Hi. I’m Kei.

Also Dan Hwal: *begging Sang-un not to die because he will kill her while softly caressing her cheek, proceeds on protecting her and becoming her knight in bloody clothes, letting her tend his wound, allowing her to hug him, telling his thoughts to her, saying that if Sang-un will die he will loss himself, and telling her not to die*

Ah, our bulgasal couple is really complicated.

(A Vincenzo Fanfiction written by YoungLadyKei)

Luca scratched his nape when he opened the door of the Capo’s office and found it empty. He loudly sighed. He turned around and made his way towards the direction where the master bedroom was located. Whenever his Capo is thinking of something deeply and he wants some peace, he usually goes to the room that was located on the right side of the master’s bedroom. The room was called the “special room” by the Cassano Famiglia mafioso because no one is allowed to enter that specific room except for the Capo and of course, to the right hand man which is him. “That” room was the Capo's resting place and he always told him that whenever he is inside of that room, he can think and decide clearly. Luca still remembers their conversation when Vincenzo asked him about his suggestion on the design of that room.

“She looks beautiful in black—Do you think it’s okay if we’ll paint it with black and gold?” Vincenzo Cassano asked him. Luca can’t help but to look at him with an astound expression. The Capo of Cassano Famiglia just asked him about the design of the room he always talked about. Vincenzo ordered him to secure this room because he has something to do with it. Luca was expecting that he will use it as his own storage room or as an office but he was surprised when Vincenzo told him that it will be a room for someone. He immediately thinks of someone who has the right to use the room beside the boss’ room. And well—the only person who can use that kind of room is either the most trusted person of the Capo or—the Cassano Famiglia’s Signorina, the wife of the Caporegime. As far as Luca can remember, Vincenzo is still not in a relationship with someone. But he wiped that thought out of his mind when he remembered what happened when he went to Korea to inform Vincenzo about what was happening to the famiglia. When they were in the plane, Vincenzo was silently looking at the fountain pen he was holding. He was also reading a weird book about befriending a bird. They were about to take off when Vincenzo suddenly told him that he thought of a better solution to their problem and ordered him to go back to Italy alone. Luca had no time to refuse when Vincenzo talked about his plan. After that, he watched him as he ran outside; he looked like he was in a hurry. Luca did mind him, as he was also busy thinking about what Vincenzo said before he ran out.

“Hong Cha-young needs me. I don’t want to put her in danger. I want to end this fight for her safety.”

Hong Cha-young.

And Luca just realized that the person who will be using the room is no other than Hong Cha-young, the female lawyer he met when he went to Korea.

“I think anything will do. I’m sure she will love anything as long as it was decided by you,” Luca safely answered Vincenzo’s question. Vincenzo just looked at him with his raised eyebrow. And then, he wandered his eyes in the room and crossed his arms over his chest. 

“Hm. Yeah, you’re right. I’m sure she will love anything but I want to give the best of the best to her. She deserves all of the best things in this world.” For the second time, Luca was shocked but he did not show it in order not to upset his Capo. He wanted to ask a lot of questions regarding the female lawyer. He wanted to know what’s the score between them but he chose to shut his mouth and keep his questions to himself. He just nodded his head to show his agreement. 

“The post card I told you to get?”

“Ah yes. It’s already on your table, Capo.” Luca blinked when he saw the small smile on Vincenzo’s face. Well, Vincenzo Cassano rarely smiles. Especially when he was still the consigliere, his face was void of emotion especially when he was having conversation with the late Paolo Cassano. Vincenzo gave a final look to the whole room before turning his back on it. He patted Luca’s shoulder and nodded at him.

And that was his last conversation with Vincenzo regarding the “special room” before he became busy in choosing it’s design and the furniture that will be placed in the room. He also became busy with the famiglia. Even though he did not mention her name again, Luca knew that the female lawyer would always be in the Capo’s mind and heart.

Luca came to a halt in front of an oak door with a justice scale carved into it, showing that the room was truly dedicated to the female lawyer. He can't stop himself from smiling. If his Capo had already found the love of his life, he was overjoyed. He shook his head and returned to his work. He knocked three times on the oak door, requesting permission to enter from his Capo.

