Jessica threw back incredulously, the distance between the two decreasing.

“You know what I hate about you?” Jessica shouted at her. “It’s that you always go around pretending to be the most carefree person in the world but you’re actually hiding the biggest mess imaginable. Your family, your love, everything is just chaos! It actually worries us more that you don’t bother us. It’s to the point I wonder whether we really are important to you or not!”

Jessica’s gaze suddenly turned to Yoona. Yoona avoided it, looking down to the floor uncertainly. She had also asked herself that very question. A sinking feeling developed inside Yuri as she listened to those words.

“Are we your friends? Are we your family? Do you trust us enough to even tell us your troubles? Did we do something wrong for you not to, to hide everything from us? These are all questions I asked myself countless of times the moment you left. I really wondered. What are we to you?”

Yuri gaped, not knowing what to say. She had never thought of it this way, how she had made everyone feel.

“And in the end, I really don’t know anymore,” Jessica stated with a shrug. “What I do know for sure is that I’m a cop whose job is to catch the ones who threaten the safety of others. You disappeared Yuri. You were involved in something illegal and as a cop, you know it’s my duty to arrest you. You also know exactly how much I hate to let a criminal go.”

And Yuri did. Yuri’s eyes widened as the tip of Jessica’s gun met her chest.

Yoona clung onto Jessica’s arm but Jessica refused to move.

Her gun never budged despite how Yoona tried. Yuri didn’t do anything, frozen and staring straight into Jessica’s fierce gaze.

“Jessica please stop this,” Yoona begged, pulling on her arm. Ignoring her, Jessica’s thumb pushed down the hammer, the sharp click indicating she was ready to fire. Yuri shut her eyes as she pulled the trigger.

A gun went off but nothing came out. The sharp clunk indicated its emptiness and Yuri slowly opened her eyes. Yoona froze as she stared at the gun and back at Jessica. Jessica’s expression did not change, unsmiling as she slowly lowered her weapon. Never had she done anything like this. It betrayed all her values and beliefs. Her fist clenched but her gaze returned to Yuri.

“I’ve done my part as a cop,” she said almost inaudibly. Jessica was shaking. “I didn’t see you today. That’s because I believe in you and I know that you Kwon Yuri is still my best friend no matter what you think of me.”

Jessica took one last glance at Yoona and Yoona immediately withdrew her hands. Yoona’s mouth twitched, wanting to tell Jessica everything right now but under Nicole’s orders, she couldn’t, not to mention they had absolutely no proof now that everything was destroyed in flames.

Jessica didn’t know what was going on. Jessica stared at them waiting for either one of them to explain but she knew nothing was going to come out. It hurt her neither Yoona nor Yuri would speak to her but the world didn’t revolve around her. Instead of that craving to solve what was in front of her, only one thing echoed in her mind and in her heart.

I trusted you. I still do.

“Are you going to go with her?” she asked softly, breaking the silence and Yoona nodded, determined.

Jessica took a deep breath, swallowing slowly. At one point of her life, she would have done everything she could to stop her but Yoona didn’t need this from her. Things have changed. Jessica accepted Yoona’s decision because it was what she wanted. Jessica couldn’t stop her. She wouldn’t stop her.

She lifted her gun for Yoona to take. Yoona stared at it and back at Jessica, taken aback. This was Jessica’s gun, the one that she had since the beginning and had never parted with. The scars on the sleek silver revealed its age and loyalty. Now, Yoona was its new owner. Jessica didn’t look at her as she pushed it into her hands, only focusing on the ground.

“She’s a part of my family, same as you,” she said quietly to Yuri. “If harm comes to any of you…”

Jessica shook her head, blinking her fears away.

“This is your final warning. Don’t let me see you again.”

With that said, Jessica turned around, leaving the two frozen and stunned. Jessica’s hands stuffed into her jean pockets as she walked further and further away. When did she learn how to say such things? Did she do the right thing? She truly wondered. What happened to the cold and fierce leader of WYE team?

She returned to the hospital, searching for Tiffany. Because of Tiffany, Yoona, Yuri, Seohyun, Hyoyeon, Sooyoung and Onew, she’d turn soft and Jessica wanted to stay that way.

~~~~~~~~~

Yuri stared at the retreating back of Jessica, her hand placed where Jessica’s gun had just been. Yoona let out the breath she had been holding since Jessica found them and looked down at Jessica’s gun in her possession. She had been so scared that Jessica might actually carry out her job properly but in the end, it had been them that took first place.

“That gun had no bullets,” Yoona said softly, her admiration for Jessica once again growing as well as her guilt. Yuri took her hand, promising silently to Jessica that she would do everything she could to keep them both safe.

“Jessica never miscounts, especially not when it involves her gun,” Yuri finally said with a smile. Tugging Yoona gently to follow, they both disappeared into the shadows. Nicole was waiting for them.

The two slipped into the vehicle with Nicole as driver, Yuri in shotgun and Yoona in the back. Yoona’s hand fingered the cell phone in her jacket with slight uncertainty. Pulling it out and making sure the two in front were focused on the roads, Yoona turned it on, entering a familiar number.

~~~~~~~~~

“Ha!” Tiffany cheered as she finally forced a space in the parking lot to stick Jessica’s motorcycle in. The bike was squished between two cars, illegally parked and Tiffany was proud beyond words. Police officer or not, Tiffany had found a spot in the midst of gazillion of cars. That had to be applauded for. She was sure Jessica would be proud too for Jessica would probably do the same thing and with Jessica’s authority, they could avoid a ticket no problem.

Tiffany faked locking it with a beep, playing and too thrilled about her own brilliance. Literally skipping to the hospital, Tiffany decided that she should check in with Onew since Jessica was visiting Yoona.

The elevator ride up was quick and Tiffany exited, taking two lefts until she found the room where Onew was staying. After knocking, she let herself enter.

“Hey, how are you?” Tiffany asked him gently. No answer.

Onew stared blankly at the window across, sitting cross legged on his bed, bandaged hands on his lap. He looked slightly out of focus and Tiffany felt sadness all over again. This was Onew, the one who would smile so brightly at the slightest things, whose voice was the life and soul of WYE team and one who would take care of them like a brother. Under his clothes were scars that would never leave.

Tiffany slowly approached him and saw him flinch the moment she got closer. Eyes wandered as if examining an unfamiliar person. Onew pushed himself to the front of his bed, pulling his legs in as if shielding himself against her.

“Onew,” Tiffany started softly. “I’m Tiffany.”

Onew stared at her like a frightened child but at the sound of her name, he calmed down just a little. Tiffany sat down at the corner of his bed, hoping that Onew would remember that she was his friend.

“How have you been?” Tiffany asked, hoping to start a light conversation. Onew’s head shook left and right frantically , as if saying no. He let his head rest on his hand, looking as if he was thinking hard. As to what, Tiffany didn’t know.

“We really miss you Onew,” Tiffany tried again, her volume rising slightly. “We can’t wait to you come back.”

A distraction came and then Onew was no longer listening to her. Unexpectedly, his gaze was aimed at his open hand. Tiffany looked at his bandaged palm and couldn’t understand where the sudden interest came from.

“Onew?” Tiffany called for him but he just kept staring, not giving a single indication that he heard.

“Give him some time.”

Luna had returned, giving her a small smile. Tiffany knew Luna must be very tired for she had been taking care of Onew during this time as well as having to explain and comfort Onew’s parents as well. Luna however still smiled like her usual self.

“How have you been?” Tiffany asked.

“I’m fine and thanks for asking. He’s getting a lot better. He still can’t speak from the shock and the accident has limited his movements but he is improving,” Luna explained quietly, as if trying not to startle Onew.

“The doctor says it will take him a while to get over the shock,” Luna finished and Tiffany nodded. At this point, they could only accept what had happened and pray for the best.

“I’m sure the next time you come to visit he will be better already,” Luna added optimistically and Tiffany smiled. Tiffany turned back to Onew who was now sitting on the very edge of his bed, staring outside the window except right now his fingers were moving. It looked as if he was holding something invisible in his palm, his thumb moving up, down, left, and right.

Luna and Tiffany stared at him, confused as to what he was doing. What was he looking at? There was no one outside and there was nothing in his hand either. With the excessive movements, Onew’s hand was put into a lot of strain for they have not healed fully yet. He was opening his wound and slowly the bandage around it was revealing a bit of red. Luna was first to move to his side, shocked and worried.

“Are you okay? Is there something wrong?”

Onew didn’t answer. His thumb kept moving in an organized sequence again and again yet at the very end of the sequence there was always a pause as if he had forgotten what came next. Despite the pain, he carried on. Tiffany now had a frown on, watching carefully as to what he was doing. Her hand slowly lifted to imitate what he was doing. It didn’t make sense to her but it bothered her immensely.

Onew looked down at his open hand, thinking deeply all by himself while repeating the same movements. Luna shot Tiffany a scared look, not sure as to what was going on in his mind.

“Should we call a doctor?” Luna asked frantically, her hand on Onew’s shoulder. Instead of waiting for an answer, Luna quickly ran to the button at the side of his bed. Nothing seemed to be able to deter him from his trance though for even when the doctor came, he refused to move from his position, hand still moving, eyes fixed. When the doctor and nurses tried to force him back, he even rejected them by pushing them away, too focused on his hand.

“I think it’s best that you two leave right now,” the doctor suggested as he with others tried to force him back to the front and lie down. Though reluctant, Luna and Tiffany was forced to leave, filled with worry for Onew. It was as if he suddenly gone mad, preventing anyone that could put an end to whatever he was doing.

Tiffany’s hand was on the handle when all of a sudden, they heard Onew scream.

“Four!” he yelled, fighting the nurses. “Four!”

Tiffany swerved and found that Onew was looking at her. He was shouting the number four at her, specifically to her. The doctor pushed the two out before they could stay any longer and hurried back to restrain the out of control patient.

“FOUR!”

“We need to stabilize him,” was the last thing they heard from the doctor as the door slammed shut.

Four…four…four...

The number echoed in her head as Tiffany left his room. What was Onew saying to her? Tiffany waited for her brain to find some connection but her mind didn’t comprehend. Her footsteps echoed in the halls, automatically leading her to the elevators though her mind was on something else.

Without even realizing it, her thumb was moving in the sequence Onew was just doing. Tiffany stared down at her hand, which at the moment was moving by itself. Her eyes followed where her thumb landed on thin air.

Top left. Bottom right. Center. Down one. Then beside it to the right. Top left.

And then there was a pause, just like how Onew always ended. Her hand suddenly clenched into a tight fist. Tiffany’s eyes were wide when it finally struck. Her heart pounded as the mystery finally unsolved itself. The last of this sequence. Because of Onew, she had found it. Her thumb shook as she lifted her thumb from the last position down one.

Center Left.

Chapter Twenty Three

Her phone vibrated and Jessica reached into her back pocket. Jessica looked onto the screen and found that she had a new message but the number was unfamiliar. It contained a single line.

pw. YA53090

Jessica stared at the message. YA…it was obvious now that Yoona had sent this to her. It was a password to something but right after their departure…this made her wonder. Jessica placed her phone back into her pocket, her mind filled with thoughts but was broken into at the sight of Tiffany.

Tiffany was running towards her, halting just in time before they crashed. Her face was pale, lips dry as if just finished running a marathon.

“Are you okay?” Jessica asked worriedly and Tiffany shook her head.

“Onew…numbers,” Tiffany panted from her run.

“What about them?” Jessica asked immediately as Tiffany was still trying to catch her breath.

Tiffany positioned herself right beside Jessica, showing what she had just learned. Her hand was up, grasping thin air and her thumb performed the sequence Onew had showed her.

Jessica stared at what Tiffany was trying to show her, slightly confused. Following her thumb, Jessica imagined a grid of some sort but couldn’t quite pinpoint what kind. As if something struck, the way Tiffany’s hand was held up and her thumb movements looked suddenly very familiar to Jessica, to anyone for that matter. She had just seen this a while ago.

Jessica’s hand delve back into her back pocket and pulled out her cell phone. Jessica looked down at the keypad and then imitated Tiffany’s movement.

Top left. One. Bottom right. Nine. Center. Five. Down one. Eight. Then beside it to the right. Nine. Top left. One.

It slowly dawned. 195891. 195-891…and the last position. Jessica pressed her thumb down, letting the last number surface on the screen.

Center Left. Four.

“It’s a number Jessica. A number,” Tiffany breathed out. Redialing with the area code, Jessica pressed the numbers back in. She pressed her ear against her cell but no one picked up. The person on the other side would not pick up an unfamiliar number. Jessica’s eyes wandered, thinking deeply.

“If…just if…” Jessica started and Tiffany listened. “that day the bomb was set, Onew saw someone, maybe from afar, doing such motions on a phone-“

“-and because of his photographic memory, Onew could easily relate those movements to numbers on the keypad,” Tiffany continued, catching on immediately. “He remembered those numbers as the phone number that the person he saw was dialing to.”

Jessica nodded, agreeing with her theory.

“That person who he saw had to be the one who set the bomb. If we could find a record of whoever dialed to this number then we can trace back to him or her.”

“But wouldn’t there be too many people?”

“No, because this number is not dialed by some regular person Tiffany. It was a person who bombed an entire building and it just so happened to be where Gyuri was. This person is related to the IoSeph group as well as to the police force. He or she is someone close.”

Tiffany closed her mouth tight as Jessica entered another number into her phone.

“Hello, WYE team Seohyun speaking,” the cell answered.

“Seohyun, look up this number 195-8914 right now and send me the list of numbers that had dialed to it. I want the number, the date, as well as the person registered under each if it’s possible.”

Jessica waited silently with Tiffany listening in from the back of her cell. They could hear some quick taping on Seohyun’s end.

“The number you gave me is unregistered but I can still work around that. Unnie, what is this for?”

“A link,” was all Jessica said. Seohyun accepted it and before they knew it, a message reached Jessica’s phone.

Jessica placed the phone down, scrolling through the list. It was long, having dates to even when they had just started taking on the IoSeph case. Jessica’s eyes quickly scanned the long list and found that one number in particular was repeated most in the more recent days, including the one when the building was bombed.

This phone number was unregistered like the one it was dialing to. Shifting the screen over side to side, frustrated at the lack of information, Jessica almost crushed her phone, willing it to break only to have Tiffany pull it out of her hands.

“Seohyun, can’t you track down the location of the phone?”

Quick tapping came from the other end of the phone as Tiffany waited patiently while Jessica pressed her ear on its back.

Seohyun watched as her screen transform into a map, the red dot indicating where the phone was. It was moving, most likely in a car but it soon stopped. Seohyun’s eyes narrowed, enlarging the map enough to see where it was exactly. The dot was moving again but a lot slower. The owner had gotten out.

Seohyun blinked as she recognized the location. Rolling her seat to the other end of her desk, she located another computer. Typing away, the monitor was then divided into nine sections. It was the camera system of the police headquarters and in one of them, she saw her.

“Tiffany unnie,” she started slowly. “The phone…it belongs to Sunny unnie.”

Tiffany swallowed to wet her dry throat before she spoke, unable to believe it.

“Sunny. The head of forensic Lee Sunny,” she repeated, making sure she had not heard wrong.

Jessica stared at her phone dumbfounded at the outcome. Sunny, the one Jessica had worked with for years, was the traitor amongst them?

“But she came to see Yoona or well was going to but her keys…” Jessica stuttered and then it hit her.

“Sunny had her keys…she had it,” Tiffany said, voicing out exactly what Jessica was thinking. If Sunny was the one who bombed the building without even looking back, then everything changed. She didn’t get a call from the hospital, only Jessica did. Sunny came to find Yoona not to see if she was alright but to finish her job. Killing her.

What Sunny didn’t know was that Yoona was awake and that Jessica would come see her the same time she was going to finish her off. Going back down was just an excuse. She knew she couldn’t kill Yoona if Jessica was there.

