Seoul Searching

Seoul Searching OST

LET’S NOT FALL IN LOVE – BIGBANG

Toy – Block B

Do U Like – KIM WOO SEOK

Bean pod (Feat. Gonhills) – MAZ.B, Gonhills

Just Like The Rain – GRAY

Memories – KIM WOO SEOK, Lee Eun Song

Eternal Flame – PENTAGON

Daydream – THEY BOYZ

STAY – BLACKPINK

Beautiful – KIM WOO SEOK

Waterfall (EUNHO solo) – UNVS

Bad Habits – SHAUN

Don’t Say No (Feat. Jay Park) – SURL, Jay Park

예뻤어 You Were Beautiful – DAY6

I Loved You – DAY6

Home – SEVENTEEN

Snow – SURL

Remember – WINNER

Give You Up – UNVS

Bump Bump – WOODZ

HOLO – LeeHi

nostalgic night – VICTON

My Flower – JBJ

Tulips – SNUPER

TMI – NeD

We Need To Be Careful To Love – Poetic Narrator

Chapter 1 (하나)

You’re what? Maria jumped up in bed during her usual late night chic chat with her best friend Valerie.

I’m getting married! Val shouted, flaunting the large diamond on her left ring finger over FaceTime, causing Maria to lift the phone closer to get a better look.

Maria’s best friend since diapers was getting married. This is the beginning of the end, she thought. Once one friend got engaged, the rest were sure to follow. And then there she was—Maria, the perpetually single friend who could never hold a relationship for more than a month. Mostly because all the men she dated ended up cheating on her, but also because committed was never a word that people would use to describe her behavior.

She had changed majors four times throughout her college career, and once she graduated she’d had a series of jobs that never kept her attention for longer than six months. The only constants she had were her mother and her best friend Val. Now Val was getting married, and lately all Maria’s mother could think of was getting her only daughter down the aisle. It was almost to the point where she could have her own reality dating show.

Most people wouldn’t believe that there were mothers like Maria’s still around. Ones who showed off their daughter’s picture to random men she would see while standing in line to get coffee at the local shop. The kind of mom who made fake dating profiles, essentially catfishing men, and then made plans that were just as fake with her daughter so she would walk into a blind date with said man who thought he’d been talking to her for a month.

A mom who, every single time a family friend announced their child was getting married, spiraled into a depression so deep, the only way to pull her out was for Maria to go on a few dates with men she had absolutely no interest in. Yeah, that kind of mom.

Val had always been there to help Maria get past all the skeevy men, the mom harassment, and everything else they ever got themselves into. Then Val had gotten her dream job as an interior designer to the rich and moved across the country. Maria knew things would never be the same, but it didn’t end the bond they shared. They talked regularly and Maria would visit when she had free time between jobs. Now Val was about to lose her constant status. Marriage was a whole new beast, and Maria wasn’t sure she could compete with a husband.

I couldn’t believe it! Val said with a squeal. We were out to dinner, and he was talking about taking me to go and meet his parents, and how he wanted a family of his own and then BAM! He was down on one knee, Val gushed and fell with a soft thud onto her bed.

You’ve never met his family? Shouldn’t that come before the wedding? Ya know, to see what you’re about to get yourself into? Maria fell back onto her own bed, twirling her long brown hair between her fingers.

Well his family is all in Korea, Val explained as she snuggled into her comforter.

Korea? Good or bad half? Are you sure he isn’t a spy? Are you sure you’re not about to be kidnapped? I watch the news! Maria was both joking and fairly serious.

You’ve met the boy. Does he seem like a spy? Val said, rolling her eyes.

"That’s what he wants us to think," Maria joked, putting on her best interrogation voice.

They’re from South Korea. The family lives in Seoul, in some well-to-do area. Apparently they are fairly wealthy on their own. The smile on Val’s face couldn’t be wiped off, and Maria could see her excitement radiating through the phone camera.

Look at you, marrying for love and finding out he’s also loaded as hell. Good things truly come to good people.

You know I don’t care about the money, Val said with a shrug.

Maria looked off to the side and scrunched her nose, trying everything not to roll her eyes at her friend, who wasn’t quick to catch her sarcasm.

I know that, Val. It’s my way of saying congrats.

I called for another reason, Val said and instantly exchanged her light laughter for a serious tone.