Vincenzo yelled from inside the room, "Come in!" Luca opened the door as soon as he heard it. His Capo, sitting on the peach bed with his zippo, was the first thing he noticed. He cast his gaze over the room, catching a glimpse of the whole room.

And he just confirmed his suspicion.

The room's décor and design were meant for a lady. Perhaps his Capo will one day bring the Signorina to Malta to live with them. Perhaps his Capo is still hesitating because of the danger the female lawyer might face if she becomes entangled with Vincenzo Cassano, one of the most prominent mafia bosses.

But, whatever his Capo's decision is, Luca will back him up 100 percent.

“Luca, do you have anything to say?” When he heard Vincenzo's voice, he snapped back to reality.

“Sí, Capo.” Luca closed the door behind him and walked towards Vincenzo. “Someone has scheduled a meeting with you this afternoon, Capo. The person was adamant about meeting you and asked me not to expose their identity.” Vincenzo put down his zippo and turned to face Luca.

“You should know better, Luca. Before I meet someone, I need to know his identity—”

“I apologize for interrupting, but I am confident that if you meet this person, Signor, you would be extremely pleased.”

“Hmm.” Vincenzo crossed his knees and tapped the mattress with his right hand. Luca's behavior was out of the ordinary. Normally, he would provide him with information regarding the identity of the person he would be meeting. His right-hand man, Luca, is in charge of verifying everything before notifying him. Perhaps this person who wants to meet him will bring him joy.

Vincenzo Cassano began to consider the people he knew who would make him happy if he met them.

Except for a certain lawyer who is currently in South Korea, no one sprang to mind. His gaze was drawn to the post card affixed to the wall, on which the word "Malta" was written.

Impossible. He assured her that he would visit her in South Korea. And she doesn't have any idea where he lives. Vincenzo got to his feet and turned back to face Luca. He's bored, so why not meet the person who tried to conceal their true identity?

“Luca, if this person does not make me happy, you will undoubtedly suffer the consequences,” Vincenzo said.

"Sì signore. Capisco.”

His right hand was clasped around his zippo, while his left rested on the sofa's headrest. While they waited for the unknown person he was going to meet, Luca stood behind him. Vincenzo’s gaze wandered around the room. Luca took him into a room with a black and gold theme. Apart from the two crimson sofas and the glass table in the center of the room, Vincenzo couldn't find anything remarkable. The drab room was lit by a modest chandelier. He let out a sigh. He was about to say something to Luca when a server entered the room. The server was wearing a mask and carrying a bar tray containing a Bordeaux glass filled with whiskey. He walked towards the table. 

“Saluti, signore. Per favore, goditi i tuoi drink,” the server said and he placed the two Bordeaux glasses on the glass table. After placing it, he bowed, turned around and left the room. Vincenzo looked at the glass. 

“Luca—”

He was interrupted when the door of the room opened again. Vincenzo looked at the door hoping that the person who arrived was the person he was expecting. He is getting bored and he feels like he is just wasting his time waiting for someone he doesn't even know.

When Vincenzo Cassano saw who had entered the room, he was taken aback. He remained motionless for a moment, unable to comprehend the fact that he had just met the person he was seeking for. Vincenzo stood up when he realized what had happened.

“Vincenzo Cassano. È bello incontrarti di nuovo, figliolo.” Vincenzo smiled. 

“Salvatore Maranzano. I’ve been looking for you, padrino,” Vincenzo stated. Salvatore Maranzano, the Godfather of Bonanno Famiglia, an ally of Cassano Famiglia. Vincenzo had learnt a lot from Salvatore, who treated him as if he were his own son. 8 years ago, Salvatore disappeared without informing them about his whereabouts. He gave his position and mafia to his son and he was treated dead in the underground society. But here he is, alive and kicking. Salvatore walked towards Vincenzo and he hugged him. Vincenzo did not hesitate to hug him back. Salvatore patted his back before letting him go. 