“We have to go back to office. Now.”

~~~~~~~

“Sooyoung unnie, Hyoyeon unnie,” Seohyun called for her two unnies after receiving a very disturbing call from Jessica.

“Jessica unnie and Tiffany unnie found out what the numbers mean. It was the number that the bomber had dialed and the person is Sunny unnie!”

Sooyoung and Hyoyeon stared at her as if she went nuts.

“What? Huh?” they immediately responded. Seohyun licked her lips, unsure of how it happened too but everything clicked in her brilliant mind right away.

“Oh my god! Sunny unnie is the culprit! She was one of the few that knew where Damian shi was locked up in and could get pass the security! And then Yoona unnie’s laptop had been hacked into ages ago and because it is always in the lab, only someone with access and is as close to her as Sunny unnie could’ve done something to it! I thought it was only something minor but but but…I screwed up! That means everything I sent to Yoona unnie, Sunny unnie had access to it as well! That means all of Gyuri unnie’s information is in Sunny unnie’s hand! That means she knew that Yoona unnie was going to find Gyuri unnie and where! That means the one Onew oppa saw was Sunny unnie! That means she bombed the building! And Jessica unnie said Sunny unnie went to find Yoona unnie to kill her! ASKDJFHSDJKF!”

Seohyun was pacing around in circles as she blurted out everything, hands in the air and speaking in a language Sooyoung and Hyoyeon did not comprehend. At least not at that speed. Seohyun was a rapper legend.

“Uh…sorry can you repeat that really slowly?,” Sooyoung asked politely. “I just heard a load of ‘unnies’”

“At such times Seohyunnie, formalities can be dropped okay? Just a heads up for next time,” Hyoyeon explained to her lightly in agreement to Sooyoung. “And god did I hear a Damian shi?”

Seohyun gave them the most pitiful expression as she shouted out one last time.

“The traitor among us is Sunny unnie and she’s in this building right now!” she yelled at them and that was enough for Hyoyeon and Sooyoung both to understand. They gave each other a shocked look before Seohyun continued on.

“Jessica unnie said we have to get to her before she could do anymore damage and erase any evidence! If we can also get a hold of Sunny unnie’s personal computer first then I can prove that Sunny unnie has access to Yoona unnie’s laptop meaning that she knew where Gyuri unnie secretly meets.”

Seohyun spun around, checking back on her computer.

“She’s already in the elevators!” she squealed.

“Lab or office?” Hyoyeon demanded. From this angle, the camera couldn’t catch it. Instead of waiting for Seohyun to check the elevator status, Hyoyeon’s impatience won over.

“Stay here, Seohyun,” Hyoyeon demanded and both Sooyoung and herself, darted out of the office. They needed to beat her in either of those places.

Bolting down stairs, the two split themselves, one heading to Sunny’s personal office and the other to the lab.

Sooyoung reached the lab and cursed for her keycard did not work to open it. The only two now authorized to it was Yoona and Sunny due to their research on IoSeph.

Hyoyeon too hit a dead end like Sooyoung when she reached Sunny’s office. It was locked and it required Sunny to open it. Hyoyeon took her gun out and shot until the lock went haywire and with an all powerful kick, the door flung open. Gaining access quickly, Hyoyeon searched and searched for Sunny’s hidden laptop. Her cell rang.

“Did you get anything?” Sooyoung asked through the phone.

“How in the world do you expect me to find it two seconds after I get in?!?” Hyoyeon shouted at her. “The door was locked!”

Sooyoung chuckled even at this time.

“You should have been like me. I expertly took out my phone, my fingers pressing rapidly on those troublesome numbers and dialed for Seohyun. She opened it in a flash,” Sooyoung laughed and Hyoyeon banged her head against the desk. Why didn’t she think of that?

“You suck. Now do your job and find something!”

Sooyoung stopped laughing and started the search herself. It was a complete mess by the time they searched their individual rooms. Papers littered the floor and decorations askewed, Hyoyeon surveyed the office suspiciously. Could there possibly be a spot they missed?

Hyoyeon bent down low, having her body flat on the ground. Her eyes surveyed the bottom and suddenly noticed something different. Hyoyeon crawled forward, closer and closer to the bottom of the bookshelf. Her finger slipped into the tiny gap between the bookshelf and the wall. She was right. What she saw was a button.

Forget the damn button. Hyoyeon got back to her feet and wrenched the bookshelf down without a care as to where it landed. Behind was a gap in the wall, enough space to hide Sunny’s laptop, weapons and files. She could not believe that innocent Sunny bunny would have something like this. Hyoyeon thought their biggest threat from her was her unstoppable aegyo.

“Sooyoung,” Hyoyeon started but Sooyoung already interrupted her.

“I found these weird flasks filled with liquids hidden in the corner. Is that important?” Sooyoung asked dumbfounded, holding her cell phone with her shoulder and ear while her hands were occupied by the flasks.

Suddenly she heard footsteps but as soon as it came, the person ran away. Sooyoung hurriedly placed the flasks back down and sprinted after her. Sunny was in the lead, pressing the elevator doors open and closed it before Sooyoung could make it. Sooyoung’s hands slammed into the closed doors and she cursed.

“Sunny’s going back up!” she screamed into her phone and immediately turned back to the stairs. Sooyoung eventually met up with Hyoyeon who now carried a laptop in her hands and together they were going back up again by the same stairs they ran down from.

Hyoyeon was the first to bolt out to the lobby, believing that she could only escape from this floor. Hyoyeon’s heart stopped when she noticed that the elevator zoomed passed this floor and kept going up. It stopped at their floor, where Seohyun was all alone.

Chapter Twenty Four

Sooyoung, unlike Hyoyeon, ran back up. Taking Hyoyeon’s laptop with her, she darted upwards to find Seohyun. Arriving at their floor, she squeezed herself through the glass doors before it opened fully to find the scariest sight she had ever seen. Sunny had Seohyun at gunpoint.

“Give me that laptop now or I’ll kill her,” Sunny demanded, her gun aimed at the back of Seohyun’s head.

Sooyoung raised her hands, trying her best not to provoke an attack.

“Don’t do anything hasty Sunny. This is Seohyun we’re talking about here. You don’t want to hurt her.”

Sunny flinched at her words but her aim didn’t budge. She didn’t want to either.

“Slide the laptop over right now,” she ordered but faltered. “I have to get it back.”

Sooyoung took at step forward and Sunny clicked the hammer.

“Don’t you dare come any closer!” her wavering self recovering.

“Trust me when I say I’m no threat,” Sooyoung informed her as she bent down slowly, letting the laptop sit on the cold smooth tiles. She looked meaningfully at Seohyun as she pushed the laptop forward. It slid and swerved to the right of where Sunny had Seohyun hostage.

Sunny swallowed as she pulled Seohyun to the right as well. Her shaking gun was still aimed at Seohyun as she leaned over to pick it up. In a flash, Seohyun pushed her gun arm up and Sunny fired straight into the ceiling.

Seohyun slammed Sunny’s hand against a desk and her grip on the gun loosened. Just as quickly, Sunny kicked her away, trying to get back to her laptop. Seohyun didn’t let her, throwing a fierce kick that contained much of Jessica’s force and accuracy. Sunny herself wasn’t weak though.

She ducked and swung her leg in a perfect rotation, aiming to trip the young girl. Seohyun jumped backwards, dodging it. Sunny stood back up and positioned herself to a fight. Seohyun too had her hands up in fists. Her glare and stance reminded Sunny so much of Jessica, she really wondered whether Seohyun could do the same damage.

Hyoyeon burst through the door and found Sooyoung on the side, leaning on the desk relaxed with the laptop beside her, sipping a cup of tea. In this little time, Sooyoung had casually picked the laptop up, went to the pantry, poured tea and had come back to watch the show. Hyoyeon’s stunned face then turned to the full out battle right in front of them. Now she knew why Sooyoung was so calm. Sunny was fighting Seohyun.

“Wow,” Hyoyeon whistled as she too crossed her arms to watch. Fists and kicks were flying everywhere, occasionally with one being more dominant than the other. Hyoyeon took Sooyoung’s cup of tea from her hands and took a sip herself, enjoying the show.

“She should’ve listened when I said I wasn’t a threat,” Sooyoung sighed. “I’m a sniper after all and I’m kind of farsighted. Couldn’t see her closely even if I tried without my grandma glasses. Our height difference doesn’t really help me either.”

“And now she has to fight Seohyun, the strongest fighter after Jessica,” Hyoyeon sighed along, shaking her head. “She’s the only one of us that Jessica bothered to teach how to fight…”

“But oddly enough, Seohyun is also the only one that Jessica doesn’t let go out with us on missions. Seohyun’s always stuck in the car with computers.”

Sooyoung thought deeply, stroking her nonexistent beard. Sooyoung tilted back slightly, dodging the stapler that rocketed by. Papers flew into the air but the two were too deep in thought to care.

“Maybe Jessica is just being protective over maknae,” Hyoyeon suggested, placing down the cup of tea, crossing her arms.

“True, she probably didn’t want Seohyun to get hurt. Our beloved maknae.”

Chairs tumbled, the clock dropped, and glass cups fell, shattering. Seohyun rolled over Yuri’s old desk, dodging Sunny’s roundhouse kick. Once landed, Seohyun thrust her foot forward, having the desk hit Sunny right in the stomach.

“But you know, in terms of one on one fighting, we’re both weaker than Seohyun,” Hyoyeon mused out loud. Sooyoung and Hyoyeon both hunched over, hand meeting chin, sporting identical expressions. “So how come Jessica lets us out?”

The two in combat rolled in front of them, trying to gain dominance over the other. Punches sailed. Seohyun, who was currently at the bottom, almost had her jaw dislocated if it wasn’t for her quick reflexes. Sunny’s ferocious fist hit the tile just beside her face. She rolled over, using her whole body to lock Sunny down.

“Hmmm…”

As if the same thought suddenly struck the both of them, Sooyoung and Hyoyeon turned their gazes to each other with a pitiful expression. They held onto each other’s hands when they realized the truth.

“SICA DOESN’T LOVE US! SHE DOESN’T CARE IF WE DIE!”

Ignoring the two who were busy being lunatics, Seohyun soon had Sunny in a headlock, leaving Sunny no room to escape.

“Sunny unnie!” Seohyun commanded while Sooyoung and Hyoyeon sighed again at her formality. “Why did you free Damian shi and why did you bomb the building?!”

Sunny struggled to move but couldn’t under Seohyun’s death grip.

“I had no choice!” she screamed back at her. “Simeon captured my entire family and he’s going to inject his drug into them as lab rats! He already injected it into my father. HE’S DEAD NOW!”

Seohyun’s grip slowly loosened in shock and Sunny dropped to her knees, tears flowing.

“I didn’t have a choice,” she cried. “He’s going to inject it into them one by one if I didn’t follow his instructions. The only way to extend the time was if I did everything he ordered. I only had three days to follow his instructions before he kills them. Every time I succeed, he’ll spare them but only temporarily. I had to do it or I will lose everything…”

Seohyun looked at Sooyoung and Hyoyeon for further instructions. She was unsure of what to do now. Seohyun then turned to Jessica and Tiffany who had just entered. Her gaze met Jessica’s and asked her silently what to do with Sunny.

Jessica nodded gravely and Seohyun, though slightly reluctant, pulled out handcuffs and locked them around Sunny’s wrists.

Jessica’s heart clenched as Hyoyeon sat Sunny down, questioning her. Decisions were so important and difficult to make when forced to face something as distressing as this. Would Jessica have done the same thing if it was the people she held dear taken hostage? Jessica swallowed painfully for deep inside she believed that she would. It was altogether selfish, sacrificing countless of innocent lives for those you loved but what normal person could think otherwise?

It hurt her to think of the unfairness the world lived on. To accomplish one thing, another had to be sacrificed. It was true that Sunny had done wrong but Jessica felt sympathy. In the end, it all went back to one person that destroyed everyone lives, putting them all in danger. Not only did he endanger all their lives, he tore apart their treasured friendship between them all.

Jessica’s fist clenched and it shook in anger. She would get to him one way or another. Jessica would be the one to end him, Simeon and whoever else that was involved, no matter what it took.

~~~~~~~~

“It was the last thing she told me to protect when I left her…” Yoona said quietly as she handed over both the phone and the card. Nicole pursed her lips as she slipped the card into her laptop. Typing in the password that Nicole seemed to know, it opened. Nicole’s eyes blurred from tears when she saw its contents.

It didn’t have much. Gyuri had saved nothing of their hard earned evidence during the limited time. Instead, she saved only two things. Nicole’s true identity and documents proving Yuri’s innocence. Gyuri had died protecting their past and their future.

Nicole wiped her tears quickly on her sleeve. She didn’t want to show any sign of weakness. This small team depended on her now. She would have to take Gyuri’s place. Nicole squinted when she noticed something else saved. A simple note with a word of some sort in it.

AKRT52OI2EDFGP

Gibberish, Nicole deemed but then, it might be something else.

“Yuri, give me the card you found in your father’s office.”

Yuri hastened to comply, pulling out the card she’d nearly got caught finding. While Nicole inserted it into her laptop, Yuri looked down at the picture she wrapped it in.

Those faces never failed to make her think and reminiscence. The highlight of her childhood all summarized in one picture. Yuri swallowed painfully as she tried to remember what her mother and brother looked like the last time she’d seen them.

Yuri let out a small chuckle when she remembered how at that time her mother used to say her brother and she looked like twins despite the age difference. She wondered how her brother had changed. Perhaps they didn’t look alike anymore but then again, Yuri would never know.

A hand reached for hers and Yuri looked up. Yoona smiled gently at her as she gave a light squeeze to her hand . Yuri folded the picture neatly and placed it into her pocket. She was thankful that they had at least once existed in her life and that Yoona was now here with her.

“Thank you,” Yuri whispered to her and Yoona’s smile widened. In silence and fingers entwined, they waited for Nicole to unlock the card.

~~~~~~~~

Not wasting a single second, Seohyun worked on Sunny’s laptop, immediately finding the exact files she had sent to Yoona and was now searching for more. Perhaps Sunny’s laptop had more to offer. After all, she did somewhat worked for Simeon.

Data burst onto the screen when Seohyun found something useful. Messages popped up one by one and it seemed to be from Simeon. Jessica hovered over Seohyun while Sooyoung and Hyoyeon was busy dealing with Sunny’s case in the background. The messages contained instructions as to how Sunny should do this and that. He did everything very carefully but Jessica was sure he did not anticipate them realizing Sunny and his connection with the addition of Seohyun, the crazy Keroro watcher and hacker.

“Seohyun, see if you can trace where these were sent,” Jessica ordered and Seohyun immediately started tapping. To Seohyun, this was no obstacle. Sliding over to another computer on her desk, she inputted everything she needed. Of course, it seemed trivial to attack sent messages to see where it was sent from. Any internet surfer that was slightly more informed would know how to screw up its location but Seohyun however had more to offer. As an authorized hacker and belonging in the group of top agents organized by the government, Seohyun could do this in a flash.

But Simeon was no idiot either. The location popped up and Jessica read it quickly. Jessica shook her head, that area was simply too big. She needed it smaller but there was something else she needed to deal with first.

“Seohyun,” she called, taking her phone out. She selected the message Yoona had sent and showed it to her.

“Does this mean anything to you?”

Seohyun was surprised that Jessica had it for it meant Yoona had given the password to her. Seohyun nodded slowly, knowing exactly what the password was for. She let her chair slide to her own computer and immediately started typing. In a flash, Seohyun’s Keroro wallpaper on her screen had changed into something else. It was as if it was someone else’s desktop.

“This is Yoona unnie’s laptop,” Seohyun explained, meaning that she had access to Yoona’s personal files. The cursor moved quickly showing its familiarity to Yoona’s settings. Several clicks later, Seohyun found the protected folder.

“When Yoona unnie first approached me, she told me to hack into Gyuri unnie’s computer. The files that we extracted are all in here, protected under a password,” Seohyun said. “Although it does not explain everything, after you read this, you’ll understand a lot more. It’s not as simple as it seems.”

Seohyun typed in YA53090 and the folder unlocked itself. Inside were files after files. Opening several of them, Seohyun let each file opened have its own screen.

Jessica let her eyes wander on the many monitors Seohyun had on. Jessica scanned through the screens until she landed on one screen in particular.

Jessica’s fingers tightened on the mouse as she scrolled through the screen. Jessica straightened up, arms crossed, taking in what she had just read.

“Kwon Yuri…that idiot.”

~~~~~~~~~

Nicole entered the mixture of letters and numbers that Gyuri had left for her into Mr. Kwon’s card as password. She tapped her last key and it finally opened. Her screen was first filled with unbelievable diagrams and formulas. Nicole and Yuri stared at them blankly while Yoona observed closer. Though Yoona could not be entirely sure, she believed it to be the formula as to how IoSeph had been recreated.

Trusting that forensic scientist Yoona would understand this, Nicole and Yuri looked at her expectantly.

“To be honest, ever since Joseph Jung’s case has been reviewed, Sunny and I have been meeting with him to get more information on IoSeph. How he created it, how it works on the human body and much more,” Yoona started to explain, scrolling down as she read through every detail. “This one here looks different from what Joseph showed us though. The base is similar but there are some major differences. For the sake of this conversation, I’m going to refer to Simeon’s version as IoSeph 2.”

Yoona took over Nicole’s seat, studying the files clearly. The one that was opened was not the most recent one. Searching further, Yoona found the most recent update. Yoona studied it with worry.

“You see here,” pointing at something that neither Yuri nor Nicole understood. Yoona compared the two open files and immediately noticed the difference.

“With the changes made from this date to the more recent one, Simeon is not following Joseph’s procedures. From what Joseph explained, IoSeph can enhance a human body greatly, examples being able to prevent illnesses, increase in strength and improve the rate of cell generation. By the look of this however, Simeon doesn’t seem to want an exact duplicate, more like an altered form to suit his needs. Alterations are extremely dangerous because even the simplest change can make it a virus that could kill millions in a flash. I think that this is what he is aiming for.”

The three were all unsettled at the news.

“But lately, the amount of deaths reported from IoSeph stayed the same as usual,” Yoona mumbled to herself. “That means Simeon hasn’t released his new version yet to the public…”

“But waiting until it’s perfected and all in one go…” Yuri breathed out and gulped. It took too much in them to accept this but they had to. They did not want to think what Simeon could use it for.

“Can there be an antidote?” Nicole finally said. “A way to stop this so called IoSeph 2?”

“Actually, we’ve been working on the ones that were already distributed. We’ve literally ditched everything else we had on our hands, contacting the most renowned scientists. We’ve been testing on the small bottle Tiffany retrieved ages ago. Sunny had kept what we worked on hidden in the lab but they are not finalized yet. As for Simeon’s new drug, that is something completely different. We have to make a new one entirely.”

“We need to get to Simeon before he sends out the virus but we also need to make an antidote in case it spreads,” Nicole stated anxiously, not sure how they could possibly succeed on both accounts. By the look of the files in the card, Simeon was only one step away from it. Yoona was thinking hard as well. If they want the antidote made, then there was only one way to it.

“I need to go back to my lab,” Yoona said firmly. “That’s the only place I have the resources as well as the technology.”

“But that’s also the place we are trying to avoid right now,” Nicole answered swiftly. Yoona shook her head.

“There’s no choice Nicole. We have to get back. With this data from Simeon in our hands, we might actually be able to make an antidote.”

Nicole fell silent for a moment. Though reluctant, she could not deny her words.

“But how are we going to get in the damn place? You know the moment Yuri or I step in, we’d be arrested and shot.”

“Well, we do have an insider…”

Nicole and Yoona turned at the all too silent Yuri since the beginning of this conversation.

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Nicole breathed out, not believing her.

“We can have Jessica take us in,” Yoona stated, agreeing. “She’ll understand now that I-”

“She’ll shoot us,” Nicole stated flatly, interrupting her. “We can’t afford that to happen. With us dead, the whole world might just be screwed.”

“She won’t. She let us go the other time,” Yoona insisted again.

“Can you guarantee a second?” Nicole rebutted. “Even if she let you go without the others knowing, Jessica can’t possibly do that again in front of the other officers.”

“I told you that-“ Yoona started impatiently but Yuri silenced her with a hand. Yuri reached down to the laptop and pushed the flash card out. The small gift that Gyuri had traded her life with. Yuri held it up to Nicole to see.

“Not with this she won’t. No one will. Of all the things Gyuri could’ve saved, she saved two things,” Yuri said firmly. “Gyuri left this to us for a reason. She knew what‘s going to come. Nicole, we can’t fight alone and we are not going to fight alone.”

Nicole wanted to say something but she could not find a good retort. She was right. Gyuri had saved this for them. Gyuri had saved them. Her hands opened and closed indecisively but finally nodded.

“Why do I think I’m just running in circles all this time?” Yuri cried out, exasperated as well as breaking the all too serious mood. Nicole closed the lid to her laptop, reluctantly agreeing to their plan. Yoona got up and Yuri too as they collected everything they needed, weapons and all.

“Still, it would be brutally ironic if I got shot by a police officer,” Yuri muttered as she placed her dual guns into the two holsters on either side. Yoona nervously pocketed her own and Nicole shared the same feelings.

“I don’t care. I’m flinging you in front of me no matter who shoots,” Nicole said resolutely to Yuri without a hint of humour in it. The trio knew where their next destination was. Police headquarters. That was where Jessica was.

Chapter Twenty Five

Hyoyeon tapped Jessica’s shoulder for her attention and spoke.

“Sunny has been doing more than we expected. The person she phoned on that day was Damian. She was responsible for his escape,” she said dejectedly. “And apparently, she, along with Joseph and Yoona, have been researching about IoSeph. Everything they talked about though, she relayed it to Simeon. Simeon probably has a very good idea as to how to it works now. Even worse, Sunny says he is developing another.”

Jessica pursed her lips at the unwelcomed news. It was something else to worry about. Elite fighters for one were definitely not wanted. The unknown drug was another threat. Jessica nodded, telling Hyoyeon she got the message. Jessica looked to see if Seohyun had made progress and she did, significantly, but not quite there yet.

The night was approaching as she watched the sun dip, slowly disappearing behind tall buildings. Jessica leaned against the window, looking down once again at the city she had always wanted to protect. Could she still?

Arms wrapped around her waist, distracting her from what she noticed, and Jessica smiled as Tiffany hugged her from behind.

“You know, we haven’t even gone out on a real date yet,” Tiffany said, relieving Jessica of her worries momentarily. Jessica turned to face her.

“Where do you want to go after this is over?” Jessica asked and Tiffany thought for a bit.

“I want to go to Japan!” she announced and Jessica raised a brow.

“That’s not a first date Tiffany. That’s like skipping dating, marriage and moving straight to the honeymoon.”

Tiffany grinned widely, her eyes disappearing once again. She buried herself in Jessica’s embrace and enjoyed the warmth.

“Well actually, I don’t care where as long as 1) I’m not in some battlefield 2) you’re not chasing after some criminal and 3) I’m with you,” she said softly and it was enough to make Jessica the happiest person in the world. Jessica kissed her, gently to start but ended up being more, even taking Tiffany by surprise.

When they parted, Tiffany was stunned, not necessarily in a bad way. Just ridiculously stunned.

“Are you drunk or something?” she had to ask. Jessica smiled.

“Don’t think so.”

Jessica continued to stare at her for she could never get tired of seeing this face that never failed to make her smile.

“Your hair is a lot longer now than when I first saw you,” Jessica said, noticing how her soft brown hair surpassed her shoulders.

“I love you and I won’t let anything hurt you, ever,” she whispered and Tiffany felt herself drowning in those deep brown eyes. “We’ll go to Japan the moment this is over.”

They were interrupted by Jessica’s phone though and Tiffany pulled it out of her jean pocket, lifting it to Jessica’s ears.

“Hello? Jessica Jung speaking.”

“Jessica, it’s Yoona. You have to help us. Would it be okay for you to find a way to get er…two ‘guests’ in without passing through security? Because we really don’t want to get shot at.”

Jessica looked out the window one more time and immediately pushed herself away from her position. Didn’t Jessica say that if she ever saw Yuri again, there would not be the option to look away? But that was before Yoona had sent her the message. No one could understand the relief that came out of it. Jessica didn’t have to look away, not this time, not anymore. She hastily exited the office, phone at her ear.