Is this a shotgun wedding? Should I be buying you diapers and a cradle instead of a set of plates? Maria said as she grabbed her computer to begin the quest for baby gifts.

Oh my God, Mari! No, no. Nothing crazy like that. I wanted to know if you’d like to be my maid of honor?

That halted all Maria’s movements. Maid of honor?

Maria’s heart flew through the roof with happiness but also with the realization that it could be as bad as a death sentence. Her mother, the woman set on trying to have Maria married by the end of, well, every year since she graduated high school, would more than likely hear about this and start the quest of finding Maria a date for the wedding and more.  

Are you kidding me? Maria couldn’t believe her bestie even had to ask.

I’ve never been more serious. Except for maybe when I said yes to Jung-hyun, Val giggled.

Yes! I would love to! OMG, I need to start planning a bridal shower and a bachelorette party—

Well Korean weddings are a little different, Val said, cutting off Maria’s planning excitement.

But you’re not Korean.

"Since I never followed any religion and don’t really know my cultural background, one of the negatives of being adopted, and Jung-hyun’s family is steeped in tradition, I decided I’d follow suit."

Ah, was all Maria could say as her mind was still processing her friend’s decision.

I mean, I guess we can still do the Western thing of a bachelorette party. You know I want to wear a crown.

Western? You make it sound so foreign. Maria was starting not to recognize her friend, and concern grew with every passing second they stayed on the phone.

It is…or it will be, Val said, clearly avoiding something.

If you don’t spit it out in the next sentence, I’m going to fly over there just to slap you, Maria half-kidded, her impatience growing.

The wedding is going to be in Seoul…South Korea.

Chapter 2 (둘)

인천공항. She stared at the screen on the headrest in front of her. The little plane hovered over a map of Korea, telling her she had arrived at Incheon International Airport. After sitting in a cramped seat for close to twenty-four hours, she was happy to let her legs get a nice walk. She didn’t expect the walk to be almost a mile of twists and turns through customs and finally baggage claim to head to the concourse to find Val.

She was exhausted. Picturing a nice shower to alleviate her aching muscles and a firm bed and fluffy comforter for a well-deserved nap, Maria walked a little faster toward the exit. As she walked past the large airport welcome sign that read 한국에 오신걸 환영합니다, she felt relieved to see that although it was in what looked like similar hieroglyphics to those on the plane, the sign also had English underneath that said Welcome to Korea.

Before she had time to look around, she felt a faint vibration in her pocket. Pulling her phone from her pocket, she saw the name and dreaded swiping to answer.

Mom, I literally just landed. I haven’t even found Val yet, she said, rolling her eyes and clutching the handle of her rollaway luggage tightly.

Did you sit next to anyone nice on the flight? It was a long journey, her mom probed.

Are you seriously asking if I met someone on the flight? Maria hissed. Her mom was beyond unbelievable.

You never know. And with a flight that long—

Maria couldn’t let her mom finish the ridiculous line of questioning and quickly cut her off. I met a lovely mother and her baby daughter, who shockingly didn’t cry for the whole flight, and the second flight was a sixty-year-old man who was going to visit his son, whose wife just gave birth to his first grandson.

Really? Such a shame, the disappointment in her mother’s voice wasn’t surprising.

By the way, I landed safely and none of my luggage was lost, she said with a heavy sigh as she was being passed by thousands of other travelers. 

Geez, there are a lot of people here. 

Of course, of course. I’m glad you’re safe. Give Val a hug and kiss for me. And maybe ask her fiancé if he has any nice single—

Gotta go, Maria said and hung up before her mother finished. Not only because she didn’t want to hear the end of the statement, but also because she had walked into what looked like a city square in the middle of the airport. It was filled with thousands of people, both travelers and loved ones, offering their hugs of either hello or goodbye.

Hundreds of stores, some familiar, most unrecognizable, lined the raised walkways surrounding the square. A few had brightly colored dancing furries outside, while others had attractive women handing out samples of products enticing people to come in. Several of the clothing stores caught Maria’s eye, with their mannequins wearing trendy outfits, but she was on a mission to find Val. A feat that was starting to look like a mission impossible as she made her way to one of the several escalators going down toward the exit. 

Looking out among the sea of people and things, Maria also caught walkways that looked as if they were encapsulated in pristine glass. Colorful LED screens hung above her, with more of the Korean letters displaying products she had never heard of. She felt as if she had entered something out of a sci-fi future fantasy world and wondered if she would ever find her best friend among the masses.

