Femme Fatale

Chapter 23: To Like or Not to Like

Seaof dropped me off at the train station where Hammond and Suho are already waiting for me to arrive. As expected Suho without doing anything at all got everyone’s attention with his visual and Hammond looks like his bodyguard on his side.

“So, it’s true, Prof. Godeth is staying at your place this weekend.” Hammond crossing his arms the moment he saw me walking towards their position

“Yup, Don went to the capital for his family gathering so he’s alone in their dorm that’s why he came along with Papa Justin yesterday.”

“Speaking of capital.” Hammond clearing his throat and turn to look at Suho beside him “His cousin fled last night to be on the show.”

“Show??? What show?? What are you talking about?” trying to figure out what’s happening

“Sehan went to Seoul to be part of the Future Wife Show, she called me last night after she watched it on TV that she’ll push her luck, I never expect that she’ll do it right away.” Suho brushed his hair with his hand that make everyone fall for his charms more

“Oh my God! He is so handsome!!” people chattering around us, praising his good looks

“Wait … what??” even I got mesmerized that I barely catch up what he’s saying

“We’re going to Seoul to pick Sehan.” Suho looking at me in puzzled “We’ll be back here immediately so there’s nothing to worry about.”

“We??! Why we?!!” looking at both of them “You didn’t tell me that we’re going to Seoul today, I thought we’re just hanging around the area.”

“Suho already bought the plane tickets to Seoul, and because it’s urgent and a lot of girls got crazy because of that show only first-class seats are available, he spent a fortune for us, are you going to waste it??” Hammond making me feel guilty

“Why did you buy tickets without confirming if I go or not?!!” frowning at Suho while clenching my fists “Gosh, this is too much of a surprise trip!”

“It’s alright if you don’t want to come, besides it’s my own mission to bring Sehan back home, sorry if I haven’t told you earlier.” Suho touching his face while being apologetic towards me that makes the crowd louder with their expressions at his handsomeness

“Ugh!” I was mad at him but now I can’t help myself to smile at his appeal “How can I say no if you look like a cute cat in front of me??!” muttering to myself “Fine! I’m coming, but we should go back before late night.”

“Really?!!” Suho’s face shining brightly as if he’s going to blind everyone with his charms “Thank you, Nene!” embrace me suddenly

“!!!” my heart is beating faster and louder like it’s going to explode anytime soon

“Hey, I’m still here!” Hammond break the moment “Can you two be sensible about my existence??!”

“Sorry, I just got too excited.” Suho pulled away and turned around like a shy boy “The train is coming.”

“You’re all red now, Nene.” Hammond smiling at me “So you’re a girl after all.”

“What do you mean by that?!” grab his arm and twist it “I’m a girl since birth.”

“Aw … aww … a lady shouldn’t do this to a man! … please, let go … awww!” Hammond twisting in pain

“Hm!” let go of his arm “Buy me a snack later in the plane.” fall in line upon entering the train “I’ll choose the most expensive, just so you know.”

“You’re such a bully!” Hammond standing right behind me “I don’t know what others see in you, you’re manlier than a real man.”

There’s no available seat so we all have to stand up and maintain our balance until we arrive to our destination. Hammond secured my space at the corner while Suho stand in front of me, though I think he should be the one being protected than me. Most of the girls gather around us and continuously glancing at Suho that they didn’t even care if they’re being obvious or not.

“Shall we take a cab to the airport?” I feel like these girls will follow us if we take another public transport “Let’s go, you first.” taking the stairs up

The boys just followed my lead without a word because of their exhaustion from being watched for 18 minutes straight. Well Hammond got the looks too but he’s being outshined by Suho’s ethereal look. Hammond took the passenger seat while me and Suho sit at the back seat. The moment we arrived at the airport some people even mistook Suho as Poseidon Nevaeh because they really look alike at first glance.

“I thought we’re going to miss the flight because of those people.” Hammond panting after running from the girls chasing after us because of Suho

“This is my first time getting chased like that.” Suho also catching his breath “Are you alright, Nene?” looking at me worriedly

“I’m fine.” walking peacefully towards the plane “I hope it’ll be different once we arrived at Seoul later.” I’m glad I’m doing exercise every day

When we arrived at the airport in Seoul, the same thing happened when we departed from Yeongdo-gu. The only difference is the real Poseidon Nevaeh is standing right in front of me and smiling like we never seen each other for so long.