“Don’t move. I’m on my way. ”

~~~~~~~~

Yuri could not believe that she would once again walk through those glass doors. The moment she arrived, she felt jitters knowing that she was entering this building as a criminal, wanted by everyone that was in here with the exception of the WYE team. Still, they summed up to five people only and still she couldn’t guarantee they were wanted.

She ducked her head down at every single camera though Jessica reassured that they were not functioning during their ride up thanks to Seohyun. The guards had also conveniently left their posts for some unknown reason. That was also reassuring.

The second Yuri entered, she met the gazes of her fellow members. She felt naked under their glares.

“Hi guys…” she muttered. The members were now fully informed though after explanations given by Seohyun and even bits from Sunny. They knew exactly what Yuri had been doing all this time.

“Ya, player extraordinaire! Shove over so we can see the pretty girl behind you already,” Sooyoung reprimanded, first to throw something out and Yuri grinned sheepishly. This reunion was not expected but welcomed nonetheless.

“Just to be on the clear side,” Jessica said breaking her thoughts, arms crossed and with a scowl despite standing next to the epitome of happiness Tiffany. “You’re not forgiven. Don’t expect to get out of here as a free person either. You still need to deal with me.”

Yuri’s mouth dropped open slightly, taken aback. She wasn’t getting much pity from anyone else either for they were all on Jessica’s side. She gaped at Nicole, hinting that she should explain better but Nicole just shoved her roughly from the back.

“If you’re going to shoot, shoot her,” Nicole stated simply.

Thanks a lot.

“This is Nicole. Undercover, works for Gyuri and got me INTO this whole mess,” Yuri grumbled, stressing the ‘into’.

Nicole wasn’t really interested in the introduction. Instead, she looked at Yoona telling her to get the move on already.

“Jessica, we need to go back to the lab in order for us to find an antidote for Simeon’s new drug,” Yoona told her and Jessica looked totally unprepared for this request. Yoona then looked over at Sunny who was currently locked to a chair. “I also need the help of Sunny and Joseph to make this work.”

Jessica paused thinking. She had no problem getting around security to get Joseph out of his cell. It was the other she was worried about.

“Are you sure?” she said quietly. “She’s the one who bombed the building you were in…”

Yoona nodded firmly. Filling her in with what had been happening, she knew full well of Sunny’s intentions but years of friendship had not deteriorated.

“She’s the one who trained me and to me, she’s still a very close friend.”

Jessica nodded at her decision and unlocked the handcuffs that held Sunny still.

“Why-?” Sunny started but stopped when she found Yoona looking at her.

“Sunny, I really need your help. I know that you have a family held hostage but with this we can save not only your family but a lot of other people. Please help me Sunny,” Yoona said softly.

Sunny felt tears fall down as she hugged the person she had worked so long with and adored.

“I’m so sorry,” she cried as Yoona returned the hug. “I’m so sorry for everything I’ve done.”

Recovering, Sunny stood up straight and wiped her tears.

“Yes, I will help you. I need to make things right.”

~~~~~~~~~~

In the dead of the night, so many things were happening. Seohyun and Nicole both worked on the other information locked and hidden in the card while Yoona, Sunny and Joseph Jung, who Jessica retrieved from his special cell herself, were all in the lab.

Jessica and the rest of WYE team waited patiently for news. It finally came when both Seohyun rushed over.

“We found something!” Seohyun exclaimed and they all rushed to crowd around Nicole.

“Look at this. This is where they have been making the drug. This is a floor plan of the building itself and it is underground. The one floor that is visible from ground is like any other old looking and abandoned warehouse. You just need to find the entrance to all the stuff under.”

“But don’t think any less of it because of its appearance,” Nicole continued. “It should be under tight surveillance even from afar.”

Sliding on her chair to the map that hung on the wall, Nicole pinned the location.

“That’s where it is. You need to get there as soon as possible if you want to stop them because according to this, Simeon’s very close to what he wants. It’s only a matter of time before he releases everything.”

Jessica nodded and told the rest to follow.

“Prepare yourself with everything you need. Don’t miss out anything.”

While the others all prepared themselves, Jessica stayed behind to talk to Nicole privately. Nicole was confused as to why Jessica would speak to her rather than Seohyun.

“I need a complete lockdown of this building,” she stated firmly and Nicole, stunned at her request, simply stared at her. Pulling away from Jessica’s hard gaze, Nicole rolled her chair to the window and looked down. In the dark and at this height, she saw nothing but then again, she shouldn’t be able to. Jessica, however, did.

Jessica walked over beside her, her arms crossed, looking at the beautiful night sky that shadowed everything else. All those silent movements could not escape her. She had noticed the first time she looked out those windows only to be interrupted by Tiffany. The three that just came did not realize that the greatest danger was not getting caught by the police but killed by those silently waiting outside for orders. Simeon was determined to eliminate all that could possibly prevent him from his final moment.

“Nicole, this isn’t an order but a personal request,” Jessica said quietly while Nicole listened. “I know that you will be the only one to understand. The others don’t understand what we do. They don’t know what they are going against but I do. I’m one of them.”

Nicole did not respond but she did fully understand Jessica’s words. Working as an undercover meant many things. She saw things that she wished were not true. Experiments of all sorts. Humans turning into something they should never.

“I’ve changed so much to the point that I’m scared. IoSeph has taken a big part of me now. Ever since I survived my motorcycle accident, I knew something was changing.”

Jessica swallowed painfully, scared to reveal what she discovered.

“I recover…really quickly. I survived something that should’ve killed me or at least disabled me for life. I healed in two weeks,” Jessica murmured, slowly taking out the hand she had cut just recently. The messily bandaged fingers made her think of Tiffany.

“This cut…I watched it bleed but I also felt it starting to close almost immediately after. It’s like it never happened.”

Nicole watched Jessica as she slowly unraveled the bandages to reveal her injured fingers. The cut had already healed, nothing that showed it was damaged in the first place except the blood that the bandage had absorbed.

“I’m not human anymore…” she said in less than a whisper. Jessica took a deep breath, turning to see the rest of her team preparing for their mission. “Anything that could hurt me is nothing anymore. This healing from IoSeph is turning me abnormal. I believe it can get worst as time goes by.”

“The thing is…I’m not the only one,” Jessica expressed, her fears returning. “All those hiding out there might have already reached this state as well. I’m not invincible and they are not too. We feel pain but it’s short lived. We can die if the method is quick enough but I can’t let anyone else get injured or die before they do. Right now, I need to use IoSeph to my advantage.”

Jessica’s gaze turned to each and every one of her members. Those that had penetrated her cold exterior and taken such an important part inside her, greater than anything IoSeph can offer.

“There’s too much I care for to let this happen…”

Jessica turned to Nicole one last time, her hands resting on both sides of the chair’s armrest. Jessica’s head bowed down, unable to look into anyone’s eyes that could possibly cause her to waver.

“I beg you to lock down this building in a way that none could penetrate, inside and out. Please protect them.”

With that said, Jessica pushed herself away and headed out the door, her trench coat trailing behind her. She threw the now useless bandage on the desk on the way out, thinking that this reminder of Tiffany needed to be left behind. It would distract her. The glass doors slid open for its leader to pass and she entered the elevators down.

~~~~~~~~~~

Jessica walked out to the underground parking lot, pulling out her gloves as she did. Her footsteps echoed eerily in the empty lot and it made her feel reassured. There was only her.

As she turned to corner to where her motorcycle was parked, Jessica saw person leaning on her motorcycle, arms crossed as if waiting for her.

“Kwon Yuri…” Jessica exhaled, praying what she was seeing was not true. This had to be a joke and one hell of one too. “What the hell are you doing here?”

Yuri let out her signature smirk as she pushed herself off the bike. Standing up straight, Jessica could see exactly what Yuri had prepared. The pair of guns she never parted with on either side, leather jacket with sleeves that reached to her elbows only, biker gloves to finish the look and a backpack pressed closely to her back.

“I’m ready when you are,” Yuri told her cheerfully. Jessica wanted to shoot her down right now.

“What do you think you’re doing?!” she demanded, stomping over till she reached her. Yuri shrugged nonchalantly, her smirk had yet to fade under Jessica’s deadly glare.

“You’re an idiot if you think I didn’t notice your private conversation with Nicole and the ‘I’m going to play hero all by myself’ look,” Yuri scoffed at Jessica’s attempt to hide. “Bad news for you, I know you too well. The good news is though, I’m willing to follow in whatever you’re planning so don’t sweat it.”

“Play hero?” Jessica repeated, hands wanting to strangle her. “Kwon Yuri, this isn’t a game to play. You’re crazy if you think that I’ll let you! This isn’t a trip Yuri. These aren’t normal people, they’re friggin monsters!”

Jessica pulled out a small blade hidden in her jacket and slashed her palm. Yuri stared at her actions, too shock to respond.

“Look at this! Look!” Jessica ordered, thrusting her hand forward for her to see. The cut was deep and bled profusely. In a matter of seconds though, it slowed down as if an invisible hand pinched the cut together. What remained was only a thin line of red.

“This is what will happen if I can’t stop them in time! It’s not what we’ve seen before. I can’t risk throwing out my members to meet death!”

Yuri stared at her clean palm for a few more seconds then returned her gaze to Jessica. There was no hint of a smile.

“I’m not crazy Jessica. I know that they’ve been experimenting but I’m not afraid,” she answered calmly, very different from her usual self. “You’re not risking my life if that’s what you’re worried about. I’m sending out my own to correct something. Stupid as it sounds, I feel responsible.”

Yuri let out a laugh as she thought of her father. No matter what happened, they were still connected by blood.

“I want to stop them Jessica. I want to be the one to arrest my father to tell him what he did was wrong, that everything he did was wrong from the very beginning but I don’t want him dead,” Yuri stated decisively. “More importantly though, I don’t want you dead.”

Jessica was speechless as Yuri looked right at her.

“Yea, I might not match your skills but for a mortal, I’m pretty damn good,” Yuri joked as she flung her bag to the front. Unzipping the bag, she revealed numerous weapons that Yuri had packed up in preparation.

“Bless daddy Kwon to be so damn rich and have an obsession of scary toys,” she gushed, faking excitement. “Plus, we want to kick ass in style don’t you think? Whether it be the fight or my funeral, it’s party all the way!”

Yuri punched the air as if truly preparing to go to a party. How could she joke about something like this? Nothing could faze her. Jessica gaped at her, thinking of whatever was left to dissuade her of going.

“What about Yoona?”

So something could deter her. Yuri’s smile faltered but found a comeback almost immediately.

“Well what about you? Aren’t you doing exactly what I did, the thing you hate most about me? Leaving, disappearing without a word.”

Jessica looked down to the ground as she thought of the sole reason for her actions.

“You’re right. I do hate myself because I have to be the one to hurt her most. Maybe I’m disappointing her now but as long as I know that one of the people I’m protecting is her, I can’t regret this decision,” Jessica said quietly. “It’s not really a choice when protecting someone you love. All you see is her. There’s just nothing else.”

Yuri smiled understandingly.

“Then believe me when I say I feel the same thing for Yoona. It’s my decision Jessica and I’m going to make the best out of it.”

Yuri tapped her shoulder and pointed to the door Jessica entered in.

“Oh look, Nicole had already carried out your orders,” Yuri announced happily, breaking the silence as she saw the flickering lights on the card reader turn off and a metal shield slid down from above. “Guess I can’t go back up anymore even if I wanted to. And we’d better hurry if we don’t want to get stuck here ourselves.”

Jessica licked her lips, still slightly concerned about letting Yuri come along. Yuri just laughed, pushing Jessica to the front seat of the bike.

“Oh stop being so ‘noble’ and hurry up,” Yuri chirped as she flung her own leg over the bike and sat behind Jessica. “I don’t need you to cover my back but I’m going to cover yours . That’s what family does.”

Yuri forced Jessica’s helmet onto her head and though hidden, Jessica smiled. Stupid Kwon Yuri for saying those things. Jessica pulled on her own gloves as she thought of the word family. Yes, at one point she didn’t know what it meant. Now she did.

“Oh my god, start the damn thing already before I shoot you Sica!”

Yea…only family could say that.

Chapter Twenty Six

Yoona shook her head in frustration as they struggled to make an antidote. Joseph, a brilliant scientist himself, could not figure out how to stop the new one. Yoona threw her goggles aside as she slammed her hand on the mouse, scrolling quickly to understand the over complicated diagrams that Simeon had made. She could understand the logic of it all she supposed but why haven’t they made anything yet?

“What are we missing?!” Yoona burst out in frustration. There just seemed to be nothing to counter Simeon’s creation. A mystery that couldn’t be solved but a mystery that could cost lives. Joseph shook his head, feeling useless that he couldn’t remember. Simeon’s version started out as his own creation. There had to be some link to it that Joseph could use. IoSeph was the drug he was sentenced a lifetime of jail for. How could he not remember?

Joseph closed his eyes, thinking desperately to the beginning where it all started. Jessica’s mother had died very soon after Jessica’s birth. Joseph didn’t know how it had happened and neither did the doctors. It was something new that no one had experienced yet. It destroyed him once, taking his wife from him. It destroyed him the second time to see traces of it in Jessica’s body. It had passed down to his daughter.

At a young age, Jessica was slighter weaker than others in terms of metabolism and energy but it had not been too serious. Joseph had supposed that not all children could be amazing athletes but as she grew older, it became more obvious. Joseph had to take her to the doctors but none could tell him what the reason for her fragile state was.

So in the end, Joseph ditched all his work to examine her himself. It was then when he found out Jessica had what his wife had and if not treated, she would die. How he hated himself for not working fast enough for Jessica had a near death experience that still brought him nightmares. Ever since, Joseph had locked himself in his lab, testing and manipulating, even going to the lengths to buy illegal products.

Now that he thought of it, he had traded the most important thing in his life for this one drug. Joseph’s research had led to negligence towards his daughter. He had even shouted at her ruthlessly for entering his lab but this failure to be a good father had forced him to create a drug that saved her life. Could he really regret it?

Yoona and Sunny turned in surprise when they heard Joseph’s fist bang on the desk. It finally hit him. IoSeph was never planned to be a drug meant to kill. It was not a virus to begin with. It was a drug to save his daughter’s life. It was the counter to the virus that lived in Jessica’s body. Improved metabolism, quickened cell regeneration, everything that almost made Jessica invincible. With slight modifications, it could act again as an counter for another.

“Yoona,” Joseph said hoarsely. “We’ve got it all wrong. We don’t need to make another antidote for Simeon’s drug. We only need the original IoSeph! IoSeph is the antidote!”

Yoona gaped and saw Sunny do the same. The original IoSeph?

“How do we know for sure that IoSeph is strong enough to counter it? Simeon’s version has been manipulated enough and if IoSeph is not capable, we’d be creating another illegal drug!” Sunny started on the dangerous factors of this idea. “What’s worse is that the intensity of these two drugs can literally destroy the beholder! The mixture of the two can go terribly wrong!”

Joseph only shook his head.

“There’s no choice. It’s a risk. We cannot guarantee anything but it’s the only thing that might stand a chance. If we don’t make it, we’ll regret our entire lives for not trying.”

“But how do we make it?” Yoona asked immediately. Joseph stared at her intently.

“We need Jessica.”

~~~~~~~~~~

The team searched for their leader on their floor when suddenly they heard loud clunks of something and their glass door slammed shut. In the midst of all this, Nicole sat calmly.

“What the hell?” Sooyoung swore as she ran to the doors, pushing and slamming but it refused to open. She ran to pick up a chair and flung it at the glass which stubbornly did not break.

“What is going on?!” she roared making her way back when she noticed Nicole’s unfazed expression.

“What the hell did you do?!” Sooyoung threw at her, pulling her up roughly by the collar. Nicole pushed her away, smoothing out the clothes she ruffled.

“Following orders,” she muttered. Tiffany’s eyes widened when she realized what just happened.

“Jessica left didn’t she?” she asked quietly and received no response from Nicole. The silence itself was an answer. Sooyoung shook her head furiously.

“Seohyun! Open the door now! Jessica has blown her mind if she thinks we’re going to let her do this.”

Seohyun rushed over to her desk and realized that her entire computer system taken over by Nicole’s single laptop.

“Unnie…” she whimpered, pointing to her black screen. Nicole stood up and walked away from them only to be blocked by Hyoyeon.

“You have to unlock everything. Now.”