Maria looked around, searching for the large pile of curly black hair atop tanned skin, when suddenly a loud squeal came from across the concourse. She spotted her best friend waving frantically, jumping up and down. Bolting past a mound of luggage, Val ran to wrap Maria in a huge hug.

Mari! Val squealed as she jumped up and down with Maria in her arms. Her face was buried in the lavender scent of Val’s hair. Maria had forgotten how strong her bestie was. Interior design included a lot of moving heavy art and furniture around. And working for the rich and famous of San Francisco was proving great for Val’s muscles.   

Val! Maria squealed back, and they giggled their way through all the excitement. Having her best friend back in her arms felt like all was right with the world again. 

It’s been way too long! Maria was so happy to actually be able to hug her friend. First you move across the country, and now we’re more than halfway around the world for your wedding! P.S. Are we still in an airport?

I know, right? Val chuckled. When I landed I said the same thing. Jung-hyun gave me a tour of the place and, I kid you not, we spent half the day here. If you think this is impressive, Seoul is a twenty-four-hour city. New York is a total noob when it comes to all-night festivities. Seoul is the true city that never sleeps. You’re going to love the food, the culture, the drinks, the people, the men. Val couldn’t stop gushing about the place, and so far Maria had to agree the place was going to be some kind of sight.

Did my mom already call you too? Maria scolded her bestie. I’m not interested in the men. I’m here to celebrate my best friend in the entire world getting married! But I’ll admit I can’t wait to see your Jung-hyun again. I only met him once when I came to visit, and we’ve maybe said a few words to each other during FaceTime. I’m glad I’m getting the time to know him better. Make sure he is one hundred percent right for my girl.

Isn’t it kind of late for you to tell me whether he’s a good one or not? Val laughed as she grabbed the handle of Maria’s luggage to get them out of the prying eyes that seemed to be on the two of them. He’s staying with his family, but you’ll get to see him again and meet his best friend tonight when we go for drinks.

"What do you mean he’s staying with family? Where are you staying?" Maria had started to get weird vibes about this wedding since the day Val announced it was even a thing. There were too many variables that didn’t leave Maria with the feeling she was going to be happy for her friend’s marriage.

His family put you and me up in an amazing penthouse a little way from their place. Traditionally, couples don’t stay overnight, or even live together, unless they’re married. It’s changed a little bit over the years, but his family is old school so…

You’re serious? You’re actually living separately this whole month? Maria grabbed her friend’s wrist to stop her from avoiding more eye contact. When Val looked back to Maria, her deep brown eyes were swimming with emotion. Maria knew that look. She had seen it hundreds of times. Val wasn’t happy with the situation, but she couldn’t change it and was doing her best to keep a brave face until the problem would pass. 

Jung-hyun and I may not go home together, but we spend a lot of time with each other. To be honest, even when we lived together that week because of my apartment flood, we never actually spent the whole night together; well, not on purpose. I usually slept in his guest room, she explained calmly, her voice not wavering. Maria always had to praise Val’s strength through adversity. While Maria would’ve found Jung-hyun’s family and told them to shove it, Val kept it classy, and in the end would win exactly what she wanted. 

But when do you get to… Maria trailed off waiting for Val to finish the sentence. What shocked Maria was the bright shade of red Val was turning. You haven’t…never…what the hell? Really?

진짜, Val responded nervously.  

Jin— Huh? Maria knew whatever was said was not English.

진짜, Val said, correcting her pronunciation. Then she quickly said, 미안해…which is Korean for sorry.

"Mi…an…hae, Mari repeated, thinking she’d be using that word a lot in the next month Seriously?" she added, wondering if her friend was for real about learning Korean.

진짜. Seriously. English isn’t totally common here yet. I’ve been learning since Jung-hyun and I started dating, and it’s getting more comfortable for me to speak it. Especially here.

"Could’ve given me that small heads-up." Maria could feel the anxiety creeping up on her as she realized how much of an outsider she was. Looking around to find the few English signs around, she noticed some people were staring and pointing at them but Val didn’t seem to care.

Just ignore it, Mari. But if you want to know, all of them are giving you some high compliments. The men think you’re a hottie, Val said and laughed as she wheeled Maria’s bag out of the airport.