“Hello.” Poseidon smiling brightly at me “Welcome to Seoul! Did you miss me?” arms wide open as if he’s asking a hug from me

“Tch. What are you doing??!” looking at him indifferently “Are we that close to hug each other?”

“Handsome-brother!” girl running from behind and throw herself to Poseidon

“Huh?!!” realized that I’m completely mistaken “This is so embarrassing!” about to walk away and disappear from Poseidon’s range

“Puth??!” Prof. Martin called me that gets Poseidon attention “What a coincidence? What are you doing here??”

“Ah … Hahaha … Prof. Martin.” failed to runaway “I-I’m here with Kim Suho-sunbae and Swanneli.” pointing at the two coming together after diversion

“Swanneli. Kim Suho.” Prof. Martin called the attention of the two

“Nene!” Poseidon called out to me while carrying Prof. Martin’s daughter in his arms

“!!!” turning around to face him (He’s not going to tease me because of my demeanor earlier, right??) “Don.”

“You still remember the name of this princess?” referring to the child he’s carrying

“Of course, I still remember Johanne.” walking towards them “Hello, sweetie.” touching her curly hair

“Nene-unnie.” Johanne giving me a hug too as Poseidon pass her weight to me “Are you here to see handsome-brother too?”

“Eh? Hahaha, you’re still calling Don as handsome-brother huh?” putting her down to the ground and squat to her level “You shouldn’t call him that.”

“Why? He’s handsome that’s why he’s handsome-brother.” Johanne doesn’t have an intention to listen

“But you’re calling your own brother just Tony.” still trying to persuade her not to flatter Poseidon too much

“That’s his name Tony, and he’s not handsome like handsome-brother.” Johanne crossing her arms and look away “Is that attractive-brother??”

“You really have a knack on naming people that catch your attention huh?” watching Johanne run towards Suho

“You’re here with Suho and Hammond.” Poseidon talking to me “Are you guys here for a weekend getaway?”

“We’re here for his cousin.” pointing at Suho “She wants to join your show that’s why she fled last night from home to get here.” noticed 8 men within his parameter “Speaking of that show, you’re the reason these girls are migrating from other parts of the country to the capital.”

“That’s why I’m being guarded since last night.” sighing heavily “Why? What is it??” walk towards Johanne who’s gesturing to come to her

“That kid, she’s calling Suho as attractive-brother but she’s calling me almond-brother.” Hammond complaining at me

“Well your name sounds like almond, now that you mentioned it, you haven’t treated me yet for a snack, you think I forgot, huh?!!” hands on my waists

“Hey, I’m the one who’s exhausted from running, you should be the one treating me.” placing his arm on my shoulders as we walk away

“Are you guys ditching me now??!” Suho appeared beside me “Prof. Nevaeh wants to give us a ride, I think it’ll be more convenient for us if we accept his offer, what do you guys think?” his eyes pleading us to agree

“I’m fine with it.” Hammond agreed immediately “Let’s get your snack at the broadcasting station later.”

“As long as you’re buying then I’m in.” turning around to join Poseidon and the others

Talking about attention-seeker, Poseidon got us to his limousine and everyone thought that Suho was a celebrity when he got off first from the car. They even thought that I’m his personal assistant and Hammond as his manager. Poseidon gave his phone number at home in case we need assistance from him, since we’re not familiar with the place before he left with Prof. Martin’s family.

Because Suho is look alike Poseidon and people saw us coming out from a limousine, they all thought that he was him. While everyone can be deceived by his looks, we used the opportunity to confirm Sehan’s whereabout.

“She passed the screening so she’s not going to back out, I’ll wait for her until it’s over, sorry for causing you guys trouble today.” Suho bows

“We’re already here in the capital, besides I don’t think it’ll end soon, why don’t we have something to eat first??” patting his shoulder “We didn’t have lunch yet, aren’t you guys hungry??” rubbing my belly

“I’m here to meet your cousin I won’t go until I get to see and talk to her.” Hammond nodded “But for now, let’s eat first, I’m starving.”