“It was a promise. I wouldn’t have done it if I didn’t agree with her. You would all just die. The only one capable of even making it to Simeon’s lair is Jessica,” she said calmly, though inside she wondered if she had made the right decision.

~~~~~~~~~~

As if right on cue, the moment they zoomed out of the parking lot, the gates slammed shut, transforming into a thick metal barrier. The motorcycle climbed up the hill and was level to those sneaking around when it stopped. Jessica’s boot met ground.

“Plan?” Yuri asked.

“Same as always,” Jessica muttered back, hand twisting the grip which teased the engines as well as those lurking around. They had to by now notice the two. Jessica adjusted the mirrors and played for a few more seconds. Tolerance was a virtue tonight.

“Aww, Tiffany dirtied my mirror,” Jessica cooed unnaturally and in a flash, Yuri turned 180 degrees, shooting. Jessica only needed to see the reflection of the man fall to confirm his death as Jessica launched the bike forward.

Bullets rang, bursting at either direction as Yuri fired from both guns. Simeon’s men were no longer hiding and the uncountable revealed their hiding spots. Some had guns while some didn’t. Those that didn’t did not require a gun. They were a weapon themselves.

“Front!” Jessica ordered and Yuri swerved back, resting her arm on Jessica’s shoulder to strengthen her accuracy. Three bullets shot out, hitting each of them once yet only one fell. Jessica forced a sharp turn, dodging the human logs who grunted in pain but one bullet wasn’t enough to have them fall . She cursed when she realized Simeon had sent more IoSeph slaves than she thought.

Braking with wheels screaming from the haste, her foot planted on the ground as the bike did a full turn back. It didn’t matter who had IoSeph and who didn’t. Either way, they were both aiming for their lives.

“Shoot them where it hurts. More than once if needed,” was all she could throw out as she shot forward again.

“Oh yea, where it hurts. Like I don’t know that,” Yuri muttered sarcastically as she aimed for those farther away with weapons. Jessica directed her bike at an unnaturally muscular man, with soon to pop veins Yuri must add, thoroughly disgusted. Yuri pointed lower and shot just as they flew pass. They heard a beastly howl and saw him fall to the ground, clutching his family jewel.

“That hurt enough?” Yuri questioned, faking innocence. As if she didn’t know. Grimacing, Jessica dodged the human barriers, her body close to the motorcycle. There was no sign of stopping as she aimed straight for another. With one smooth motion, she swerved to his right, having Yuri hit him in the face with the butt of her gun. Distracted by his broken nose that now bled, he failed to dodge the finishing shot Yuri aimed at him from behind.

The duo circled the building, shooting what they saw and luring out those that they didn’t. They didn’t want any of them to remain near the premise. Jessica forced her distance to enlarge and without them realizing it, the stupid bunch chased after them to the empty parking lot. The battlefield was set, having enough free space for Jessica to use it to her advantage. To say they were winning however would be an exaggeration.

Those randomly lunging pathetic idiots would be shot down quickly but the stronger proved to be more difficult. Headshots. It was the only thing quick enough.

It was as if a beast charged at them, one that matched the speed of a motorcycle. He pounced so quickly and accurately that he tackled Yuri right off the bike.

“Yuri!” Jessica shouted, wanting to turn back but couldn’t as a bullet nearly hit her.

Yuri crashed to the floor, rolling with the monster from the unwelcomed attack. The weight of the attacker was no joke. Built like a tank, he nearly suffocated Yuri simply by his body mass. Yuri could only think of one word to describe the bulky man who growled at her, saliva dribbling out of his bared teeth. Animal.

Yuri’s back slammed against the ground and Yuri felt as if something was being choked out of her. The snarling man closed his fingers on her neck and Yuri could hardly breathe. Her neck wanted to break into pieces. Her gun was meters away, where she had been knocked off.

Jessica wanted to curse all that was alive here. Not caring of all that awaited her to return, Jessica forced the bike back and did a turn that had her almost parallel to the ground. A loud bang welcomed her presence but ignoring it, her hand snatched Yuri’s fallen gun and slid it across the rough pavement just as she finished her rotation.

Yuri’s hand reached painfully for the gun that was now less than an inch away. Her fingers clawed the ground, stretching as far as they could. The tip of her fingers pulled the gun closer until her hand finally clasped onto the grip.

“F…you,” she choked out and the muzzle of her gun met his head. Yuri turned her face away, shutting her eyes as blood decorated her face. With all her strength, she pushed the dead body off of her and heard the screech of Jessica’s bike coming back for her. Yuri took Jessica’s hand and flung herself back on, panting as she wiped her face clean hastily. Now this was war.

What was hurting their chances most were those that were perfectly in control of themselves and were smart enough to remain hiding that they just couldn’t get to. They shot mercilessly.

“Frap!” Jessica shouted as a bullet grazed her arm and would have hit Yuri in the shoulder too if Jessica hadn’t elbowed her out of the way.

“What the hell is that word?!” Yuri shouted as she searched blindly for all the gunners that were responsible for all the holes in their clothes. The snipers hid so damn well, Yuri just couldn’t find them, especially with the headlight of Jessica’s bike as the only source of light apart from those faint orange streetlamps.

“A mixture of the middle finger and crap,” Jessica gritted as she spun the bike around, having its butt smash into the legs of the enemy. Yuri quickly shot plenty down, finishing the beast. Yuri felt anxious.

“My gun is running out of bullets,” she informed hurriedly, slamming in her last cartridge she had on hand. “I only have one left unless I can go into my bag and even then I can't get them. If I keep shooting blindly at the snipers, it’ll be all gone regardless. It’s too dark and I can’t see any of them while they can see us. They are tracking us by the lights on your bike."

Jessica spun and drove, thinking hard. The faint and sparse orange lights from the streetlamps reflected off her bike as they repeated the same course for the gazillionth time. Jessica’s grip tightened on the handles as she thought.

“Yuri, take my gun and shoot all the streetlights!”

Yuri hesitated at her ridiculous request. Didn’t she just complain about the lack of light? But trust for Jessica had ended her suspicions quickly. Snatching the gun from Jessica’s side, she aimed at all the lights that were near the area. In seconds, it was completely dark except for the bike’s lights. No difference. They could still locate them.

“Lean close to me. Lessen the targeting space!” Jessica ordered and Yuri followed.

Yuri clung onto Jessica closely, her gun in her hand. The bike snaked left and right, dodging the bullets that Yuri couldn’t see. Jessica’s eyes did not need light. To her, night was just as clear as day. Thumb on toggle switch, all lights on her bike were turned off, leaving the battlefield in complete darkness. Yuri couldn’t see anything but neither could the enemy. Only Jessica could.

“Shoot when I give you the sign,” Jessica hissed and Yuri nodded. She didn’t need her to tell her what the sign was. Yuri was certain she would know the moment she saw it. Jessica caught a glimpse of movement and realized that the gunners had surrounded them and immediately she changed directions. The shooters could only trust their hearing as their eyes struggled to adjust to sudden yet complete darkness. The sound of the bike roared left and then right, fading then strengthening. What the hell was going on?

Without warning, a flicker of short lived light broke through the darkness but shut right after. In that split second, a gun roared and shot at the chest of one of the gunners. The tactic worked as Jessica continued to turn only her headlights on and off while Yuri, reacting instantly to where the light had aimed at, shot.

Trust Jessica to think of this.

There were no more wasted bullets as Yuri’s targets were perfectly directed to by Jessica while the others were simply shooting blindly. Gunners were all down after a few well aimed rounds. They barely had the time to run.

Jessica skidded to a stop, finally able to catch a breath and feel the pain of the bullet lodged into the side of her body from Jessica’s turn to get Yuri’s gun. Jessica scanned the parking lot that were filled with dead bodies. Taeyeon would kill her for leaving her this mess…

“Jessica, you’re bleeding,” Yuri panicked, her hand pressed against Jessica’s wound to stop the flow of blood.

“Yuri, close your eyes and don’t look.”

Hesitant, Yuri abided, hand covering her eyes. Jessica threw her jacket onto the ground, exposing the damp spot on her shirt. Jessica shut her own as she dug in to her body to get the bullet out. She cringed at the sharp pain but she had pulled it out nonetheless. Jessica threw the bloody bullet to the ground, hand pressing her wound close. Jessica started breathing again when she felt that there was no longer a huge gap at her side, rather a red patch of fresh skin starting to recover.

“That was gross,” Yuri had to comment through the gap of her fingers.

“Told you not to look,” Jessica seethed through gritted teeth.

“I like to watch horror and gore once in a while. So that’s what a long time with IoSeph inside you can do huh?”

Jessica covered her exposed skin with her bloodied shirt again, hands returning to the handles.

“Yea,” Jessica replied, feeling no pride in it. Jessica turned around to examine Yuri.

“You okay?”

“Splendid. With human shield Jessica in front, just great,” Yuri replied casually. Yuri let her bag drop, exchanging for a new pair of guns and lifted her arm to look at the remains of her jacket.

“Oh look, it looks like cheese,” Yuri laughed, noticing all the holes it had and then coughed from the strain. Yuri threw her jacket down beside Jessica’s, leaving it behind and gave Jessica a thumbs up. Jessica pursed her lips. Yuri was not uninjured, grazes from bullets here and there. Her neck was purple where the hand of the beast was. It was not severe enough to tear her down though. It’d take a lot more than that to put an end to this idiot.

Jessica turned on the lights again, preparing for the second trip.

“Ready?”

“Always.”

Chapter Twenty Seven

Feeling like the enemy all over again, Nicole was victimized by the rest of the team but no, she would not open anything for them. She was only spared for the few minutes the team had looked down their window and saw Jessica’s motorcycle zoom out from the lot and out on the road. She had left.

Tiffany was silent throughout all the shouts and threats. What was she thinking? Didn’t they promise each other to never let the other be alone? Wasn’t Jessica the one who always cared about being right or wrong? Then how could she decide to just leave like that? Tiffany shook her head. Jessica was wrong for leaving her here. She had no right to breach the promise they made together.

The others froze when all of a sudden Tiffany pushed her chair back forcefully and headed to the sliding doors. Her chair slammed loudly against the desk and before they could react, Tiffany had pulled out a gun and was fiercely shooting at the glass.

The glass dented at her repetitive shots at the same spot but didn’t break. Tiffany wasn’t stopping. Once out of ammo, she replaced them with new ones.

“Tiffany unnie, the glass is bulletproof,” Seohyun reported to her and had never seen Tiffany lose control like this.

“Nothing in this friggin world is invincible!” Tiffany seethed as she pulled the trigger again and again.”Not even Jessica!”

The others were awestruck. Tiffany had just lost her mind. “I don’t give a damn on how long it takes. I’m not sitting here waiting. I’m going after her!”

The glass took in every one of those bullets and the spider web of cracks enlarged but nowhere near to breaking. Hot tears blurred her vision and her aim wavered as Tiffany started to cry.

“Tiffany!”

The shouting voice belonged to Yoona, who had came up by the stairs and was shocked to see what was happening.

“What is happening?!” she shouted, slamming her palm against the glass. Her eyes widened as Yoona saw Tiffany’s tears and then the grave expression on Nicole’s face.

“Don’t tell me…”

“Jessica went alone!” Tiffany screamed at her. The bullets ran out and Tiffany could do nothing but smash her own fists against it. Yoona was terrified to see the glass tainted red. Sooyoung rushed to pull her away.

“Nicole you don’t understand!” Yoona shouted from behind the glass. “I need something of Jessica’s! A sample of her blood or something if we want to remake IoSeph the way it was! It’s the only antidote for what Simeon is planning to set on the world. The virus that could kill millions!”

Shocked silence followed her words. Nicole felt everything breaking apart, herself falling deeper and deeper. How could this have happened? Everything was going wrong.

“But Jessica’s gone…and Yuri…” Nicole stuttered as she looked out the window. And Nicole had been the one to let her walk away. Regret was not the word fit to describe her right now. It went beyond that. “There’s nothing we can do about it…”

Nicole felt as if she had dropped down into a bottomless pit. It was the unexpected twists that turned everything upside down. There was no end to disaster, only one surpassing another.

“You got to open the door!” Hyoyeon shouted at her as Nicole trembled. She couldn’t. The lock she had set could not be broken by any one, not even herself. For the next twenty four hours, they would have to remain.

“I…I can’t.”

Yoona dropped to her knees, her head leaning on the door. Her hopes shattered into pieces unlike the barrier that stood between her and the team. Jessica was gone. Yuri was gone. Impossible was nothing and nothing was exactly what they had.

The youngest sat motionless staring at the hardware that crowded her desk. Wheels spinning, she stood up and headed straight to Nicole.

“Give me your laptop.”

~~~~~~~~

Morning was breaking out and light was soon coming to view. Not even close enough to see the front of the warehouse, they were shot at mercilessly. Jessica took her hand off the handle and took aim. One guard collapsed and before the other could raise the alarm, Yuri took him out. Yuri fired, taking out the obstacles that stood ahead.

But it seemed like he didn’t have to. The alarm was raised regardless as Jessica’s motorcycle passed the dead bodies and the entrance was already starting to close. Yuri fired rapidly at the remaining guards as they drew closer and closer but the metal gate was sliding down and if they didn’t do anything now, they would never get in.

“Yuri, get off!”

“What the hell are you-?!” Yuri yelled back before receiving a hard shove. The push knocked her over, losing balance and rolled roughly onto the ground, shaken by the momentum but not enough to miss what Jessica decided to do next.

Jessica collected speed and without a second thought, Jessica threw all her weight towards the solid ground, having her body meet it first. Her skin burned from contact and she finally let go, launching the bike forward. The motorbike spun chaotically, its exterior scrapping the gravel as it rocketed ahead in mad circles. A sickening crunch followed and then silence.

Flat on the ground, Yuri couldn’t believe her eyes. Broken parts littered the path the bike had just travelled. Smoke, created by the friction of its burning wheels, consumed the scene. In the haze, she saw a silhouette, slowly lifting herself off from the gravel. Yuri gawked as she saw her left sleeve torn to pieces but her skin remained unscathed .

Staggering slightly, Jessica finally stood up straight, watching the scene in front of her. The bike was lodged in between the gate and ground. Just enough to get through. Jessica ripped off the remains of her sleeve, throwing it to the ground as trash. One arm exposed, Jessica looked back at Yuri and jerked her head to the front, telling her to get a move on.

Yuri scrambled to her feet, picking up her fallen gun and ran to meet her partner.

“That’s your best friend you’d literally pushed to death,” Yuri muttered, catching up.

“Your choice. Roll off first or join me scraping the floor,” Jessica replied while Yuri cringed. It sounded even worse than seeing it live.

“Plan?” Yuri asked for the second time.

“Find Simeon, find your father, arrest the damn lot. Shoot at will.”

“Joy.”

Jessica listened for any movement inside, waiting to attack them if they were to enter. Her keen senses picked up slight shuffles.

“Let’s go,” Yuri said but Jessica held her arm.

“Wait,” Jessica warned but Yuri already rolled in, gun at hand. Yuri’s gun was raised, level to her eyes. No one.

“Told you there was nothing…” Yuri muttered as Jessica entered after her. Hearing nothing threatening, Jessica reluctantly agreed. Yuri stared wide eyed as she started to remember that she had been here before. It was the place she and her father first met after she quit. Of course, she had no idea where it was for Jaejoong had blindfolded her for the duration of the ride.

It didn’t matter now since she had finally arrived. Yuri at least knew where the hidden door was. Motioning Jessica to follow, the two slipped quietly as the haze cleared to the trapdoor hidden by tall towers of crates. Yuri licked her lips nervously as she studied the stupid mechanic that required a fingerprint scan. Yuri swiped out her specialized cell phone and quickly scrolled through. Finding what she wanted, she placed the screen of her phone to the scanner. The lights winked green and allowed entrance.

Jessica blinked at the unexpected genius that was buried deep, and she meant buried deep, in Yuri.

“You have your father’s fingerprint on that thing?” Jessica said quietly. Yuri nodded.

“How do you think I got all the stuff in my bag? I’ve been secretly entering his storeroom and been taking out weapons that I wanted.”

Jessica had to be amazed as the lid slid open to reveal a staircase down.

“After you,” Yuri insisted with a grin. Jessica was prepared to go in when out of nowhere a voice rang.

“You, don’t move!”

Jessica and Yuri raised a brow at the incomer. The guy looked like he was ready to pee in his pants. No wonder they didn’t notice him. They only looked for those that posed a threat.

“Hey I remember you,” Yuri said in surprise, “You’re the guy that organizes the crates and is the one my dad nearly shot the other time!”

The cheerfulness in her voice didn’t seem right. Jessica leaned closer as Yuri whispered through unmoving lips.

“He’s not a big guy. Just one that does the cleaning…”

“You’re not supposed to be here. The alarm was raised. Drop your weapons,” the guy threatened though failing miserably. The guy was just too terrified.

Yuri shrugged and dropped her weapon to the floor. Confused, Jessica followed suit. The man started to inch closer to pick up those guns.

“You idiot!” Yuri suddenly burst out, pointing at Jessica accusingly. “I told you not to do this the kind way but noooo, you didn’t want to make a scene. If we went with my plan going in with a bang, this wouldn’t have happened. Now we got this guy on our hands!”

“Oh yea, let’s just make it a parade then. I mean, everyone would just take your exploding grenades for fireworks wouldn’t they?” Jessica replied sarcastically, having no idea where this was going and how grenades even related but the guy didn’t know.

“At least those ‘fireworks’ won’t be for us! And it’s not like you had a better idea!” Yuri retorted.

“I told you to wait because unless you’ve forgotten, we’re an army of two, versus an army of a bazillion. Would that have made you feel better, getting creamed before we even made it pass the front entrance? That way, this guy can help bury us outside instead!”

The man blinked blankly at the boisterous pair that continued to yell at each other, scoffing and rolling their eyes all at once. He was half prepared to hear a ‘oh-no-you-didn’t’ from the look of how comfortable they were starting to get. Did they think this was their home or something? Had they no idea that they were at gunpoint ,though admittedly, a shaking one?

“Are you asking to be pummeled?!” Yuri shouted at her with a fist and Jessica let out a derisive laugh.

“When have you ever been able to land a punch on me?” she scoffed, raising her fist as well.

“Ever since NOW!”

And both fists collided straight to his face before he realized what hit him.

“I deserve an Oscar,” Yuri sighed as she bent down to pick up the guns they had dropped. “Poor guy, his nose is bleeding and he’s unconscious.”

“Bully for him,” Jessica grumbled, retrieving her gun. “He tried to shoot us.”

“Key word: Tried. He’s a nice guy despite the fact he works here.”

“Yea whatever. He probably didn’t shoot because he was too appalled by your acting,” Jessica muttered and was about to enter when Yuri grabbed her arm.

“You know what? Changed my mind,” Yuri declared merrily and then smirked the way she always did before a fight. “I’ll go in first and show you that you can fight effectively, look hot, and keep a smile at the same time, something Jessica my friend, you seriously need help on.”

Her gun aimed downwards as she took careful steps down, Jessica following her. Yuri noticed four guards already standing nearby the end of the staircase. One spotted her and Yuri’s hand pounced onto the railing, jumping over and sent an undesirable kick straight at his face. The guard howled in pain but it lasted short when Yuri’s hand wrapped around his jaw and finished with the sound of cracking bones.

The other three charged at her and Yuri dodged elegantly, her back meeting ground as an enemy aimed a spinning kick and flipped herself back up, quickly tripping him to meet her level. After a bullet at the chest, she jumped over his body to send a kick to another, sending him to the wall. Yuri wrapped her arm around the fourth’s arm, twisting until his hand met his back, kicking his shin so he fell on his knees. Smashing the butt of her gun at his head, she finished the last of the four.

Yuri swished her hair and turned to find Jessica.

“This is how you do it,” Yuri stated triumphantly and found Jessica standing at the open of the next hallway, looking bored as if waiting. Yuri hopped over the unconscious bodies to find that in front of Jessica were an even bigger line up of bodies. Darn it, Jessica beat her again.

“And this is how you be efficient, frown, and couldn’t care less about looking hot or not,” Jessica said evenly without a hint of humour in her voice. Yuri shrugged but seconds later, more had decided to join them. Not surprised. Their entrance wasn’t exactly subtle.

The enemies seemed a bit more dangerous as well. Their eyes were unfocused but as if they could sense the two’s presence, their voices emitted a low rumble, craving for what Yuri thought was dinner. Sadly, Yuri would gladly offer dinner just for them to back off. It was shame they wanted them dead instead.

The duo’s stance changed, right foot behind the other, prepared to fight. Yuri offered her open hand to Jessica.

“Game. Whoever kicks less ass is the first to beg for forgiveness from Yoona and Tiffany.”

“Deal.”

Jessica completed the low five and launched herself forward. She charged at the first guard but instead of smashing him right in the face, Jessica kicked off the wall, flipping over him to nail the one behind. The first was then met by the fist of Yuri and the battle had officially begun.

Chapter Twenty Eight

There has to be a way.

Their minds were not clear and all they could think of was ‘what ifs’ yet one young officer was moving at unimaginable speeds. She did not blink as she tried to find a way that her senior could not.

Seohyun could care less as to what Nicole said about it being impossible for the building’s entire system was in lockdown. Nothing that operated based on its systems would work and she was right. No matter how hard Seohyun had tried to reboot the system, it was proven useless. Elevators, doors that required keycards, anything that ran electronically, which basically was most of the building, they responded to no one. There was also no way to stop the lockdown midway. It had to go to the end.

Yet Seohyun continued. The laptop’s screen suddenly flashed, showing the time remaining of the twenty four hour lock down.

20:26:36

And slowly decreasing. Perfectly timed changes by the second. From six to five, five to four and so on. Seohyun studied it carefully, her finger tapping to each second. The tapping continued rhythmically then faster and faster until Seohyun knew what to do.

The black screen returned to find digital language shooting up as Seohyun typed away. Nicole rose from her seat to look at her screen.

“What are you...” Nicole began to ask but then realized exactly what she was up to. Her mouth slowly parted in astonishment. It was so damn simple. How could she not have thought of this?

Screw the headquarters’ system. It was true that it would never work under this time lockdown, not until the very last second. What did work was this lock that was supposed to be impenetrable. It was the only thing that was still functioning in this whole building but this lock followed what they called time.

Seohyun smashed the enter key and she leaned back with her arms crossed. The ending digit changed by seconds as usual but before they knew it, it sped up until all the numbers were turning into blurs, all affected by the one before it. 20 hours would disappear in a matter of seconds.

00:00:01…00:00:00.

The moment it hit zero, shifting sounds could be heard and lights flickered back on. Seohyun’s computers all flashed on as if awaken from hibernation. The sound of running electronics stunned the group and Seohyun quickly opened the sliding door.

Yoona felt her leaning surface shift and before she fell, her hand met ground to stop herself. The door was open.

“How did you think of it?” Sooyoung asked, awestruck by little maknae’s brilliance.

“I’ve always wanted time to go faster so that the next Keroro episode would be up,” Seohyun explained simply. “But time doesn’t change. The Earth rotates the way it does thanks to gravitational pull. However, everything that shows time in numbers to us, like a clock, doesn’t know that the Earth works this way. It’s manmade. Time to devices are just what we program it as. For this, I’ve changed it so that the lock’s interpretation of hours are what we know as seconds.”

At any other time, they would’ve thanked the heaven’s for granting such a genius to them and Sooyoung swore she would, but not now. The second problem had yet to be solved.

“Without Jessica, we can’t make the antidote,” Yoona repeated in desperation. Their worries were not yet over.

“Screw the antidote. Call for back up right now!”

“The set up would take too long! We should just go ahead!”

“If we don’t make IoSeph, it’s over whether we have back up or not!”

The others were discussing so impatiently that it made Tiffany have an headache along with her already aching heart. Tiffany’s eyes still burned from the tears and her hand clenched. There were so many things attacking her mind right now, so much to worry, so much to accept. Tiffany spun her chair around, palm covering her ears as she tried to shut out the noise. She didn’t want to hear that Jessica was gone. She didn’t want to hear her own sobs.

Her eyes could only see distorted images in front of her through the tears and Tiffany realized that Jessica had left something. Tiffany wiped her tears hastily with her sleeve, staring. Without hesitation, Tiffany grabbed it.

“This has Jessica’s blood,” Tiffany gasped to herself. Yoona rushed over and took it from her . She could not believe how fate had led them to this. The used bandage was crumpled but the dried blood was still there.