The scent of the city hit Maria’s nostrils and comfort filled her. She might not know Seoul, but city life was a happy place for her. When Val and Maria were kids, they had always talked about getting a small apartment in New York City together, living their dream lives in their dream city. But while Val had a life plan, big dreams, and a smart head on her shoulders, Maria had always lacked direction. While intelligent, she didn’t know where to funnel her knowledge, and she hoped that one day she’d figure out what to do.

At the curb a man standing by a large luxury sedan noticed them approaching even though the place was packed full of cars, vans, buses, and people. He opened the car door as he executed a deep bow.

This is yours? Maria asked, opening her eyes wide with surprise.

Jung-hyun’s family prefers using a car instead of public transportation.

These people seem to have a lot of say in what you do and don’t do. Maria couldn’t hide her concern about the situation any longer.

Maria… Her friend seemed to know where the conversation was headed and also that it was not the time or the place to be having the discussion.

You can’t live with him, you haven’t slept with him, they won’t let you choose how to get around. Next you’re going to tell me they tell you what to eat, how to dress, and when you can use the restroom, she said as they climbed into the car.

Although Maria wasn’t happy, she also felt impressed with the car service Val’s fiancé’s family had provided. The expensive vehicle was packed with high-end creature comforts. Leather heated seats, video monitors on the back of the front headrests, arm rests with charger ports, and cold water bottles in the cup holders were all peak luxury.

It’s a cultural thing. Be happy they accepted me at all. A lot of Korean parents have people already set up for their children, and even if they’re in love with someone else, they marry who their parents choose. Don’t even get me started on the whole interracial thing, Val explained, grabbing a water bottle and taking large swigs, clearly uncomfortable with Maria’s slightly accusatory tone.

You’re joking, right? What century are we in? Did my plane time travel? Maria hadn’t expected to start this journey with a fight, but the worry about people she had never met was causing her to take it out on her best friend.

Please, Mari, Val begged.

I’m sorry, but the things you’re telling me sound ridiculous and archaic. And I can’t believe that you’re going along with it so calmly.

Because I love Jung-hyun. I would do just about anything for him. It’s not like he hasn’t fought for my side on some of these things. He’s a great man, and we are fine with this setup for now. It’s only for the next month or so.

"Or so?" Maria’s neck snapped as she whipped her head around to face her friend.

Well, after the ceremony—

You’re going back to your dream job in California, designing homes for the rich and famous, right? Maria’s nails dug into the leather as she fought to control her anger.

I really like it here, Maria. This city is massive, and I could easily get the same job. Probably work a lot more and make way more connections…

"Valerie! Maria never used her friend’s full name unless absolutely necessary, and this was definitely time for it. Who are you? Have they brainwashed you? Are you joining some sort of cult? You’ve never jumped into something like this so quickly! Even the move to California was a two-month back and forth, and that was for your dream job. All of a sudden you’re happy with just packing up and moving to a different country to make this dude’s family happy?"

It’s not like that. I haven’t even mentioned it to Jung-hyun yet. It’s just that…I see how happy he’s been with his family around, and I want to see him that happy all the time, Val said.

Her friend appeared to have entered her own world where dopey grins and glazed-over eyes seemed to be her new standard look. But Maria couldn’t let it go. You could make him that happy with just the two of you. Alone. Home. In California.

It’s a different kind of happy. Maria, I know you’re worried and I understand. But please, for my sake, stop and wait until you spend more time with Jung-hyun. During all the times you’ve spoken with him, even when you met him, did he ever seem like some evil guy set on ruining my life and making me a stay-at-home wife, whose only job is to cook and clean?

Val had a point. The several times Maria had spoken to Jung-hyun, he seemed like a great guy. Downright romantic, even.

With a huff of defeat, Maria nodded. Fine. I will stop, for now. But I’m gonna have words with him at some point. For today I will be the best friend who’s super excited that her best friend is getting married.

Thank you, Mari, honestly. Val’s voice held desperation and Maria hated that she was the one to cause strain, but she wasn’t someone who held back. It’s probably why she was perpetually single and had very few good friends. Except Val. Maria would do whatever she could to see her friend happy.

As Maria sat back in the comfortable leather seat, she looked out the window to view the bustling city she was about to call home for the next four weeks. Only four weeks, she thought, and hoped her friend’s wedding would go off without Maria accidently causing an international incident.