“Then let me treat you guys for lunch as my token of appreciation for accompanying me all the way here.” Suho said enthusiastically

“Don’t regret it later, Nene eats a lot specially when she has a late meal.” Hammond patting my head

“Is it, Hammond?” glaring at him with a murderous intent “Do I really eat a lot??”

“I’m actually talking about myself.” Hammond taking back his words “Let’s find a restaurant now.” walking off first

“I hope I can be as close as him to you.” Suho said with a bit smile on his face

“You’re good as you are now, but if you want me to treat you like my brother too then it’s fine with me.” exchanging glances with him

“I don’t think I like to be your brother, but you can rely on me all the time.” looking straight to my eyes

“Hey guys, shall we have western food??” Hammond pointing at the restaurant ahead

“You want to eat there?” Suho waiting for my response before he agrees to Hammond

“I’m fine as long as I can eat delicious meals.” nodded at him

Kim Suho, his family may not be as wealthy as the Nevaeh or the Godeth, but he is known as a rich man because he always buys delicious food for his friends no matter how expensive the cost he may incurred. The reason girls at the campus are all over him aside from his good looks and sexy brain.

“Thank you for the treat but this one is on Hammond; I want Blackberry Cabernet Sorbet.” giving my order at the waiter who’s asking for dessert

“You really ordered the most expensive one, huh?” Hammond smiling at me “How about you Suho-sunbae, anything you want to add up?”

“I’ll have Fruit ice for dessert, thank you Hammond.” Suho patting Hammond’s shoulder

“Next to the Sorbet, huh?” Hammond nodding as he chuckles “Then I’ll have Pudding, that’s all, thank you.”

“Please separate the receipt of the desserts, this guy is paying for our last order, thanks.” reminding the waiter before he leaves our table

“Noted, ma’am.” waiter left with a smile on his face while shaking his head

“You have to pay her with food when she does something for you.” Hammond speaking with Suho

“I can hear you; you know.” glaring at Hammond “Do you really have to tell Suho such unnecessary information about me??”

“I don’t think that’s unnecessary; I want to know everything even these little things about you.” Suho drinking his water

“See, Suho-sunbae is different from those boys who confessed their love to you before.” Hammond building up Suho’s image for me

“Will you stop it?” trying to calm myself down “You’re embarrassing me.” looking away to conceal my feelings

After we had our late lunch and early dinner at the restaurant, we roamed around the area until evening. We waited for another hour in the broadcasting station to pick up Sehan who had to come back for another round next week.

“Congratulations!” cheering Sehan with a toast “I’ll wait for your episode to be aired on TV.”

“Thank you for coming all the way here to support me!” Sehan smiling brightly at us that makes Hammond more anxious because of the show she participated in “I don’t know if I could make it to the finals but I really hope I could be with Poseidon Nevaeh even just for a day.”

“It’s not that great to be with him specially during his class, you’ll regret to be one of his students.” Hammond sulking while drinking soju

“I know about that rumor, he’s the most hated professor of all the students because of his way of teaching and his hellish exams.” Sehan said

“That’s not rumor, it’s actually true.” I said “But even though you learn from him in a hard way, he’s not that worst as a professor.”

“Do you like him??” Sehan resting her chin at the back of her hands as she looks at me dearly

“Huh??! … Why?!! … How can you reach that kind of conclusion?!” chuckles “We always argue with simple things as if they’re complicated but it’s not.”

“Hahaha, I’m only asking if you like him as a professor.” Sehan laughing at me “You don’t have to be so defensive.”

“Ah … hahaha.” laughing my embarrassment off “I don’t hate him but I don’t like him either.”

“Hmm … that’s quite difficult to understand.” Suho scratching his forehead

“That’s how girls think.” Hammond drinking another glass of soju “You’re not normal if you completely understand their complicated minds.”

“Hey, Hammond don’t drink too much, we’re going to the airport later, we can’t ride the plane if you’re drunk.” taking the soju bottle away from him

“Just let him be, besides it’s Sunday tomorrow, let’s just spend a night in a hotel and go back home tomorrow, I also want to get drunk tonight.” Sehan

“Will you be alright, if you don’t come home tonight?” Suho looking at me worriedly

“I think so.” I’m not worried at all because I’m being monitored all the time because of the mind link between me and Papa Justin “These two doesn’t want to stop drinking, so what else can we do?” looking at Sehan who’s drinking out from happiness while Hammond because of a broken heart

Hammond introduced himself to Sehan earlier but she told him directly that she wants to be Poseidon’s future wife like a devoted fan to her idol. The next thing we know, we’re drinking to celebrate her good news and lament at the bad news for my brother-like friend.