Taking a step back and then turning to a full out sprint, Yoona rushed back to the lab.

~~~~~~~~~

Their steps echoed eerily as they entered the next corridor in this maze. Every step caused their heart to jump slightly more. If there were people attacking them, the two would be reassured. It was that there were no one else after the level before that disturbed them.

“You know what, just let me down.”

Jessica turned at her voice, facing Yuri whose chin currently rested on her shoulder. With Jessica carrying her on her back after the battle, Yuri felt like a hindrance.

“You sure?”

“As much as I want to say no, yes I’m sure. If someone comes, we’d both be dead,” Yuri mumbled. Jessica lowered herself until Yuri’s feet met ground. Wheezing slightly, Yuri forced herself to stand. Jessica had never seen Yuri so torn up in all her life.

Yuri sucked on her bleeding lip as she turned the corner, gun raised. Yes, someone had indeed connected a fist to her face…well several to be totally honest. Her lip was swollen, her wrist bruised from a death grip, and her back felt sore from a hard slam to the ground. Her left eye seemed to have forgotten how to open fully.

Her hand lowered when she was met with emptiness once again. After the intense ambush of unbelievable fighters, the silence made her stomach swirl.

Jessica didn’t look nearly as bad as Yuri did, mainly because her cuts and bruises were no longer visible but she received a fair amount herself. Jessica cursed at the thought that Simeon’s IoSeph slaves are getting stronger and more in control. They put up an unbelievable fight that Jessica would surely remember for the next few years…if she lived that long.

Suddenly, there were sound of footsteps behind them. Jessica and Yuri swerved, guns raised at the incomer yet he had already turned and ran to another hallway. They only caught a short glimpse of him.

“Don’t follow him,” Jessica ordered, feeling unsettled by the fact that he didn’t attack them but Yuri already bounded forward. That man, even if Jessica couldn’t recognize him, Yuri could. The back of the man that Yuri had always wanted at home.

“Yuri!” Jessica hollered after her. “Stop!”

Nothing was going to hold her back. Despite her beaten state, Yuri swore that she would capture her father. No way was she going to let him get away. That back that haunted her all through her childhood was making swift turns with such agility that proved his familiarity with the setting. Yuri’s arms pumped at her sides as she chased after him, foot crashing to the ground at each corner for a sharp turn.

“KWON YURI!” Jessica shouted after her. This was wrong. There was no way her father would willingly come out weaponless and without anyone guarding him. There was just no friggin way. Jessica knew Yuri’s emotions were getting to her, eliminating her logic and filling her with reckless decisions.

Her father disappeared behind a door and before Yuri could run after, it slammed shut. Yuri pounded on the door that ended her chase in frustration and with pure hatred. Jessica finally managed to catch up, finding Yuri already firing in vain at the blockage. The moment Jessica entered the corridor, the door behind that they had passed had snapped shut, trapping them inside. The vents above flipped and closed.

Before they could react any further, an unknown gas released. Yuri felt herself lose strength almost immediately, her feet failing to meet firm ground. Yuri shook her head to rectify her spinning vision.

“Yuri! Yuri!” Jessica called, hurrying to her. Yuri staggered backwards, blinking at the sight of several Jessicas running up to her, fading in and out. Her head burned and was losing consciousness. A second later, Yuri fell.

“Yuri!” Jessica shouted out, shaking her unconscious self. It was a trap that Mr. Kwon knew Yuri would fall head first into. Jessica could feel herself losing her mind too. Though not as quickly as Yuri with IoSeph backing her up but the lack of oxygen was making her breathing suffer.

“Yuri. Yuri…yur…”

And she fainted.

~~~~~~~~

Gun at her side, Tiffany bolted out the pathetic building that had trapped her for too long. Despite the rest of her team calling her to wait for full support from the police force, her insides burned with anger more than anything else. She wanted a damn good reason as to why Jessica thought leaving was okay.

She charged out from the lobby and onto the road. A loud screech coming from a hasty turn and Tiffany turned to find a red sports car aiming right at her. Before they connected, the car reached a screechy stop a meter away from Tiffany. She gaped at the sight of Yoona as the driver.

“Get in!” Yoona called but Tiffany hesitated.

“What are you doing?!” Tiffany shouted at the scientist. “You’re supposed to working on the antidote!”

“Joseph and Sunny can deal with it! I’m coming with you to find them!”

“NO!” Tiffany objected immediately, hands slamming onto the front of her car. “You’re not trained for this. You deal with chemicals Yoona. You don’t deal with the danger that’s meant for our team!”

“I don’t care enough about whose job it is or not. You think I don’t want an answer to the two leaving like that?” Yoona retorted. “If you want to get there then you’re either getting into my car now or I’m going without you.”

That was the end of this conversation. Hands clenching into fists, Tiffany pulled away reluctantly, thoughts running into her head. Moving to the side, Tiffany jumped into shotgun.

With her in, Yoona gunned the pedal.

~~~~~~~~~~~

“Wake her.”

And without warning, cold water drenched her forcing her to wake.

Her mind had never been so hazy in her entire life. The images in front of her pulsed yet Yuri could still make out the two people who were also in this room. She recognized them. Yuri’s head rolled on her shoulders, trying to regain focus and noticed how this room was like a cell. Windowless, just four gray brown walls, trapping her in this box.

Yuri tried to move her hands but they were tied and pressed against the back of the chair she was sitting on.

“F you.”

“And cheers to you,” her father replied genially. “Very surprised Yuri. Or well, pleasantly surprised that you would chase me down to this length. Enough to ignore the fact that it was obviously a trap.”

Yuri shut her eyes in response to her failure. Her father was right.

“Maybe because this time I don’t want to see you go away…” Yuri breathed out and felt the other occupant flinch as if it was directed at him instead. Jaejoong regained his stance fast enough for Mr. Kwon not to notice. Yuri laughed out loud at his reaction and Mr. Kwon’s eyes narrowed.

“Funny my dear?”

“Very,” Yuri sneered weakly. “I don’t want to see you go away ever again. I want you in the cell I’ve already cleaned out for you so I can watch how you pay for all that you’ve done.”

Mr. Kwon’s jaw clenched and moved towards her. His hand connected to her face and Yuri could feel her cheek burn from where he hit. That b****** slapped her.

“Not really the way to talk to your father is it?”

“I’m sorry, I don’t see anyone who can call themselves my father. Are you talking about him?” Yuri responded, gaze turning to Jaejoong. “Gave birth to me when he was four huh?”

Another slap connected to the other side of her face. Mr. Kwon then let out a sickening smile.

“Yes, maybe so. I have never wanted to be your father in the first place,” he said ever so calmly. Yuri’s hands clenched behind her chair.

“Who would want a clingy child who cried whenever she fails to get someone’s attention? So desperate,” Mr. Kwon asked, shaking his head in disapproval as he walked back beside Jaejoong.

“Did you know that the more desperate one is, the less valuable they become?”

Yuri chuckled at his words.

“Can I possibly drop any lower? If I could, then you wouldn’t be the one to lure me into the trap. But no, I’ve hit rock bottom.”

Yuri slowly lifted her head to look at that face once again.

“You’re right though. I was a clingy kid. I’m stupid for even believing. You’re stupid for believing,” Yuri said, her eyes aimed right at Jaejoong. Though he wanted to pull away, he could not until Mr. Kwon placed a hand over his shoulder. Mr. Kwon had enough of this conversation.

“Kill her.”

Jaejoong looked at him and then back at Yuri. Mr. Kwon crossed his arm, waiting for Jaejoong to pull out his gun. Jaejoong swallowed slowly as he did.

“What? Not going to kill me yourself?!” Yuri yelled at him, her hands twisting furiously behind her. Anger boiled inside her. “Finish the job! You’ve killed mom, you’ve killed my brother. Why not finish the last one who tarnishes your blood?!”

“You think I wouldn’t?” Mr. Kwon seethed, fist clenched. “No, I’m just letting this boy have a reason to attain the reward I intend to give him. He has my trust. He will get power.”

Jaejoong blinked at the sudden announcement. Yuri let out a derisive laugh as her father tried to confuse him even more.

“Of course, how noble. I don’t care anymore dad,” Yuri jeered. “I’d rather you do it. Don’t screw someone else’s life over. He deserves better, so much better than what you can offer!”

Mr. Kwon stomped over once again, his temper rising. He lowered himself to look at Yuri straight in the face.

“That mouth, that snarky mouth. I remember your mother always talking back and you know what happened to her when someone goes against me.”

Yuri spat at his face and he flinched, wiping it furiously off his face.

“Funny. I’ve always thought I got this mouth from you,” Yuri seethed, her hands twisting behind her. Mr. Kwon swung his arm back to hit her again but his hand never met. Yuri’s hands broke free after much effort. One hand stopped his and the other sent a ferocious punch. Mr. Kwon was sent backwards from the force and Yuri immediately untied her feet. The moment she was free, Yuri grabbed his collar and offered punch after punch. Mr. Kwon retaliated with a kick that pushed her back. Mr. Kwon brushed the blood from his mouth with the back of his hand.

“Shoot her you idiot!” he yelled at Jaejoong who seemed startled at the order. As Yuri lifted herself from the ground and charged towards her father again, a gunshot rang.

Something hit her squarely on her back and Yuri lost strength in her legs. She fell, kneeing as if surrendering in front of her father. She was so close to returning. She was so close to a happy ending. Yoona. He ruined it for her once again. Yuri toppled to the floor with her father as her last image.

Chapter Twenty Nine

The vehicle smashed through the gate and straight into warehouse. The car collided with crates as it spun to a stop. Without even pulling her keys out, Yoona jumped out of her car with Tiffany right behind her. Tiffany had drawn out her gun and had already located the hidden staircase hidden by the tower of crates they had knocked over.

They entered hurriedly, jumping over the bodies that they know Jessica and Yuri had left. They were here for sure. If they could just find them before anything happened. Yoona and Tiffany faced their first split in the corridor.

“Tiffany, go right and I’ll go left,” Yoona said and Tiffany turned to her immediately, taken aback.

“Are you sure?”

Yoona gave her a firm nod. If they want to find them fast, it would have to be this or nothing. Tiffany reluctantly nodded and ran off to the right. Yoona then turned left.

~~~~~~~~~~

Her eyes slowly opened and her vision rectified soon after. Jessica squinted at the sight in front of her. The room was huge, extending to at all levels of the building and they were at the very bottom. There windows from the other rooms of the floors above. This must be the heart of the building. She tried to move her hands but it was tied back by chains. Jessica sneered. It was as if he knew that rope could not hold her. He understood IoSeph well.

Jessica’s attention then returned to what was in front of her. It was empty except for one thing. Here she saw the back of a man, barely paying attention to her, at what seemed to be a long desk filled with flasks and other instruments. This was where Simeon experiments.

“You’re awake now,” he stated still not turning to face her. “Faster than I thought. The doings of the original IoSeph. Nothing less than what I expected.”

“Simeon,” Jessica breathed out. Even with her strength, the chains refused to budge. The tightness was restricting blood to flow into her hands.

Simeon gave a sinister smile to the flask he was holding, as if finally finishing his masterpiece. He then turned to face Jessica with the same smile, holding up the flask for her to see.

“This is what you may call ‘IoSeph’,” he started, pointing to the red liquid. “But to me, this surpasses what IoSeph can do. It can kill.”

“Not that your failure of copying my father’s work hasn’t already,” Jessica hissed but Simeon seemed unfazed.

“Those that were sold were merely made to satisfy a certain money crazy man. Kwon wanted money and I needed his to create my own form of IoSeph. I question myself. Why would I want to continue making something made by someone I detest?”

Jessica’s jaw clenched when she realized he was talking about her father.

“What did my father ever do to you?” Jessica asked furiously. Simeon chuckled.

“Let me see. Joseph Jung. A word renowned scientist. He had the ability to make the most extraordinary things. He was respected for his intelligence. I respected him too. Very much in fact. I knew your father for a long time since we’ve first studied and pushed the boundaries of science.”

Simeon paced around calmly.

“He was intelligent. To say that everyone fell in his shadows was no exaggeration. Joseph Jung was a person that one could deeply despise and admire all at once. But that fool dumped everything he had, leaving the scientific world behind. He dumped the place where I wanted to make a mark on ever since I’ve started.”

He shook his head, thinking of Joseph’s idiocy.

“It was pathetic to see people grovel, hoping to convince him back, to lead them. What the old imbeciles that ran the scientific industry failed to recognize was that Joseph wasn’t the only one who could achieve miracles, to make scientific discoveries that could shake the world. I never even got a chance,” he spat.

“So I wanted to know what could’ve possibly made Joseph run away from his more than bright future. They all started rumors of secret experiments and they all believed that once Joseph was done, he would expose it to the world. It was more than ridiculous when I found out that Joseph was wasting all his time on one thing. The pathetic illness that only his daughter had.”

Simeon was now glaring at Jessica in a whole new level of hatred.

“At that time, IoSeph benefited no one other than you. You were the only one who ever had the virus your mother had. If you died, nothing would have changed. It was designed for you meaning no one else could use it. They would simply die from it,” Simeon hissed, breathing out his anger that had trapped him for so long. “So it all came down to just you. The world could survive with one less person yet he spent so much TIME on you. The same amount of time that has been taken away from me because all they cared was Joseph Jung.”

Simeon was laughing now. There was no humour.

“If it had been something worthwhile I might have hated him less but it wasn’t. You really aren’t worth my time Jessica. You aren’t worth anyone’s,” Simeon threw at her and Jessica met his hard gaze with her own.

“I wanted him to find a place where he could finally reminiscence on the time he took for making IoSeph. A place where he would be hated by the one he tried so hard to save. A jail cell seemed perfect didn’t it?”

Simeon smiled when Jessica struggled to keep her anger in. That b******.

“Damian was helpful. With his help, Joseph found his spot in jail. IoSeph was finally exposed. Medical drug to save his daughter? No,” he said, shaking his head, “It was recognized for a drug that killed many people. Joseph went down in a flash. It was over.”

“Then why the hell did you bring it back out?” Jessica shouted at him, chains cutting into her wrist as she yearned to attack him. “Why the hell are you using IoSeph again? If you hated my father, you would not have used his creation!”

“I have been working on my own. The characteristics of IoSeph was only the beginning. I made this instead,” Simeon replied, turning back to the flask he held in his hand. The red liquid sloshed as he swirled the flask in a taunting way.

“You know what the odd thing was? Joseph’s murderous drug still gained more attention than me and what I could offer to benefit the world. Between him and I, they always chose him. How was that possible? It wasn’t fair.”

“From that though, I finally understood something that people will recognize. Scientific breakthroughs were one thing. Deaths were another that could be recognized and understood immediately,” he explained, his voice slowly turning demented. It was his enjoyment in talking about death that made Jessica shudder.

“Everyone understands death and what scares them most is what they remember most. I want them to remember my name. I want them to know that the man that could have offered them great things has been ignored and has now returned to deliver what they forced him to create. I want them to remember that I’m the man that brought them death. I want them to remember Simeon Laurenco, not Joseph Jung. I am Simeon Laurenco!”

He was crazed. Simeon’s craving for attention had turned him insane. He placed the flask back down on the table, turning his back to Jessica.

“Surely you understand how I feel Jessica right? Attention was something Joseph never lacked. You and me? We experienced something different. You should hate him the way I do. He could never share what he had so naturally to us.”

Jessica’s hands turned into fists from behind. She would never want to find anything in common with this sick ******* yet she could not deny what he just said. She had desired for attention. She had thought that receiving none from her father didn’t seem to be a fair exchange for being alive. Jessica rather die. That was the burning feeling she felt when she had the motorcycle accident. Was it better to live without love or live for a short time but be loved?

“He loved me…” Jessica told Simeon. Her voice did not waver. She was certain now. “I was stupid for not knowing but I know now. He loved me. What he sacrificed for me alone was something only a person that knew love could do. My dad gave me chance to understand love myself, not just looking for attention but something much deeper.”

Jessica could hear the decreased rate of Simeon’s actions. He was listening to her.

“Yes, I’ve experienced what you have but I don’t hate him. No matter what happened, deep inside I still thought of him. I once thought it was wrong to love a dad that never showered me with the attention that a normal child received so I hid it. I hid it, pretending I truly hated him when I secretly loved him, that I wanted him back by my side. “

Jessica shut her eyes to clear away the tears that were starting to build.

“It’s no longer a secret…I love him just as much as he loves me. Simeon, I’m not like you. I don’t ever want to be like you. You can hate him all you want but you know he couldn’t care less about how you feel. To him, you’re not worth his time, just like how you think he is not worth the world’s.”

Jessica could feel mixed emotions swirling inside Simeon, his mind conflicted and bothered.

“Simeon, you don’t need to prove that you’re better than him. You can’t win and you can’t lose. There was never such a competition to begin with. If you continue this, you will only be recognized as a killer. That sort of attention is nothing to be proud of!”

Simeon’s hands clenched on the table as he thought of what she had said. Jessica could feel his uncertainty. If only he could finally realize that killing everyone would do nothing for him.

Suddenly, his phone rang, breaking the silence. Simeon seemed to have awoken from his thoughts, lifting his phone to his ear.

“Damian,” he said calmly.

“There are two more running around here,” a low voice issued out and Jessica felt her heart sink like never before when she heard.

Simeon seemed to have broken free from Jessica’s words. His decision was set.

“Kill them both.”

~~~~~~~~

Tiffany sent her knee straight into the man’s stomach and watched him sink to the ground. She kicked him lightly on the side to ensure his unconsciousness before running forward to the next corridor. Without warning, another one lunged at her and they crashed through the door to her right. Tiffany felt her weapon drop as they rolled. Tiffany’s eyes widened when she recognized who this man was. Damian.

Tiffany tucked her foot in, planting it firmly to his chest and pushed out. Damian fell meters away but was back on his feet in a flash. Tiffany rolled her body back, hands meeting the ground on either side of her head and flipped herself back up. Her chest heaved as her hands turned into fists. Tiffany scanned the room for her gun but before she could search anymore, Damian shot forward.

His arm seemed perfectly healed as he threw punch after punch, some that Tiffany dodged and some that hit. As Damian performed a dangerous roundhouse kick at her, Tiffany rolled herself over the table in the room, lucky enough to see his kick meet thin air instead of her face.

Damian jumped on top and then over, chasing his prey. Tiffany dodged in time to feel his fist only an inch away. Her hand wrapped around his arm, twisting it to his back but Damian also found a way out. His body twisted to match the direction in which Tiffany pulled and instead captured Tiffany in his grip.

Tiffany grunted when she felt her arm pulled painfully, turning in a way it should never. Tiffany swerved, her other elbow aimed at his face but was blocked by his palm. His attention distracted, Tiffany kicked him hard wherever her foot could reach and felt his grip slacken. Immediately pulling away, Tiffany flung a fist that connected to his face before he could react.

With this time, Tiffany found her gun in the corner of the room and immediately lunged for it but her foot was caught by Damian. Falling forwards, Damian beat her to it and took her gun in his hand.

Tiffany froze as the gun aimed at her and Damian pulled her up roughly by her collar. Damian flung her against the wall made of entirely glass, his gun still raised.

“Look,” he ordered and Tiffany slowly turned. Her hand slammed against the glass when she found herself looking down at two people, one she recognized to be Jessica tied to a chair.

“Jessica!” she screamed, her hand pounding on the glass, and saw Jessica’s head look up at the sound. She watched Jessica struggle to move but it wasn’t enough. Damian caught her attention again when he clicked the hammer down.

Tiffany braced herself as the gunshot rang. It did not hit.

Tiffany opened her eyes and found that the bullet had just missed, creating a perfect hole in the window she leaned on. Damian threw the gun down and it smashed into pieces.

“I have repaid my debt to her. She saved my life by stopping me from drinking IoSeph that day and now I spare the one she loves.”

Damian took a few steps back before returning to his fighting stance.

“But that’s it. There’s nothing left to hold me back from killing you. No weapons.”

Tiffany pushed herself up, taking one last look at Jessica before returning to Damian, her fists raised. Tiffany wasn’t going to lose again. She promised herself that she wouldn’t.

Chapter Thirty

She wasn’t even given a chance to step out of the corridor before rapid gunshots were aimed at her. Yoona spun back to hide behind the corner as the bullets sent bits and pieces of the wall flying. Yoona fumbled with her gun and just as the row of bullets in the machine gun ended, Yoona ran across the intersection, shooting at the gunner. Bullets hit the wall behind and missed as he too hid behind the corner.

They took turns shooting at each other and Yoona shot furiously, ducking when he aimed his machine gun at her. Her finger pulled the trigger again and again but sheer quantity was enough to tip her chances. Yoona heard her gun click as she pressed it and immediately hid behind. It was out of bullets and it only showed how inexperienced she was with a gun.

“Come out, you’re out of bullets,” he stated, coming out of his hiding spot and stepping on the rubble he created. Yoona breathed heavily, weighing her choices. Yoona walked out, hands raised with her gun in plain view.

His gun was still raised at her and Yoona had to think fast. As the man slowly walked towards her, Yoona waited for the exact moment. In a flash, Yoona threw her gun at the lights above, sinking to the ground immediately after as the gunshots aimed at her, and sparks showered down. The man recoiled, arms shielding his head. Before he could see anymore, Yoona rammed into him. They slammed into the opposing wall with the man as her cushion. Yoona threw a fist into his stomach and watched his grip on the gun loosen. Taking it from him, Yoona smashed the gun at his head.

The gunner slumped and slid to the ground unconscious. Yoona could hardly believe that she had just did that. Having no practice in the physical department, this came as a big surprise. Breathing heavily, Yoona took the machine gun with her and backed up a few steps to pick up the gun Jessica had given her. She then continued on to find Yuri.