Korean Vocabulary:

인천공항 – Incheon konghang – Incheon Airport

한국에 오신걸 환영합니다- hangukae oshinkeol hwanyeong ham ni da – Welcome to Korea

진짜 – jinjja - seriously

미안해- mianhae – sorry

Chapter 3 (셋)

형! Hwan Soo shouted at the man who was truly more like a brother than a friend to him.

Jung-hyun, his best friend, flashed a million-watt smile. It was good to see his friend’s face after so long. Four years. Four long years since he’d actually seen Jung-hyun in the flesh.

Hwan Soo-a! 오랜만이다, Jung-hyun said, walking over to Hwan Soo and giving him a big brotherly hug.

For sure. Too long if you ask me. You look great, 형, Hwan Soo said, repeating his earlier greeting.

나? Jung-hyun gave himself a quick once-over before glancing back at Hwan Soo. Look at you! Clearly acting is treating you well. Jung-hyun strolled to the counter to order coffee. While tea might’ve been the lifeblood of most Koreans at one time, coffee had taken over top spot in recent years. Not only for the taste or trend, but because of the artwork and colors some baristas had created for their customers.

Hwan Soo loved this particular café because of its quiet atmosphere. Most people were there to get work done, keeping their heads down in a book or tapping away at a computer. It was the perfect place to stay anonymous. If no one looked, no one would recognize him. Not that many would as he had yet to make it big.

The café had stark white walls which let in light from the large floor-to-ceiling front windows, brightening the whole place even though it was tucked into a narrow alleyway.  

Continuing the café’s clean aesthetic, several small yet ornate flower arrangements lined the middle of the long obsidian bar counter, while shorter black-and-white tiled circular tables were scattered through the café.

The smell of the different coffees brewing blended and instantly woke any sleepy soul. Pastries, which looked more like works of art than something that should be eaten, lined the small glass shelves near the stark black counter.

As they approached the counter, the young man at the register bowed and said, 안녕하세요.

Hwan Soo reciprocated the kind hello and added his order. 커피 이 인분 주세요.

네, the server confirmed, and at Hwan Soo’s nod, quickly got to work on making the coffees for them.

How is my famous best man doing? Jung-hyun said, resuming their conversation once the barista handed them their order.

야, no one knows me, Hwan Soo said, downtrodden. I’m still only a small-time actor, second lead material. No one wants to hire me for a lead. Not that being second lead is the worst thing. He just never gets the girl.

I remember when you thought no one would hire you at all, but look at how far you’ve gotten, Jung-hyun reassured. I’ve seen your name pop up more and more on the fan sites lately. I’m sure you’ll hit it big soon. Have you auditioned for anything new recently?

Yeah, it’s a lead role and casting calls end today. But as much as I want it, I haven’t heard anything yet. If I were to get it, filming would start this month, and I know this is an important time for you. I want to be here to support my biggest fan for his wedding, Hwan Soo explained as they made their way to one of the small tables in the corner that looked out to an almost empty, hidden alleyway. Unlike in other countries, in Korea one could usually stumble on some of the best food, bars, and even cafés on the side streets. That’s how Hwan Soo had found this go-to coffee shop, a bookstore, and a bar.

Thanks. I appreciate you being there for me, Jung-hyun said, clapping him on the back.

More importantly, where is the unlucky lady who agreed to marry you? I still can’t believe you, the man who swore women were nothing more than a distraction from success, will soon be tied down. And that you were the one to suggest it, Hwan Soo joked.

You’ll officially meet her tonight. She’s picking up her maid of honor, Maria, at the airport right now, Jung-hyun said as he sipped his coffee and let out a small moan of appreciation.

I’m sure they are going to have a lot of stuff to catch up on before the wedding, so they’re going to enjoy their time together. Just like us, Hwan Soo said and smiled.

About that… Jung-hyun’s face contorted as he struggled to form words, obviously nervous to break whatever news it was to his friend.

Spit it out, 형, Hwan Soo said impatiently.

Maria doesn’t really understand how Val and I started dating, and we don’t want her to know just yet. Val wants to tell her at some point on this trip, but she isn’t ready. So you need to keep our secret.

Hwan Soo knew the way that his friend’s relationship had started had been unorthodox, but nothing that was unheard of. Having read enough drama scripts, he recognized that his friends had fallen in love in a fairly cliché trope. Wealthy man borrows not-so-wealthy woman to help him out of a jam and suddenly they fall in love. If Hwan Soo could pitch it to one of his director buddies, they’d eat it up.