We checked in to the hotel nearby, Sehan and I shared a room while Hammond and Suho at the next room. I made a phone call in the morning before Seaof might freak out that I’ve been missing for 24 hours. As expected, Papa Justin already know what happened and he only told me to take care going back home. But as much as I want to spend more time having fun with the man, I think I like, I have to go back to coax the man I need to marry.

“Papa, I’m home.” taking off my shoes at the entrance “Where’s papa?” asking Seaof who seems to be in the bad mood

“Bathroom.” Seaof not even looking at me and pretending to be focus watching TV

“I see, what did you have for lunch?” walk towards the kitchen to get something to drink

“Penne Arrabbiata.” he’s obviously mad at me for not coming home last night

“Shall we have salad for dinner later?” sneaking in behind him and hop on to the couch that changes his facial expression from poker to surprised

“Oh, you’re back.” Papa Justin come out from the bathroom after taking a bath “I want something healthy for dinner.” wiping his wet hair with towel

“Alright, hmm … what about Caprese Salad Tower?” exchanging glances at him because of Seaof’s mood

“Then you have to go to the market, we don’t have ingredients for the dish you want to make.” Papa Justin gesturing to ask Seaof

“Seaof, will you accompany me to the market to buy the ingredients for our Caprese Salad Tower?” trying to get his attention

“Justin, aren’t you even going to scold Nene for returning this late afternoon instead of last night??!” Seaof frowning at Papa Justin

“Well she’s back home safe and sound, why do I have to scold her?” Papa Justin walking away from the living room and leaving me alone with Seaof

“Your father is too carefree; he should be worried that you didn’t come home last night but he slept perfectly like he doesn’t care.”

“It’s not because he doesn’t care, it’s because he trusts me.” turning off the TV “Did you wait for me last night?”

“Do you even have to ask?! You said you’ll be back home but you didn’t, do you know how worried I am that something bad might happened to you??!”

“Wow, you really are worry wart.” laughing at him “As long as Papa Justin is calm you don’t have to worry about me, he knows better than anyone else.”

“How can he know better if you’re far away from him?!!” still being worked up

“Father instinct.” Papa Justin walks in to the living room “Why don’t you two go to the market and spend some time together, would that satisfy you?”

“Forgive me if I’m overreacting, I shouldn’t have crossed the line, sorry.” Seaof snapped back to reality

“You’re forgiven.” tap his shoulder “I’ll just change my clothes then off we go to the market.”

“Oh, alright, I’ll wait for you then.” back to his timid self like nothing happened

“Geez, he’s really a piece of work.” muttering to myself as I go to my bedroom “I don’t think he have the guts to tell me that he likes me.” sighing

After changing my clothes into shirt and shorts, I went out with Seaof to the market. If he’s been with hundreds of girls before he must like seeing some skin, I don’t know if he could notice that I’m not conservative around him.

“Put this on your waist.” handing me his jacket “I shouldn’t have let you wear those shorts before we left your house.”

“I’m wearing pants the whole day yesterday until this afternoon, I’m just letting my skin to breathe.” tying the jacket on my waists

“I understand but we’re in a crowded place, some men keep on looking at your legs.” closing the distance between us

“They can look but they can’t touch, don’t worry I know how to defend myself.” showing him my fist

“Geez, you don’t understand, I don’t like other men to look at you specially with malice.” touching the back of his neck

“You’re being overprotective, but thank you for your concern, I appreciate it.” holding onto his arm that makes him blush

“Uhm … uh … do we bought everything we need or we’re still looking for other ingredients?” stuttering like a shy boy

“That’s all in my list.” checking the list once more “Yeah, we bought everything, give me one bag, I shouldn’t let you carry everything for me.”

“It’s alright, it’s not that heavy, let’s go to the car then.” holding the bags firmly “I know I have weak stamina but I can at least do this.”