~~~~~~~~~

“Wake up, wake up,” a voice said and she felt slaps against her face. As she tried to lean forward, she felt a spot on her back that ached from impact.

“Thank god…” the same voice muttered as he helped her up. Yuri might have mistaken but that voice belonged to Jaejoong.

“What are you doing?” she mumbled as she tried to sit up but then suddenly remembered.

“You shot me!”

Jaejoong shook his head, pulling out his gun as proof.

“I used rubber bullets. The force is strong enough for it to hurt and might cause the person to pass out. I don’t want to kill you Yuri. I don’t want to kill anyone. I’m done with this.”

Jaejoong lifted her to her feet while quickly explaining.

“You’re right, I was stupid for believing. After I saw how Mr. Kwon treated you, it seemed impossible that he was what I was looking for,” he said quietly, shaking his head. “It seems that you know both me and your father a lot better than I do.”

Yuri staggered for a second and held a hand up to decline the help from Jaejoong.

“I can stand…” she muttered while Jaejoong gave her a hard look.

“Your father left me to take care of your body but he might realize something’s not right. Get out of here right now. Forget about capturing him. Wait until you have support,” Jaejoong told her and Yuri shook her head no.

“There’s no way I’m leaving here myself. I need to find Jessica and I am going to arrest my father if it’s the last thing I do,” Yuri growled, regaining the strength to stand on her own.

“I thought you would say that…”

To her surprise, Jaejoong pulled out another gun and handed it to her.

“I know I can’t convince you to go but if you’re sure about this, I can help. I know this building and I know where they have taken Jessica. As for the remaining guards, I cleared a bunch of them for you. They didn’t exactly look into what they were drinking…”

Jaejoong opened the door and looked left and right before rushing out, gesturing Yuri to follow. The two bounded towards the end of the hall, needing to take the stairs down to find Jessica.

~~~~~~~~~

Tiffany was panting, the side of her mouth swollen from a hard punch. Damian was nothing less of a fighter and an incredible one at that. He knew how to fight and at a level that Tiffany feared she might not be able to match. Nonetheless, she would rather die than to give up like this.

She threw herself forward, launching kicks of all sorts. Her movement blurred as she took turns spinning on each foot. Damian’s upper body bent back to dodge the incoming roundhouse kick but failed to block the next . Immediately after her rotation, she planted her right foot down and kicked back into his chest. He staggered backwards but regained his balance quickly. Damian shielded himself against her other attacks with his arms and pushed her back with a front kick which Tiffany was forced to reel back to avoid.

As Damian chased her across the room, Tiffany ran towards the wall, using it as a rebound to land a punch straight at his face. Damian reacted quickly enough for it not to collide but the impact pushed him back nonetheless.

The widened space between them allowed Tiffany to pace her movements, slowly inching towards her right so that the table now stood between them. Damian followed her, waiting for her to make a sudden move. And she did.

Tiffany kicked the table forward forcefully and sent it towards Damian. He stopped it with both hands firmly on its edge. His hands occupied, Tiffany followed the table forward and launched her entire body over. The kick collided, Tiffany’s left arm and side to cushion her fall. Tiffany rolled against the wooden surface and her legs whirled to propel herself back up.

Damian spat the blood that welled up in his mouth from that kick. He gave her less credit than he should’ve. His eyes flickered to the fighter that stood above him on the table. He had never lost a fight. Only once and that was against Jessica. That time, he blamed his injured arm. This time was different.

Damian let out a frustrated yell before he threw himself at her again. Damian thrust his foot under the table, sending it flying but not before Tiffany jumped off. The table was tossed forcefully against the weakened windows and it shattered the entire screen. It disappeared to the floor below and smashed into pieces. Now, it was just him and her.

~~~~~~~~

Reckless. That was the only word Yoona could describe how she handled the gun. It worked miracles though.

Yoona felt lost, not sure as to where she should go when all of a sudden, someone rammed into her roughly on the side, sending her gun away. Yoona groaned in pain as she scrambled back onto her feet. The attacker was enormous and was looking for a kill, predator eyes looking down at her. Yoona felt her heart drop to immeasurable depths. IoSeph slave and the worst of them all.

“You,” he slurred, pointing at her with rolling eyes. Yoona cringed at the, she didn’t want to be mean but couldn’t help it, revolting being.

“Me,” Yoona tried to sound calm.

“Kwon’s daughter,” he huffed and Yoona raised a brow.

“Okay clearly, someone has never seen Yuri before. Am I grinning like an idiot right now?” Yoona asked him incredulously but before she could make another sarcastic remark, the log charged at her. Yoona found herself screaming as she ducked and luckily so because the wall behind her broke into pieces.

“Oh my god,” Yoona breathed out, trying to grab whatever weapon was available. The beast roared, pulling his fist back and glared at her again.

“Kwon!”

Yoona ran into the halls, having him chase after her. She was not going to win in a fight. Heck, she wouldn’t even win if she had a bazooka and he was standing still. Yoona darted down the stairs, thinking. His growls could be heard as he chased after her. Of all people, she had managed to get the biggest, ugliest and most inhumane out of them all.

Yoona turned quickly down the next level while the beast jumped across. Yoona slid down the last few steps as the whole staircase shook, a small crater forming at where he landed. Like his fists, his weight could destroy the best of cement.

An idea came.

“Kwon’s daughter is right here!” she shouted, having him follow. Smaller and quicker, Yoona kicked the door open to her right and ran down the hallway. Knowing he was following, Yoona darted for the other set of staircases on the opposing side of the building. Instead of going down like she did before, she ran up.

Between the two floors, she kept rotating between them and the beast followed without having a single idea as to what she was up to. Up and then across to the set of stairs she was before. Yoona ran over to the crater he had created from the first round and stood waiting for him.

“I’m Kwon Yuri! I drink Ma every day!” she shouted whatever came to mind in panic and for some reason the bulky man seemed to hate the name Kwon a lot. He roared in anger, climbing over the rail and jumped over again. Yoona leapt from her spot down the remaining steps, rolling her landing chaotically.

The monster slammed down on all fours, deepening the crater. Yoona repeated it, running through the exact same path and always ridiculing him at her now favourite spot.

“Kwon Yuri is not dead!” she screamed at him and he came again. He crashed into the crater except this time, it broke through. The stairs collapsed and he fell down, gravity and his abnormal weight crashing through several more.

Yoona ran to the railings, looking down at what used to be a spiral of staircases. The beast had broken through the stairs with his weight and was more than several floors down, lying on his back and breathing with extreme difficultly. Cuts and bruises painted his skin and even he was hurt from this great of a drop.

Yoona panted, backing away and pushed the door next to her to the hall.

“Brain over brawn, brain over brawn,” Yoona muttered, picking up random weapons that were scattered on the floor. “And I’m not Kwon’s daughter. I’m Kwon’s daughter’s girlfriend.”

~~~~~~~~

Tiffany’s body curved back, feeling the swish of knuckles that just flew over her nose and sprung back up to launch her own fist. Sweat blurred her vision and adrenaline powered her every move yet Damian wasn’t going to give in. Her fist was caught in his hand and Damian pulled her in.

She felt as if her skull had split into two when his fist crunched against her head. Tiffany tripped backwards, stumbling to the ground. Tiffany blinked furiously to stop the double vision she was experiencing. Blood slowly trickled down from underneath her hair and seeped into her mouth. The taste of her own blood was sickening.

Damian was satisfied with his work, a smirk formed as he panted for air. He was in a pretty bad state himself. A swollen eye and an aching arm thanks to her numerous attacks. His body swayed in exhaustion as he stood straight. One more blow would kill her.

Tiffany shook her head, trying her best to stabilize her senses. She forced her hands to meet ground and pushed herself up with trembling arms. She staggered under her own weight and limp fists were back in front. The flow of red stained her forehead and followed the trail down, colouring the side of her nose, her lips and lingered at the tip of her chin. Each drip of her blood that fell matched the pounding inside her head.

“You’re still willing to fight?” Damian panted and was met with an unfocused gaze.

“Yes…” she whispered, her fists clenching. Damian accepted her answer. Tiffany was moving much slower than before, her wavering senses starting to get to her. Damian took advantage by locking her wrists in one hand and landing consecutive punches at her side. Her rib cage were crumbling under his fist.

Refusing to lose, Tiffany used his grip on her hands and pulled him to the floor with her. As Damian fell forwards, Tiffany planted both feet against his stomach, sending him flying overhead as she rolled back. Damian crashed to the wall with a sickening thud that pained him like hell.

Before he could cry out his pain, Damian was lifted from the ground. Tiffany grabbed the back of his shirt to pull him up with the remains of her strength. Tiffany punched him mercilessly in the stomach and spun to elbow him on the back. Damian coughed painfully as she knocked the wind out of him. Falling back to the floor, Damian gasped for air with his now dysfunctional lungs. His mouth opened and closed, gasping for air while his eyes rolled. His focus was deteriorating and so was everything else.

Tiffany fell down, her legs too weak to even stand. Bruises replaced her skin as she stared at the defenseless man in front of her. She could finish him. One more hit and he would be gone.

Instead, Tiffany used her hands to pull herself towards the broken window. She dragged her body through until she could see the floor below. Her eyes met another’s.

“Jessica...”

~~~~~~~~

Yoona moved quickly down the stairs, her new machine gun aimed at those that chased her from above. Finishing them by shooting wildly, Yoona continued down and was unprepared for a door that suddenly flew open.

Yoona jumped backwards, gun at the ready. The incomer swerved immediately, aiming his own gun at her. Both of their eyes widened when realizing they were at gunpoint.

“Yoona!”

Yoona flinched at the call of her name and it was Yuri who said it.

Yuri’s hand placed on top of Jaejoong’s gun and pushed it down as she ran towards Yoona. Yuri hugged her tightly before releasing her and looked at her with a worried expression.

“Why are you here?” Yuri demanded as she inspected for injuries. “You idiot, we locked down the building for a reason!”

“We can’t just stay there knowing that you and Jessica are gone. I can’t let you leave me again.”

Yuri looked straight into her deep brown eyes and felt her emotions swell.

“Are you hurt?” Yuri demanded immediately after, circling Yoona to check for anything that slightly resembled an injury. Yuri had completely forgotten that they were in Simeon’s building, armed with crazy fighters as she continued her thorough examination.

Yoona shook her head, indicating that she was fine but Yuri wasn’t. Yoona grabbed her wrist so that she would stop to face her. Yoona touched the countless bruises and cuts on Yuri’s face and body with her fingers and Yuri winced slightly.

“Yuri,” Yoona breathed out, unable to find words to describe her heartbreak. Tears started building in her eyes.

“Please don’t cry,” Yuri said softly. Yuri’s hands cupped Yoona’s face and leaned closer.

“I promise you that I’m going to take you out of here alive unharmed. I swear I will,” she promised and kissed her once before taking her hand. She gave Jaejoong a swift nod, indicating a quick change of plan. Jaejoong nodded and understood immediately. The two followed his guide when suddenly something struck.

“You said ‘we’,” Yuri said, turning to face Yoona. “You don’t mean…”

Yoona’s eyes flickered and licked her lips anxiously.

“Tiffany’s here too.”

Yuri could feel her worries intensify, her heart pounding against her. The fear of her two friends still in danger grew. Tightening her grip on Yoona’s hand, she led her to follow Jaejoong.

Knowing his way, Jaejoong pushed open a door and found themselves staring at an enclosed cylinder with a ladder than stretched above.

“You can climb this and return to the surface,” he explained hastily. Yuri pulled Yoona in front to face her, taking hold of her hands.

“Yoona, listen to me. Climb up with Jaejoong and call for help or something.”

“You-“

“I can’t go with you until I find Jessica and Tiffany. Trust me that I will come out of here alive with the both of them,” Yuri stated before Yoona could interrupt. “Please trust me Yoona.”

Yoona wanted to refuse but she couldn’t say no to her.

“I love you,” she finally said softly. Yuri gave her a swift kiss and let go of her hands. The sight of her going away reminded Yoona of how Yuri had left her the day she quit. It hurt her so much to see Yuri go again.

Yuri moved back into the building. Her gun clicked in preparation as she wandered back in. She had to find Tiffany. She had to find Jessica. And she had to find her father.

Chapter Thirty One

Tears drenched her face as she watched the two fight from above. The table that smashed onto their floor had Jessica screaming Tiffany’s name. Her hands clenched trying to break through the impossible. The metal chains held her tight as she struggled to move.

“TIFFANY!” she screamed. She had never felt so helpless before. Jessica twisted her arms and felt the metal choking her wrists but she didn’t care. Jessica wanted to go to her right now. She swore to protect her.

Her heart shattered into a billion pieces when she saw Tiffany’s face covered with blood as she called for her.

“Jessica…”

Simeon frowned, knowing that Damian had failed him but he was not going to let Jessica survive. One life for another. He turned to face Tiffany and then Jessica.

“There’s never a happy ending for those that wish to help,” Simeon mused as he took steps closer to Jessica. “In the end, all of you will simply be forgotten. You all were just sacrifices.”

Simeon leaned down in front of Jessica and pulled out a cutter. Jessica’s eyes widened and without warning, he slashed her in one swift movement. Jessica felt the sharp pain on her cheek. A line of blood formed and she felt the throbbing pain. In mere seconds though, the cut on her face healed. It was no longer there, leaving her face unblemished. Jessica glared at him while Simeon nodded approvingly.

“This is a power of the real IoSeph. It heals very quickly. Death doesn’t come easy for you does it?” he applauded mockingly. “My drug on the other hand kills just as quickly. I have always wanted to test it out. It’s a race against two formidable creations. Let’s see who wins, Joseph Jung or me but I can guarantee that I will be the victor.”

Simeon stood back up and returned to the table that held his drug. Simeon took out a syringe that sucked out the red drug he had created.

Jessica breathed heavily as she met Tiffany’s gaze once again. The dread filling up her chest was not out of fear. It was because Jessica was not able to be with her one last time. They would soon be separated by more than just distance.

Tiffany wept as she watched Simeon give her a sick smile and mocked her with the needle in his hand. Tiffany wanted to scream. Tiffany wanted to do anything not to watch this scene but her eyes could not tear away. Tiffany just couldn’t turn away from her.

“Why did you leave alone Jessica?” she cried. “Why are you always leaving me?”

Tiffany wiped her tears with the back of her hand and yelled at her.

“You’re a liar Jessica! You told me you’d take me to Japan. You told me we were going to deal with everything together! You have no right to break all the promises we made together! You can’t leave me!” she shouted at her, her tears flowing uncontrollably. “You just can’t!”

Jessica swallowed what seemed to be the greatest regret in her life. She had failed to fulfill any of her promises to her. She wanted to make everything alright. She couldn’t and she was sorry. Jessica cleared her throat, afraid that she would choke on her final words.

“I know that you think what I did was wrong but if it is a choice between being right and protecting you,” Jessica said as clearly as possible despite her trembling voice. She needed Tiffany to hear this from the floor above. Jessica closed her eyes and tears that she fought so hard to keep in fell once again. Jessica forced them to open and met Tiffany’s with watery eyes, begging for her to understand.

“I will be wrong every single time.”

~~~~~~~~~~~

Jaejoong used all his strength to push the lid open. The moment it did, sunlight blinded the pair that were trying to climb up. Yoona’s heart was pounding. She truly trusted Yuri. She really did but she couldn’t leave. She just couldn’t.

To Jaejoong’s surprise, he felt something snatched away from his belt and he looked down shocked. Yoona climbed down quickly and jumped the last few, landing evenly with her knee touching ground. Yoona took the stolen cartridge and slammed it into her gun. She ran forward despite Jaejoong’s calls.

She didn’t care anymore. Yoona didn’t want to play damsel in distress. She didn’t want to be the one that needed to be saved. Most of all, she didn’t want to be the one left to regret and remember it all if anything went wrong. No matter what happened, Yoona was going to stay with her. Yoona meant it, every single word she had said to Yuri. She loved her.

~~~~~~~~

Yuri ran through the building and found the place where Jaejoong had told her. It was where her father was. Yuri kicked the door open and faced the more than shocked expression on her father’s face.

“You-“ was all he could stutter before Yuri shot just inches away from his face. The wall was now grazed with a hole and Mr. Kwon could still hear the ringing in his ears.

“Alive and well,” Yuri seethed through gritted teeth. Her father was unprepared for another confrontation and especially not one where Yuri pointed a gun at him. Mr. Kwon’s hand slowly sneaked into the drawer of the desk he stood behind and in a flash brought out his own gun. He shot blindly at his target but Yuri was much quicker than him.

Yuri ducked behind the smallest shields and darted across the room. Grabbing onto whatever she could, she launched the object across the room. Mr. Kwon jerked in that direction, shooting the clock down before realizing. At the moment’s break, Yuri threw herself across the floor and aimed at the only unprotected space the table offered. Her shot hit his ankle and Mr. Kwon yelped in pain, his gun dropping to the floor.

Yuri marched right up to the desk he was hiding behind and grabbed his collar. She pulled him over the table and down to the floor. She now towered over the father she hated so much, her foot firmly on his chest. His back was no longer facing her. Instead, it was his pathetic face.

“Don’t kill me,” he begged, hands open, pleading. Yuri’s gun aimed at him, finger on the trigger. Her expression was cold and her resemblance to her father was daunting. No longer would he ever leave a mark in her life ever again.

Yuri lifted her foot off, dropping her hand to her side.

“I’m not like you,” she whispered. “I’m not a coldblooded killer.”

Yuri kicked him so that he rolled over. Yuri’s knee held him down as she took his wrists. The handcuffs she had taken from WYE headquarters was now clasped onto each wrist. Yuri lifted her knee and bent lower to meet her father’s terrified gaze.

“You are no longer my father and I am no longer your daughter.”

Her hand reached for her back pocket and pulled out her pride, something that her father had never touched and would never tarnish.