Why is it that she doesn’t know? I mean if they’re best friends…

As Val put it, Maria is the type who wouldn’t be thrilled that her best friend was ‘used to further a man’s place in the world’, Jung-hyun said.

That’s a very negative view of what actually happened. It wasn’t really like that, Hwan Soo argued. Was Val’s friend really that stubborn that she wouldn’t try to understand how her best friend had fallen in love? How could this person claim to be her friend at all?

Unfortunately Maria has a skewed view of romance and falling in love.

What woman doesn’t? Hwan Soo joked, thinking it was true though. Except for his last ex, the women he dated had mapped out their entire future from day one. Most of the women were blind dates his mom had set him up on for the sole purpose of becoming his wife.

His ex, however, was the one woman who’d broken his heart by not wanting more, and his heart was still on its road to repair. She had been the one woman he had wished to plan a future life with and when she left, he no longer had any interest in that kind of future. Bachelorhood was his best bet at enjoying life.

Just please, keep it a secret for now, Jung-hyun begged.

Fine, Hwan Soo reluctantly agreed for the benefit of his friend. But when he looked over at Jung-hyun, who was sipping his coffee slowly, thoughtfully, Hwan Soo knew there was something else he needed to say.

I know there’s more, so please spit it out, Hwan Soo demanded.

How did you… Jung-hyun started to say but didn’t need to finish the question. Having been friends since they were four years old made it easy to read each other. I need your help with Maria.

Help how?

Since she doesn’t speak or read Korean, you’ll need to help her get around when Val and I are expected to do wedding planning. You’re essentially going to have to be her lifeline.

Lifeline? Isn’t that just another name for a babysitter? Hwan Soo sipped the bitter coffee, which left both a literal and figurative bad taste in his mouth. How often are you going to be dealing with all this wedding stuff?

It’s gonna be pretty packed with all the things Val needs to learn herself, and I don’t want her having to go it alone. Even though my parents have accepted the marriage, I don’t trust them not to try something to get her to run away. Not that she would, but I don’t want them to give her a reason to do it, Jung-hyun explained.

Hwan Soo knew Jung-hyun’s family was very traditional. Hwan Soo’s family was pretty similar, but he’d never broken the rules by dating a non-Korean girl because from what he had seen, foreigners were loud, obnoxious, had few manners, and didn’t dress all that well. Fashion was as important to Korean life as being well off and respecting elders.

After four years apart from the man who was like a brother, Hwan Soo had been sure that he was going to have time to catch up with his friend, reminisce, and make some new memories. Now that was being totally thrown away and replaced by having to hang around with an American girl.

But for Jung-hyun, Hwan Soo would use every acting skill in his arsenal to seem happy as he did what his friend asked. I’m sure that if she’s as great as Val, it’ll be just fine.

His one hope was that Val’s friend wouldn’t turn out to be like the typical tourists that caused his skin to crawl.

* * *

When Maria and Val entered the bar where they were meeting Jung-hyun, all Maria could think was, "Damn." It wasn’t like any bar she had ever been to back home. The ceiling was covered, literally every square inch, in empty liquor bottles that had been repurposed with twinkling lights. The tables and chairs were all mismatched, and the bar itself looked like it couldn’t make up its mind between bougie, noir, or hipster.

On the wall behind the counter, the liquor was stacked high on shelves with a library ladder the bartenders used to climb for the literal top shelf liquor. Above the bar was an insanely ornate chandelier that was easily six feet tall.

Unlike the mismatched furniture, the bartenders wore matching vests, striped shirts, and bow ties. The waitresses were all gorgeous, thin, and model-esque, swaying their hips in tiny black dresses that hid none of their curves.

When Maria finally took her eyes off the decor and staff, she noticed a handsome man waving at them who she immediately recognized as Jung-hyun. He was always well dressed, even when casual. Even though he looked like he’d just thrown on his oversized, large knit, electric-blue sweater, pale-blue ripped jeans, and Timberlands, she knew his outfit was carefully planned. His hair, black as the night sky and slightly wavy, hung just above his brow in a bowl-like fashion, clearly styled that way. Tall and lean, he had a sharply chiseled face accented by high cheekbones and a square jaw. Small black studs dotted his lobes and gleamed in the dim light in the bar. Looking around at the other men in the bar, Maria realized that men in the U.S. seemed to lack something Korean men had down to a science. Confidence in style.  