“But I am a police officer,” she said firmly and showed him her badge. “Kwon Yuri, member of the special police force W.Y.E., second in command. Proud to serve.”

~~~~~~~~

“Enough of this,” Simeon threw out, looking at Jessica with a hard gaze and then his face slowly split into a crazed smile.

“Should I kill her before I kill you? It makes more sense because I want you dead on both accounts. I can let your heart die and then you will follow.”

The chains rattled as Simeon went to his table, picking up the gun that sat there waiting. His hand raised, aiming for Tiffany. She was too tired to run, too exhausted to escape but most reluctant to leave Jessica.

Her whole body screamed in effort to break free. Jessica’s knuckles were purely white as fists fought to pull away from the other. The chain strained as it kept getting pushed to its limit. She would not let Tiffany die. She had to at least keep one of her promises.

Simeon pushed the hammer down when he suddenly heard chains falling to the ground. He swerved only to have Jessica punch him in to face, sending him crashing into the table. Jessica’s fists shook, anger taking over her. Her wrists were cut from forcefully breaking her restraint apart and though the line was no longer visible, the blood that covered her palm was there. She could feel her blood boiling, IoSeph travelling its way inside, stronger and pulsing.

His head hit against the table and the articles on it toppled and shattered . The red drug fell onto the floor, staining it like blood. Simeon stared at his creation, spilt and gone. Anger took over him but before he could do anything, Jessica had come charging at him. Lifting him like a ragged doll, she smashed her fist against his face again and again, not once relenting to see the damage she had done.

With unbelievable strength, Jessica grabbed his collar and threw him halfway across the room. His body rammed against the wall, falling down limply only to be picked up again and pummeled to bits. His entire body was shattering.

“Jessica!” Tiffany screamed from above. “Stop it!”

Jessica was out of control. Her desire to hurt him was blinding her and her strength continued to grow. Simeon’s face was so bloodied up that one could hardly recognize it as a face. Tiffany knew what was wrong. IoSeph.

“Jessica!” she screamed helplessly. “You’re killing him!”

She didn’t hear. Jessica’s fist was dripping in red from his blood but it didn’t stop her. All she wanted to do right now was to bring hell to him. Jessica threw him over her head, his weight was nothing compared to what IoSeph was offering to her. He crashed head first to the center of the room, wheezing and gargling in his own blood.

Jessica stomped over, ignoring all of Tiffany’s cries, and grabbed the chains that he had used to restrain her. Wrapping it around his neck, she wanted to hear him scream, beg and have no one help him. Instead, he let out a choked laugh.

“You…” he gasped. “are a monster.”

Jessica jerked her head, something ringing inside that agreed to his words.

So be it.

“What the hell is happening to me?” Jessica grunted, one hand clutching her head but the other hand refused to let go of the chains around his neck. Her mind and body thought differently. She could hardly control herself as she pulled the chain tighter. She was becoming more and more like the people she had fought.

“Jessica! Wake up! You’re not like them!” Tiffany shouted at her, crying. “IoSeph does not control you! Jessica! Listen to me!”

Jessica’s mind wanted to explode from the pain that was erupting inside. She dropped on one knee, her eyes closed shut. Tiffany’s voice rung in her ear but another voice told her to kill the man in front of her. Animal. Beast. Monster. She was all of them.

“Jessica, please. You aren’t like them! You fight for justice, not to kill. You’re WYE team’s leader. You’re a trusted friend,” Tiffany cried to her, praying that she would listen. “You are loved by your friends, your father and you’re loved by me! Jessica, you don’t belong to IoSeph! You belong to me! You’re my Jessica!”

Her heart pounded against her, so much that it hurt but it was smacking her awake. Her body trembled and her hand slowly loosened on the chains. They fell to the floor, releasing the man held hostage. Simeon gasped for air, crawling away from Jessica desperately.

Jessica felt herself finally breathe. Tiffany’s voice echoed in her head, repeating words that told her she wasn’t a killer. She wanted to be the Jessica Tiffany described. She didn’t want to be another creation made by IoSeph. Jessica wanted to be hers.

“Jessica!”

She turned at her scream and saw Simeon crawling back to his gun. Instead of attacking Jessica, Simeon snatched the gun that had fallen and aimed at Tiffany once again. Jessica lunged forward to stop him but she had failed to realize it was only a distraction. The moment Jessica came near, Simeon spun and plunged the needle he had hidden in his pocket into her neck.

Jessica gasped in pain as the needle punctured her skin and into her veins. The syringe emptied as the drug entered her system. She dropped to her knees. Her mouth couldn’t close, wanting to scream but her voice wouldn’t come out. Her veins burned in a way that fired her whole body and they seemed to have twisted and knotted.

She felt as if she was in flames, unable to breathe and in searing heat. Nothing could release her from what was tormenting her right now. Jessica was experiencing a war that broke out inside. She was paralyzed inside out and she couldn’t fight it. Simeon’s drug felt like a corrosive chemical that ate her up, spreading everywhere. At the same time, IoSeph was mending the rips and tears that were just created. Jessica was merely the battlefield that suffered it all. Simeon was right. It was a race to see which one performed faster.

Jessica heard ringing in her ears. It sounded like her name called out repeatedly but she couldn’t be sure. The pain had blinded all her senses. The sound slowly faded in and out and then she started writhing uncontrollably.

Jessica’s head met ground and Jessica could feel no more of what was inside. Her eyes rolled and her breathing was constricted. Her vision was blurry and then a sudden bang could be heard. She saw a blurry silhouette drop to the floor and she could see him in front of her.

Her mouth parted slightly and moved as if saying something. Darkness fell upon them both and their conversation ended.

~~~~~~~~~

Yoona dared her aim to be accurate. From the floor above, she shot at the man who held the empty syringe in his hand. The bullet was fired and hit him in the chest. The man crashed to the floor, clutching the hole that leaked his blood. His eyes widened and then howled in anger, his hand turned into a fist as he slammed it against the floor. The pain from the shot eventually took over and he fainted.

Yoona swallowed slowly, lowering her gun down. There was nothing but silence. Down below there were only two people. The scientist who was responsible and someone she held very dear unmoving.

Her hand fell limply to her side, gun slipping from her grip. Jessica’s gun dropped to the ground, its job finished but it had fallen itself. Yoona pulled her gaze away to look into the room across from her.

The glass wall was broken and inside she saw a figure huddled against the wall. Even at this distance, Yoona could hear her sobs. A figure soon joined her as she rushed into the room and from across, Yoona recognized her to be Yuri.

Yuri stood at the door, frozen at the sight in front of her. Damian was lying motionless on the side, pieces of glass covered the ground and a girl hugged her legs closely to herself, burying her head in them. Yuri took careful steps towards her. The sound of glass breaking under her feet could not cover the sound coming from her.

Yuri bent down and placed a hand on Tiffany’s head, words failing her. She did not know how to comfort her for she could hardly find a reason to comfort herself. Yuri blinked back tears as she looked across to where Yoona was and their eyes met.

Yoona shut her eyes to stop her own tears from coming out but she failed to restrain them. Yoona took a deep breath to calm herself. They had won but to her she had failed. They had all failed.

Final Chapter

Yuri helped Tiffany to her feet as they hobbled down the stairs. Reinforcement had finally arrived to take care of everything else such as arresting Mr. Kwon, Simeon, Damian and whoever that was left. Tiffany’s arm was over Yuri’s shoulder as they limped towards the heart of the building.

Tiffany withdrew her arm and slumped onto the floor in front of Jessica. Fresh tears leaked out.

Yoona bounded into the scene, immediately finding Yuri and Tiffany. She rushed into Yuri’s arms and wanted to believe that the sight in front of her did not exist. Her mind screamed no but her tears dropped uncontrollably down.

Tiffany reached for Jessica’s cold hands, warming them with her own. She didn’t want to accept this. She would never accept that Jessica had fallen.

“You know what I told him…?”

Tiffany could not believe her ears. It was the softest whisper, so quiet and fragile. Tiffany wiped her tears with the back of her hand and prayed that it was not her eyes and ears that were tormenting her with their tricks. A weak lopsided smile formed on Jessica’s pale face. Jessica’s eyes were closed, too exhausted to open them but the smile was real.

“I told him that my dad beat him again,” she breathed out and her eyes slowly flickered open. She could finally see Tiffany again. “I also told him…I’m going to Japan.”

Tiffany cried harder, her grip tightening on Jessica’s hand.

“You idiot…” she sobbed, lifting Jessica’s hand to her face. Jessica’s hand was slowly regaining warmth and so was Tiffany’s heart. Jessica pushed herself up with her free hand and with her remaining strength sat up. Her body ached like mad but it was nothing that Jessica couldn’t ignore right now. She could ignore the whole world right now.

Tiffany’s head was tilted down, all her tears falling onto the floor and her hair hid her face from Jessica. Jessica shuffled closer, bending down to peek underneath the mat of hair. Tiffany’s teary eyes glared at her and she was pouting. Jessica’s hand cupped her chin, tilting her head back up and Jessica imitated her pout to make her laugh. As a result, Tiffany choked on her tears.

Jessica’s hand patted her head to calm her down and kissed her on the forehead. Jessica leaned Tiffany onto her shoulder and her cheek rested on Tiffany’s head.

“I’m sorry Tiffany,” Jessica said softly, “that I broke our promise but please know that no matter what, I love you. No matter where I am, I love you. Tiffany Hwang, I’m yours forever.”

~~~~~~~~~~~

The case of IoSeph has been closed. The perpetrators and participants are detained and are serving time in jail. Lee Soonkyu and Kim Jaejoong are convicted of participation but due to their assistance to the police force and special circumstances, their charges are lowered and are still currently on trial. Joseph Jung has been released from jail after serving for the initial creation of IoSeph. All remains and research on IoSeph have been exterminated and eliminated. Those affected by IoSeph have been remedied. IoSeph no longer exists.

~~~~~~~~~

A Year Later

“So…?”

“What so?”

“Oh come on, Jessica, you know. The two went to the washroom so spill already. This is what…the second time you guys went to Japan?”

“Yea…and what about it?”

Yuri banged her head to the table, exasperated at the idiotic expression Jessica had on. She had absolutely no idea.

“Okay, just say yes or no to my questions,” Yuri started, rolling up her sleeves to approach this matter in an elementary way. Jessica stared blankly at her.

“You went to Japan.”

“Yes.”

“You went with Tiffany again.”

Jessica raised a brow.

“Yes…”

“You guys stayed at a hotel.”

“Well duh,” Jessica said, stating the obvious.

“You guys shared a room.”

Yuri smirked at the immediate reaction. Jessica’s face turned red and if possible, her ears were redder.

“Yes…” she mumbled.

“One bed.”

“…”

“And…fill in the blank Jessica,” Yuri urged. Jessica blinked at her.

“What blank?”

Yuri’s hands reached out as if wanting to strangle her and then stopped herself midway. Her fingers curled in the air and she forced a smile.

“Do I have to spell it out for you?!?” Yuri hissed. Sighing like a aggravated mother, she took the napkin and pulled out a pen. She spelt the word and threw it at Jessica. Jessica looked down at the napkin and immediately crumpled it, stuffing it into her pocket, embarrassed.

“You shouldn’t WRITE it out!”

“Yea well, if you caught on earlier then I wouldn’t!” Yuri retorted and Jessica slumped. Yuri shook her head disapprovingly.

“Now answer my damn question already. Did you guys…”

Jessica stiffened and fiddled with her fingers, looking anywhere but at Yuri. Yuri’s mouth dropped open and had never been so exasperated in her life. Yuri’s hands slammed on the table as she stood up, startling everyone at the restaurant.

“Are you kidding me Jessica Jung?! You guys went on a friggin vacation together with no one else around, slept in the same damn room and you guys didn’t-“

Yuri couldn’t finish when Jessica forced her hand over her mouth. Her loud voice had carried through the entire restaurant and now others stared at them weirdly. Yuri sat back down when she finally calmed herself down.

“Calm down Yuri. This is just Jessica being an idiot. Nothing out of the ordinary. Calm down Yuri,” she muttered to herself but still shook her head.

“You seriously didn’t?”

Jessica gave the smallest of nods as if embarrassed to admit it.

“Oh my god Jessica. She’s Tiffany Mi Young Hwang for god sake. She cut her hair again and she looks hotter than ever. If I was with her-“

Yuri stopped herself because of an intense glare that could’ve burned a hole right through her.

“I meant,” she started, redeeming herself, “that she is extremely attractive and only a rock, the type that had never seen light in its entire pitiful life, could reject her. You have proven me wrong Jessica. You are worse than a rock. Enough said.”

Yuri gave up on her while Jessica looked slightly abashed. Jessica blinked and leaned closer for a whisper.

“You mean that I uh…should’ve done something?” she said so quietly and Yuri nodded.

“Well, she is your girlfriend isn’t she?” Yuri muttered. “I mean, Yoona and I-“

She couldn’t finish this sentence either. Jessica grabbed onto her collar and pulled her up from her chair.

“YOU DID WHAT TO HER?!” Jessica shouted and now the crowd was staring at them for a different reason. Her over protective self was back again and so was her violent self. Yuri raised her hands up, surrendering.

“Well if you must know, we didn’t go full out but we did kind of did something that night Yoona stayed while you guys left my house. That was our first. Then the hospital make out…but all the other naughty times you don’t need to know right? I mean, I have a reputation to keep and have been deprived for too long.”

Yuri grinned, purposely infuriating her but she didn’t expect Jessica to take it this seriously. Jessica really wanted to land a fist on that face.

She did.

~~~~~~~~~

“Er…Yuri asked me to ask you this. Did you guys...you know…when you were in Japan?” Yoona asked her and to Yoona’s surprise, Tiffany rolled her eyes.

“We are talking about Jessica Jung right?”

“Ah.”

Yoona understood immediately. Tiffany sighed as she looked at her reflection.

“Jessica…doesn’t get hints,” she said lamely and Yoona had to laugh. That was Jessica alright.

“Get her drunk,” Yoona suggested and Tiffany shook her head, staring at Yoona with disbelief.

“I don’t want her drunk during that time!” she exclaimed.

“Okay, then I’m out of ideas for anything legal,” Yoona said with a shrug. Together they walked out of the washroom and heard something coming from the restaurant.

“YOU DID WHAT TO HER?!”

Yoona and Tiffany hurried out the moment they recognized Jessica’s voice and just in time to see Jessica land a punch at Yuri. The two cringed, frozen at their spot.

“Umm…you think Yuri asked for that?” Tiffany asked Yoona.

“Yep, one way or another,” Yoona replied as if this is a regular occurrence. Things didn’t change all that much. Tiffany nodded in agreement. They looked at each other momentarily and they both nodded, understanding exactly what was on the other’s mind. Together, the two sneaked out the back door and exited the restaurant.

“We don’t know them.”

~~~~~~~~~~

Jessica’s head rolled on her shoulder as she examined the church. It was quite nice, the traditional church you’d find in those wedding scenes in movies. This one however, wasn’t in a movie. It was real.

It was going to start soon and Jessica tapped her watch impatiently. She had exactly one minute left or Jessica would deem her late. As if reading her mind, Tiffany slipped in through the large doors with a bright smile. Jessica turned and felt herself freeze. She was so beautiful. She only had on a simple dress but she literally shone. Tiffany found her seat beside Jessica and beamed excitedly at her. Jessica was still frozen.

“Oh my god, she looks so beautiful!” she squealed in her Cali accent. Funny. That was exactly how Jessica thought of her at the moment. Everyone soon seated and it finally started. Jessica smiled as the groom stood in front, slightly nervous but with the biggest grin she had ever see him wear.

He had went through a lot. The burnt skin under his tuxedo could never return to the way it was before but Onew was the happiest man alive. The doctor helped him as much as he could and Onew was up and running. Onew’s grin widened when the doors opened to let the bride in. Luna, along with her father, made their way to the front and Onew could no longer breathe. In her wedding dress, she looked absolutely stunning.

“Take care of her for me,” Luna’s father said as Luna’s hand met Onew’s.

“I promise I will.”

Her father retreated to her seat and watched proudly at his daughter and his new son-in-law. Onew and Luna said their vows and finished with the two words to seal their promise.

“I do.”

Tiffany squeezed her hand painfully tight in excitement. Jessica’s blood was not getting to her hand.

“Tiffany…” she gasped but Tiffany ignored her. She was too busy staring at the beautiful couple.

Only until the couple headed out of the church did Jessica felt relief. She shook her lifeless hand as she followed Tiffany out into the bright sunny outdoors. Even the weather agreed to this couple.

Jessica stood on the side with her arms crossed after the pictures were taken and the crowd cheered Luna on to throw the bouquet of flowers. Jessica didn’t believe in these things while Yuri, who was sporting the bruised eye from three days ago, simply didn’t bother.

“Bet Yoona’s going to catch it,” Yuri said confidently. “By height, she’s a lot taller than Tiffany.”

“Yea but judging by Tiffany’s excitement, Tiffany might just kick ass to get it,” Jessica mumbled, still shaking her limp hand.

“Yea well, you guys haven’t even done it yet…”

Jessica glared at her, her temper slightly rising.

“Haven’t you heard of marriage first?”

“In the medieval times maybe.”

“I just happen to be traditional alright?” Jessica snapped back . “I need her to know that I love her enough to dedicate my entire life to her before that happens!”

Yuri just grinned.

“And I’m just joking Jessica for god’s sake. I know you love her. I just like getting you mad that’s all,” Yuri said but then caught onto something. Yuri’s eyes widened and gave her a questioning look. Jessica looked back at her with a determined gaze, proving her suspicion correct. Yuri smiled and faced the front again, shaking her head approvingly.

Jessica punched her lightly on the shoulder at the comprehension and Jessica left her side to go somewhere else.

Just before Luna threw the bouquet, Jessica found Tiffany and pulled her away by the hand. Tiffany whined as Jessica dragged her away from the crowd.

“Hey, I was planning to catch that you know,” Tiffany complained. Jessica finally stopped and turned to face her.

“With Yoona, Sooyoung, Seohyun, Victoria, Sulli and whoever else that exceeds 163 cm here, you wouldn’t get it anyways,” Jessica said flatly and Tiffany made a face at her.

“Excuse me, who mastered the flying roundhouse kick?”

“Excuse me, are you planning to play soccer with the flowers?” Jessica jeered with her brow raised. For some reason, she was super annoyed at her determination to go back.

“I meant that I stood a chance,” Tiffany threw back, not understanding what started Jessica’s weird temper. “And I want to go back Jessica if you’re going to be sarcastic about it.”

Tiffany turned to walk away but was caught at the wrist. Tiffany was prepared to make another disgruntled face at Jessica when she turned to find something that made her heart jump.

Jessica couldn’t look her in the eye. She pretended to be nonchalant about it when she took out the small box and opened it. Jessica held it out for Tiffany to see, her other hand swinging nervously beside her. Even though she heard a gasp escape from Tiffany, Jessica still looked the other way, too embarrassed and shy. As a result, she looked down on the ground, her weight shifted to one leg while the other tapped the ground nervously.

“You don’t need the stupid flowers alright?” she grumbled to the ground. Tiffany’s mouth could not close at the sight of the beautiful diamond ring. Her heart fluttered just like it did the first time she met Jessica.

Suddenly, Jessica felt arms wrap around her waist as Tiffany gave her a quick hug. She was laughing again, Tickle Me Elmo style again, and her eyes turned into crescents. Jessica smiled at the sight of Tiffany and her overexcited self. Tiffany was jumping like a little kid, running around her in circles to express her happiness.

“Hold still!” Jessica called after her and took Tiffany’s hand into her own. Jessica pulled her in and raised her left hand. Jessica put the ring on her finger and found that it fit perfectly.

“I’m taking your ridiculous jumps as a yes,” she shouted over her squeals and Tiffany nodded quickly, still laughing. Jessica flicked her on the forehead playfully and Tiffany immediately stopped laughing.

“Owww…” Tiffany complained and the moment she pouted, Jessica leaned in to kiss her. Tiffany smiled in between kisses and she closed her eyes to enjoy every flutter that Jessica never failed to make her feel. Jessica’s hand wrapped around the soft silk that belonged to her dress, pulling her closer. Tiffany’s hand cupped her face and Jessica felt shivers all over again. When they parted, Jessica looked deeply into her eyes.

“Do you, Tiffany Miyoung Hwang, dare to stay with dumber than a rock Jessica Sooyeon Jung and let her love you for the rest of her life?” she asked her and watched Tiffany split into a big smile.

“I do.”

END

Bonus One!

Fluff galore XD

Sneaking out of her room, Tiffany tiptoed over to Jessica’s. Knocking, she let herself in.

“Hi?” Tiffany said to Jessica who was leaning on her bed, reading a book with the lamp turned on. Jessica looked up in surprise.

“I didn’t expect you to be up so late” Jessica exclaimed, putting her book down. “Or I would’ve come bother you ages ago!”

Tiffany put a finger up to her lips, telling Jessica to be quiet.

“Well, I’m not supposed to be up if that’s what you’re saying but the nurse is slacking off somewhere.”

Jessica welcomed her by creating some space for her to sit on her bed. Her fingers reached for the bandages wrapped around Tiffany’s head.

“Are you alright?” Jessica asked worriedly and Tiffany nodded.

“It’s just for looks,” Tiffany laughed, pointing to her bandages. “Makes me look like a hero.”

Jessica smiled.

“You saved me didn’t you?”

“Not really since you got Simeon’s drug injected in you.”

“No, I meant before that,” Jessica said, slowly leading Tiffany to remember the most memorable line. “Or maybe it was just my ears playing tricks. I thought someone said I’m her Jessica.”

Tiffany blushed, looking awkwardly away.

“I just blurted out random stuff back then,” she mumbled. “It’s not like-“

Jessica’s smiling face suddenly turned hostile. (refer to Hello Baby when Jessica asked Tiffany if she liked Kyungsan XD)

“You didn’t mean it?”

“I meant it!” Tiffany answered a bit too loudly and quickly. Tiffany gave herself a mental kick for reacting like this. Now Jessica was going to make fun of her.

“Okay then,” Jessica replied, returning to her book.

Tiffany stared. How come this tone resembled the ‘okay’ she gave to Hara ages ago?

“Okay? Just okay?!” Tiffany blurted out. “Nothing else?”

Jessica stared at her in pure silence. Tiffany simply gaped at her, speechless.

“There’s one thing,” Jessica finally spoke. Tiffany waited for what she had to say. If it was something like ‘I’m hungry’, Tiffany was going to kill her.