Val’s face lit up when she caught her soon-to-be husband’s eye. His face brightened just the same as she ran over to gently peck him on the cheek as he wrapped an arm around her shoulder.

"Maria, I know you’ve met once before, but now I’d like you to formally introduce you to my fiancé, Park Jung-hyun." Val’s smile spread nearly ear to ear. The excitement was evident in her voice. Seeing her friend this happy was really all Maria wanted.

She walked over to him with her arms wide and was about to give him a big congratulatory hug when there was a harsh tug on the collar of her shirt.

What the— She choked and spun around to see who the asshole was that had caused her to stop dead.

The young Korean man was handsome, easily over six foot tall, with a chiseled jawline and plump heart-shaped lips. He was dressed in an ornately embroidered denim jacket, white t-shirt, black jeans that hugged his toned thighs, and white sneakers. Even though he was a jerk, he was a handsome jerk with nice style.

누구세요? unknown rude guy said.

What the hell? she thought and wondered what the handsome jerk had said.

"아 친구야, 괜찮아, she is new to this, Jung-hyun said and clapped the man on his shoulder.  Maria, 미안해요, here PDA, like hugs, are not commonly seen or done. Couples will maybe hold hands and peck each other on the cheek, but larger gestures are just not acceptable in public. He didn’t mean to tug so hard. He was just saving you from embarrassment."  

Maria looked back over to Jung-hyun. You know this guy?

Maria, Val jumped in. That’s Jung-hyun’s best friend and also his best man.

I don’t care who he is, you don’t go pulling people by the collar. And what the hell did he call me?

He asked who you were, Val said, translating what the man had said.

친구, this is Val’s best friend and maid of honor, and your new partner in crime for the next four weeks, Jung-hyun explained to the man.

뭐라고? he asked.

Say what now? Maria said.

They said the words simultaneously, and while Maria might not have known the language, it was obvious his reaction was the same as hers.

I told you at the coffee shop that Maria is going to need to learn some Korean to give her speech at the wedding, Jung-hyun said.

No one said anything about me giving a speech in Korean. Maria’s jaw dropped open as her heart started to beat alarmingly fast. She sputtered trying to find the right words, but she was stunned. How could Val not mention something that pretty freakin’ important? 

Gathering all her composure and trying to act like the bomb they dropped wasn’t the size of a meteor, she added, If anything, Val can help me.

But I’m going to be busy with all the wedding stuff. Jung-hyun-a and his family have me taking classes on the different ceremonies that are done as part of a Korean wedding.

Shouldn’t I be accompanying you to those classes? I’m part of the wedding too, Maria said.

Yes, shouldn’t she? The deep voice of the man she thought couldn’t speak English reached her ears. In surprise, her body warmed as she continued listening to his alluring voice. A shiver went down her spine. 

Yeah! Wait. You speak English? she said, eyeing the man suspiciously.

He glanced at her, rolled his eyes, and didn’t bother to answer her question, which, she admitted, was pretty dumb considering she had heard him speak in almost perfect English.

Jung-hyun reached out to pat his friend’s shoulder. 친구야, you know just like I do that your jobs in the bridal party are just a Western thing. Maid of honor and best man are not a thing here in Korea. You won’t do much of anything until the reception, Jung-hyun explained to Maria.

But she’s… the man began, then stopped.

I’m what? Maria crossed her arms, dropped a hip, and looked over at him. His side profile was even more interesting than staring at him dead-on. The man was totally attractive, and if his gorgeous lips would’ve stayed shut, or if he’d kept his long, soft-fingered hands off her collar, she would have thought he was a total hottie.

His captivating deep brown eyes swung to Maria, raking over her with a smirk. You don’t want me to finish the sentence.

That smirk mixed with those full lips almost made her forget he was being a complete ass. The longer she looked at his lips, however, the more she lost her angry train of thought as her mind started picturing those lips moving down her neck and leaving little love marks along her skin. His voice alone was causing sensations through her body that not even her ex had caused when he’d physically touched her.

Somehow she fought back those thoughts and remembered that he was about to insult her. Her mind crashed back to reality.

Oh please, I’d love to hear you finish, she said with as much bravado as she could muster. "What’s your name? Chingu?" she said, repeating the name she’d heard Jung-hyun call him earlier. She gave Chingu an abrupt once-over, ready to pounce at whatever he had to say. She was also getting angry at how attractive she found him in his way too stylish outfit, obviously custom made for him, and how it was causing her body to react when her brain was screaming for her to ignore the jerk.