“Can you stay with me tonight?” Jessica asked, showing a hint of shyness. Okay fine, Tiffany would accept that. Tiffany wanted to hug the softer than a teddy bear Jessica right now. She looked so vulnerable and cute with that small smile.

“There’s always a new side to you,” Tiffany whispered to herself, smiling. Tiffany kicked off her slippers as she lay down beside Jessica. Jessica pulled the covers over her shoulders and held her close beside her. Jessica smiled again in happiness and Tiffany gave her a swift kiss before snuggling closer.

“When you said that you were going to be mine forever-“

“I meant it,” Jessica interrupted. Though that wasn’t her question, Tiffany felt warm from those words.

“I love you Jess,” Tiffany whispered, resting her head on Jessica’s chest. Jessica kissed the top of her head in reply.

“Me too.”

~~~~~~~~

“I can’t believe we got lost in a hospital! It’s a rectangle for god’s sake!” Hyoyeon exclaimed. “I should’ve never let you be our guide!”

“I looked at the floor plan though!” Sooyoung defended. “I really thought it was the other way.”

“That’s the cafeteria Sooyoung,” Hyoyeon sighed and Sooyoung closed her mouth immediately.

“Oh yea.”

“Anyways, now that I know where we’re going, I got it all planned out. In sequence to the rooms, Jessica, Yuri, Tiffany and then Onew alright?”

“Whatever,” Sooyoung grumbled, still slightly abashed at her mistake. Seohyun was too busy watching all the Keroro episodes she missed on her cell to care. Following with a fruit basket in hand, Seohyun barely knew where she was heading without Sooyoung guiding her with her hands on her shoulders.

“Here we go,” Hyoyeon said, happy that they had finally found the correct room. They knocked but had no response. Opening the door, they let themselves in.

“Ah…”

“Well, guess we don’t need to check up on Tiffany,” Hyoyeon stated simply at the sight of Jessica and Tiffany sleeping. She smiled like a mother watching her kids graduate from university.

“Oh man, JeTi is finally together,” Hyoyeon sniffed. “And we know how hard it is for Jessica. Awww, they look so cozy together.”

Hyoyeon turned, hoping to find agreement from either of the two. Seohyun was in the corner, watching her show while Sooyoung was nowhere to be found behind her. Turning back around, Hyoyeon saw Sooyoung hovering over the two, cell phone in hand.

“What are you doing?” Hyoyeon hissed quietly while Sooyoung just shushed her with a finger.

“What does it look like?” Sooyoung whispered back. “I’m taking pictures! If Jessica is ever going to blow up on us again I can use this to blackmail her!”

Snap. Snap. Snap. Sooyoung took a gazillion to ensure her now promising future.

“This is for my fridge. This is for my life supply of buffets. This is for my-“

Hyoyeon dragged her out, aggravated at how such a person could exist. Seohyun followed them from behind, eyes glued down.

Waiting for them to leave, Tiffany slowly opened her eyes. She woke up because of Sooyoung’s camera sounds but Jessica was still fast asleep. Tiffany beamed at her sleeping girlfriend. Pulling up the covers again to cover Jessica’s shoulders, Tiffany leaned in closer. Tiffany let her lips meet Jessica’s and let it stay for a little longer than intended. Pulling back, Tiffany smiled. She returned the favour.

“That was for sneaking a kiss on me while I was sleeping,” Tiffany whispered to her. Jessica stirred slightly but fell right back to sleep. Tiffany snuggled close again and closed her eyes. She would let herself pretend to sleep just to stay by Jessica a bit longer. Anything to be by her side.

As if hearing her inner thoughts, the arm around Tiffany hugged her tighter. A small smile was revealed over Tiffany’s head. Anything.

~~~~~~~~~

While they received news on Tiffany and Jessica being alright, they had yet to hear anything from Yuri. Unlike Jessica, she had no IoSeph as back up.

Yoona was pacing left and right. Wasn’t Yuri just walking fine and helping Tiffany down? But then right after Jessica woke up, Yuri literally tumbled, falling to the ground. It was revealed later on that she after taking so many hits from those unnatural fighters, it was a mixture of exhaustion as well as injuries that went deeper than skin.

It has already been a few days. The doctors said Yuri would need another check up by today and Yoona was waiting for her as well as the result. Yoona bit her lip, stomping on the floor in frustration. Why were the doctors taking so long? As if they heard her, the doctors exited Yuri’s room, clipboard in hand. Yoona didn’t know what to make out of their expressions as they walked past.

Yoona couldn’t wait any longer. Turning the knob she let herself in only to find Yuri half dressed. Yoona couldn’t control herself. She gawked.

“Ya!” Yuri yelled in surprise, trying to get herself unstuck in her shirt with difficulty. The more she struggled, the worse it got. Darn her arms for being so stiff and slow. Her reflexes were worse than a snail’s now from all the aching.

“I…um …should…I …go…out?” Yoona mumbled, averting her gaze though was oddly tempted to not. Yuri finally got herself unstuck, throwing it on quickly and buttoning in the speed of light. It was odd for Yuri to be shy about her body. Honestly, even Yuri thought this might be her first but right now, she wasn’t feeling overly proud of it.

“I thought you guys are going to visit later today?” Yuri mumbled and Yoona nodded.

“Yes, um…that was the plan but I came earlier,” Yoona replied quietly before looking up again. Yoona stifled a smile. In her haste, Yuri had mismatched the buttons and their holes, leaving her shirt lopsided.

Yoona smiled as she walked up to Yuri.

“What are you doing?” Yuri stuttered when Yoona’s fingers met her shirt. She was less than arm’s length away.

“You idiot, you got it wrong,” Yoona scolded lightly, but secretly grinning inside. She loved the fact that Yuri was feeling vulnerable.

“You probably don’t-“ Yuri started, lifting her own hands to stop her but too late.

Yoona stopped unbuttoning, hands frozen at the sight. Yuri was bruised so badly that her skin was literally purple. Yoona had seen the swollen lip and eye back then but this…this truly hurt her.

Yoona’s gaze flickered up meeting Yuri’s eyes and asked silently for permission. Carefully, her fingertips touched her darkened skin on her chest and Yuri flinched from the electricity sent from her touch.

“Did I hurt you?” Yoona asked, startled by her reaction but Yuri shook her head.

“No,” she replied in merely a whisper but Yoona could hear it loud and clear. Her fingers grazed what seemed to be three cuts from claws of an animal on her neck. It was healing but slowly. Yoona didn’t dare think what would have happened if these cuts were any deeper.

Her hands closed into fists on Yuri’s top, pulling her in slowly and Yoona kissed where the cuts were. Yuri’s eyes widened, frozen from the shivers Yoona had just sent into her. Yoona was careful not to hurt her as she planted soft kisses on her bruises on her neck and widening the open for her to kiss her shoulders.

Yoona suddenly felt a hand on her cheek and pulling away she looked at Yuri with uncertainty.

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” Yuri said with a smile. “Just that I love you more than words could describe. Forgive me for ever hurting you before. I’d beg but I can’t really bend my legs right now.”

Yoona felt soft lips against hers. Yuri’s hand caressed her cheek, kissing her gently. This time, she wanted to show more than desire. Yuri wanted to show love.

She had never tasted softer lips, never felt a softer touch. Yoona pulled back slightly, arms still around her neck. Yuri gave her a questioning look.

“Aww, am I too ugly for you now? I promise it’ll get better and I’ll be hot again,” Yuri joked and Yoona gave her a quick peck on the those teasing lips.

“I just never thought you could kiss this way,” Yoona told her, blushing. “You tend to have a stronger side.”

“If you mean last time when I went to get you, it was because I thought I wouldn’t be able to see you again so I-“ Yuri started and Yoona shook her head, interrupting her. Yuri was now fully confused.

“Eh?”

Yoona bit her lip shyly.

“The other time…”

It finally hit.

“You told me nothing happened!” Yuri exclaimed, taken aback. “I mean, yes I was drunk but when I woke I was still-“

“I er…clothed you again,” mumbled a voice quieter than the squeak of a mouse. Yuri’s mouth dropped open, slapping a hand onto her forehead.

“And I forgot that?!?”

Yoona just stared. This really wasn’t the reaction she was expecting.

“You don’t sound overly shocked,” Yoona stated flatly and Yuri’s face split into a smile.

“I’m actually feeling more regret than shock at the moment,” Yuri grinned. “But I do get a second chance right? I’m so much better sober.”

Yoona raised a brow.

“Wow, you really are dirty. Jessica is right about you.”

“Oh well, it’s my charm,” Yuri shrugged. “But seriously, what she say?”

“The second day after I started work, Jessica told me to always be wary of you,” Yoona explained with a laugh. “Like, wear more when I’m with you. Minimum arms length distance. Didn’t you realize that for the first week I was wearing turtlenecks before I realized not to take Jessica seriously?”

Yuri scratched her head and then snapped her fingers.

“Oh yea, you did. Black first, then striped, then an interesting blue and then white,” Yuri recited from the top of her head. “Have to say you look best in the white one but of course, I liked everything else you wore more that didn’t choke your neck.”

Yoona smiled sweetly at how easily she repeated what she wore. Even she didn’t remember. She blushed even more when she realized Yuri had taken notice of her since the day she joined WYE team.

“Gasp! Daydreaming Yoona is turning red,” Yuri teased before asking. “Am I part of that daydream?”

Yoona punched her lightly but Yuri groaned in pain. Yoona’s eyes widened in horror.

“Ow, ow, ow, ow,ow,” Yuri chanted as her bruise stung.

“I’m so sorry!” Yoona squealed, fretting over nothing as Yuri revealed a mischievous grin. Yuri trapped her in her arms and lips clashed again, except Yuri was taking the initiative now.

Passionate and heated kisses were shared between the two as Yuri took her in closer than ever. Yoona’s fingers tangled with her hair and Yuri’s hand hooked on her neck. Her patient top dropped to the floor, once again revealing those bruises but Yoona could only feel burning skin under her hands, smooth and tempting.

A knock interrupted them and without warning, the door flung open. Yuri and Yoona froze in place, staring shocked at the incomers. Thank god Yuri was hidden behind Yoona.

Sooyoung and Hyoyeon had their brow raised. Seohyun on the other hand was watching something on her cell, ears plugged in. Without taking her eyes off the Keroro playing screen, she placed the fruit basket down.

“We walked into another pair…” Sooyoung muttered as she rested her head on Hyoyeon’s shoulder. “Twice a day…just our luck.”

“What a waste of worrying time,” Hyoyeon sighed as she dragged Seohyun back out.”At least the first one made us go awwww. This is just graphic.”

“Do you think we should visit Onew and Luna? I mean…three times a day is too much for me to handle.”

“Tch, you don’t have to worry. Luna has more brains than all four of them added together. She would have the decency to lock the door,” Hyoyeon muttered back and Sooyoung nodded in agreement.

“Bye Yuri unnie! Bye Yoona unnie!” Seohyun said cheerfully one last time before being pulled out. Yuri and Yoona blinked in total shock.

“Uh…I don’t mind tarnishing Sooyoung and Hyoyeon’s already corrupted minds but I thought Seohyun was totally absorbed in her screen,” Yuri started slowly.

“But she knew I was here…”

...

Bonus Two

YoonYul ^^ (Don't worry, I finished a JeTi bias bonus)

“Our new house,” Yuri grinned as she flung the door open. Yoona raised a brow.

“Our?”

“I-I mean…my…my new house,” Yuri stuttered, trying to brush it off as nothing. Yuri noticed how unfazed Yoona was and that bothered her oddly. Okay not oddly, Yuri felt downright sad but she was not going to show it. Free from her father’s reign, her first decision was to get out of the house he owned and went off to find her own. She had always wanted to live in a condo with a great view. That had been her plan and she went forward with it immediately. No longer needing to call herself a billionaire’s daughter, she was simply Kwon Yuri who wanted to make a living for herself and…

“Nice view,” Yoona commented, staring out into the city and then plopped herself down on the couch. Yuri nodded, sliding her hands into her jean pockets with a shrug.

“I’m glad you like it,” Yuri said simply. “You want a tour?”

Yoona smiled and got up, clapping her hands together as she did. Honestly, there wasn’t much of a need for a tour, simple as her new home was but Yuri was just going to drag this on longer. Purposely finding an excuse to take Yoona up here by herself, Yuri was hoping she’d get more than a ‘nice view’. She was wanting approval after all she had done to the house…or tried to do to make it look perfect.

“The kitchen is here,” Yuri pointed out, stating the obvious. “Dining room.”

Yuri looked at Yoona hopefully, wondering if the dining table had sparked something. Actually, she was hoping that the couple couch did too. One random day a long time ago, they were helping Jessica choose furniture for her new house and while Jessica was busy actually looking for furniture, Yoona and Yuri had just sat lazily on the couch watching Jessica scramble.

“Jessica, choose that table,” Yoona said, pointing at the circular glass table across from them. “It’ll fit nicely in your house.”

“Really?” Jessica paused, pondering. “I actually was thinking of a rectangular one…it’ll fit my dining room better and glass doesn’t quite match.”

Yoona’s mouth turned into a ‘O’.

“I think it looks nice,” she finished quietly.

“Jessica, why do you have to choose today to shop?” Yuri yawned, extremely tired. “We all just did all nighters for three days in a row and Yoona doesn’t even live close by.”

“It’s alright,” Yoona said hastily but couldn’t stifle her yawn. Jessica looked at both of them apologetically.

“I’m really sorry but today’s the last day the furniture goes on sale. I’ll finish this quickly. Promise.”

“You’re as cheap as ever,” Yuri sighed, leaning on the couch exhausted.

“Well, I can’t help it. Not rich,” Jessica muttered, already walking away to find another table.

“I’ll pay you to let us go to sleep!” Yuri called after her but didn’t catch a response. “Seriously, only we put up with-“

Yuri froze when Yoona leaned onto her shoulder, falling asleep. Yuri blinked nervously, hoping Jessica was nowhere near. If Jessica saw this, she’d think Yuri was taking advantage. No, Yuri simply took her hand into her own. Yuri looked down, a small smile drawing on her face before she let her hand go again.

Keeping to herself, Yuri had her own hands together on her lap despite Yoona’s being so close. Yuri simply let her sleep, pretending for one second that there was only the two of them.

“I’m done!” Jessica announced moments later. “I placed my order. Let’s go.”

Yoona jolted awake and smiled at Jessica. Yuri watched Yoona jump out of her seat and Yuri soon followed. The trio let the department store with Yuri lagging slightly behind.

Yuri put her hand on her head, slightly dumbfounded. It wasn’t supposed to be a happy memory but it stayed.

“Is this your room?” Yoona’s voice suddenly breaking through.

“Huh? Oh um yea,” Yuri answered, realizing she had stopped completely in the kitchen and Yoona left her to explore some more.

“Oh, I like the curtains,” Yoona commented, playing with it with a smile. Yuri leaned on the door , relaxed and arms crossed. All she could say was natural light suit Yoona best for she looked absolutely stunning.

Yuri cast her gaze downwards. She was still disappointed at the lack of response. She’d thought that it was more or less official now. Even JeTi went to Japan...Yuri assumed it was a semi honeymoon. Yuri loved her and well, she was pretty confident that Yoona felt the same but why was there suddenly doubt? Stupid insecure Yuri, she thought to herself. She ran into a burning building for her, Yuri pouted as she kicked thin air, Yoona had to at least understand that. That was her life she willingly thrown into pits of fire.

“Yoona,” Yuri started slowly and Yoona turned.

“Hmm?” Yoona answered.

“I bought this place…”

Yoona looked at her curiously, edging closer. She was definitely not used to hesitant Yuri.

“For…myself and…”

Yuri shook her head, ending it there. Her remaining pride didn’t want to sound too stupid. Was she going too fast? Sure, it hadn’t been that long since she finally got out of the hospital and she supposed those lonely hours in there while Yoona was at work had gotten her missing Yoona so much that she’d thought of this. Idiot!

“Let’s go eat,” Yuri suggested, motioning Yoona to follow.

“You didn’t finish your sentence!” Yoona called after her, chasing her down. Yoona tugged on her sleeve and Yuri turned back, surprised.

“Huh?”

Now Yoona looked embarrassed.

“Just…finish your sentence,” Yoona mumbled, now tugging on her fingers. Yuri secretly smiled inside at how childish Yoona had become.

“What sentence?” Yuri said, feigning cluelessness. “Let’s go eat?”

“No…not that,” Yoona said even quieter and Yuri waited patiently for her give in. So Yuri had been played but not any longer. Yoona pointed at the table and then at the couch with an unwillingly given grunt. Yuri kept her poker face on.

“Yea, I like the furniture too,” Yuri threw out casually and watched Yoona erupt.

“Yuri, you stupid stupid stupid,” Yoona fumed, throwing Yuri’s arm away and stomped towards the door. Yuri had to laugh, grabbing hold of her wrist before Yoona could go any further. With much force, Yuri dragged her back and into her tight embrace. Yoona tried to break free but Yuri kept her locked in her grasp.

“For myself and for you,” Yuri finally declared and felt Yoona stop struggling in her arms. “I’ve bought this place so that if you ever need a place to go, you can come here and maybe if I beg enough, you will stay here…”

Yuri placed her hands on Yoona’s shoulders and pulled away.

“With me,” Yuri finished softly, wanting to make sure that Yoona understood that she would always welcome her, always want her.

Yoona paused, heart beating a bit too fast as she looked into Yuri’s eyes. No joke, no mischievous glint that Yuri usually carried with her twenty-four seven, just plain serious. Since it wasn’t too often that people saw this from Yuri, it meant a lot.

“I want you to live here with me so I can stop missing you every night, stop wondering if you got home safe and stop guessing whether or not you watch porn” Yuri repeated after the much too long of a pause. Yoona slowly lifted her hands and wrapped them around Yuri’s waist, burying herself once again in her warmth.

“I want to stay with you,” she finally answered in a whisper. “I'll be safe as long as I'm with you. You don't need to guess because I don't watch porn and you’re not allowed to stop missing me.”

Yuri split into a huge smile over her shoulder and returned the hug. Pulling back again first, Yuri smiled at Yoona and had her return it.

“I love you Yoona,” Yuri told her again. “Do you love me?”

Yoona answered with a peck on the lips. Yuri couldn’t simply let that pass. Yuri’s hand hooked tenderly on the back of her neck, pulling her in once again for something longer and deeper. Yoona’s eyes fluttered shut as Yuri’s nose grazed her own and lips connected.

She had turned so gentle, tender and careful with her touch and kisses. It made Yoona feel so delicate in her arms, never wanting to part. Still, feeling precious was one thing. Wanting her was another.

Yoona sent her arms over her shoulders, hands running through Yuri’s hair as she demanded for more. Clearly, Yoona hated Yuri’s hours in the hospital just as much as she did. The difference between passionately and hungrily didn’t seem to matter anymore as they kissed feverishly, Yuri’s back somehow meeting wall and Yoona, lost in the moment, bit down on her bottom lip. When they finally took a breather, Yuri could only be awestruck by Yoona’s actions.

“You’ve changed,” Yuri commented with a lopsided grin and saw Yoona blush, reddening her face even more.

“You changed too,” Yoona replied shyly as she pondered carefully on her next words. “You’re so much less…”

“We’ll find a balance,” Yuri said, saving her from explaining. Yuri took her hand and led her to the couch. Yuri sat down first, having Yoona sit on her lap. Yuri’s eyes flickered from her delicate face onto her own hand on Yoona’s waist.

“Somehow, I still think that this is a miracle,” Yuri admitted and Yoona lifted her hand to caress her cheek.

“No longer,” Yoona answered softly and Yuri was flushed with happiness. As if magnetically drawn or simply meant to be, their lips met again, claiming the other as their own. Yoona felt her weight shift and assisted by Yuri, she was lowered carefully down so that her back met the softness of the couch. Today, it was just them two.

“I love your house,” Yoona said mischievously in between kisses. Yuri smiled.

“Our house,” Yuri corrected. “Only for us.”

Unexpectedly the doorbell rang and Yuri groaned.

“Except when Hyoyeon and Sooyoung want to party crash. I told them not to come without calling me…”

Yuri reluctantly lifted herself up but Yoona refused to release Yuri from her grip.

“You think we can ignore them just once?” Yoona asked hopefully. Yuri broke into a grin.

“You’ve definitely changed for the better,” Yuri chuckled and as ordered, she stayed. And Sooyoung and Hyoyeon waited, party bags in hand, totally and completely ignored.