The two men of the group hunched over laughing while Val tried to nudge her fiancé to stop his near-tears chuckle.

Where did you find this girl? This is a joke, right? the still unnamed best man choked out through his laughter.

I’m no joke, you little—

His name isn’t 친구, Val cut in, trying to hold in her own little chuckle. Val looked at her fiancé for help—which he was unable to give—to stop Maria from saying anything potentially life ruining. 친구 means friend. It’s a term of endearment between friends. His name, Val said, pointing at the handsome jerk, is Lee Hwan Soo.

Lee Hwan Soo? Maria repeated, making sure she got the name correct.

Val nodded happily and Maria turned back to him to give him a piece of her mind. Listen here, Lee. I don’t-

Lee is my surname, he corrected.

Last names come first? Where am I? Her head pounded with anger and frustration and even worse, she hadn’t even had a sip of alcohol yet. She was feeling more out of place by the second.

You’re in Seoul, South Korea, where English isn’t the first language, and we have different customs. Start getting used to it. You’re here for a month, Hwan Soo responded with curtness. His gaze held no mockery, only total distaste for her. His lips were pursed since he was clearly holding back even more things he wanted to say.

It seemed her comment had gotten under his skin. While she wasn’t sure what she had said that warranted such a heated response, she also felt compelled to defend herself. This wasn’t exactly a well-planned trip for me. I was told two weeks ago that my best friend was engaged and then was asked to fly out here for a month to help plan the wedding. So excuse me, Mr. High and Mighty, for not grasping all of your culture and language in the… She paused and looked at her phone for the time. Ten hours I’ve been in your country.

Always the one to try to smooth out awkward situations, Val interjected, Let’s get some drinks. When she handed the drink menu across the table, Maria blinked several times. There were the same characters she had seen at the airport, but this time they didn’t have the nice English translations below.

Val, I can’t read any of this. Heat rushed up to Maria’s face as Lee Hwan Soo scoffed while standing next to her at the bar-top table.

Oh geez, I’m sorry Mari, right…umm…

Just get her one of the fruity soju drinks, His Royal Annoyance said.

No, it’s okay. I’ve got a headache so I think I’ll just go back to the apartment. Maria had felt uncomfortable all day, and the night so far had only solidified how out of place she was. She wanted to be there for Val, make things calm and easy for her best friend’s big day, but Maria being there seemed to complicate everyone’s life.

Oh come on, Mari. Please don’t leave, Val said and tried to stop her from going as Maria stepped away from their table.

She leaned close and in a low voice that only Val could hear, said, I can’t speak the language, I can’t even read it, I’m unfamiliar with the traditions, I know nothing. I don’t want to embarrass you. Plus, with all the traveling I did the last day and a half, this jet lag has taken its toll. Turning to the two men, she plastered on a bright smile and said, Enjoy your night. She bowed her head as she had seen others do during the course of the day, hoping she was at least catching on to that custom.

You managed to get that right, Douchey McDouche responded as he bowed his head.

She was trying out different names for him, but nothing seemed to encapsulate everything she was feeling about him.

Why was that Lee Hwan Soo guy such a hard-ass? It wasn’t like she had a crash course in Korean language and culture. She wasn’t opposed to learning new things, but he seemed to take everything she said about not understanding as an insult. She was frustrated and flustered so maybe she didn’t properly convey what she wanted to say, but it didn’t justify his sneer and judgment. While Val tried to calm the storm brewing between Maria and Lee Hwan Soo by whispering something to him and jerking her head at Jung-hyun to get involved, Maria knew that if she didn’t walk away, the situation would simply continue to deteriorate. That international incident she was worried about seemed imminent.

Hurrying from the bar, she found a long line of taxis outside, watching, waiting, probably hoping to see drunks stumble out to their cab. She walked over to one cab and climbed in. When he began to speak in Korean, she realized she was screwed. She bowed her head and was about to climb back out of the cab when her door quickly shut and someone rapped on the front driver window.

She was about to protest when the taxi driver rolled his window down and a too familiar and arrogant voice drifted in. Lee Hwan Soo pushed a piece of paper and a large wad of cash toward the man, whose face lit up like he had just received the biggest gift