“Ah. I inquired about you with my son, and he provided me with Luca's contact information. I chose to surprise you because I believe that is the current trend, and look at you, you were taken aback by my abrupt presence. Vincenzo, I'm happy you've taken over as leader of the Cassano Famiglia,” Salvatore stated.

Vincenzo looked at Luca and the latter was also looking at him, he nodded his head, acknowledging his effort. He shifted his gaze to Salvatore.

“Grazie mille padrino. Sono contento che tu sia tornato,” Vincenzo muttered. 

“Va bene. Let's sit. We have a lot to catch up on.” Vincenzo Cassano nodded his head and obliged. It was not the person he expected but he’s glad that he met the person who also helped him to become what he is now.

It had been a long and exhausting afternoon for Vincenzo. Salvatore explained a lot of things and he also urged him to talk about what happened to him. Maybe because he doesn't want to talk a lot, he felt tired after their conversation. Or because the person who should update him about her is still not messaging him. 

He kept in touch with Mr. Nam to keep him informed about what was going on in South Korea. So that he will know if something has happened and he will not hesitate to fly back to Korea to help them.

Or not.

The truth is he just wanted to be updated with what's happening to the female lawyer he badly wanted to see. He was also able to relay his message to her through Mr. Nam. And if she’s in danger, he will surely go back to South Korea without a second thought to save her. 

“Capo, would you like to stop by in your favorite café?” Luca asked. He was currently driving the car. Vincenzo forgot to thank him for what he did earlier but well, Luca already knew that he was thankful to him so there's no need to express his gratitude through words. Vincenzo just realized that Luca will not put him in danger. It seems like Luca kept on earning his trust. 

“Sí. I would like to have some drinks,” he responded. Vincenzo gazed out the window, taking in the scenery. He has no idea why, but whenever he is in Italy, he feels at ease. That's why, when he was in Korea 7 years ago, he kept on watching and listening to operas because he may not tell it, but he misses Italy. He considered the country his home, and his freedom.

But nothing feels like home when she was in his arms, their lips touching, her hands were on his nape as if telling him that he’s mine. 

Vincenzo shook his head. Italy is his home but he’s looking for someone who made him feel home.

Luca gazes at Vincenzo in the rear-view mirror. He caught him shaking his head. He smiled internally. Luca knew that Vincenzo was expecting someone but he was disappointed that the person who arrived earlier was not the person he was expecting. But as Luca can see, Vincenzo was glad after meeting the former godfather of Bonanno Famiglia. Luca knew that Salvatore was also a father to Vincenzo. Luca looked at the favorite café of the capo. His eyes squinted when he saw a familiar figure wearing a beige trench coat standing outside of the café.

“We’re here.” Luca parked the car in the parking lot of the café. He was about to get out of the car when Vincenzo stopped him.

“Stay here. I’ll be back shortly,” he stated. He did not wait for Luca’s response. He got his Ray ban wayfarer and wore it. Then he opened the door and got out of his car. He looked around before walking towards the entrance door of his favorite café, the Pacé café. The guard opened the door for him and he confidently entered and walked towards the counter. He felt the eyes of the other customers to him, but he paid them no mind. He was about to order espresso when he was again, for the third time, interrupted by someone. 

“One Iced Americano for me—ow, is that a sewage waste? Someone told me that Iced Americano is considered sewage waste here in Italy.” 

When he heard the voice, he was astonished. He did not react immediately because he clearly knew that voice. 

“Scusate. Scusate. You must be surprised. I’m just a tourist and I went here because I kept on waiting for someone and I’m getting impatient that's why I’m here.” The woman laughed. 

He slowly turned towards the direction of the woman. She was standing beside him, wearing a black sunglasses and a beige color-block trench coat paired with boots. The woman had a playful smile on her face, her attention was on the counter. Vincenzo Cassano’s stomach fluttered, his heartbeat raced and he gulped. 

He couldn't believe what he was seeing right now.

“Villains never break up because they're tenacious even when they love,” she muttered. Then, she looked at Vincenzo and removed her sunglasses. “Hi. Do you have any evidence to support that statement?” she asked. Vincenzo’s attention was focused on her. He was looking at her intently, his eyes piercing into her soul.

“Ma’am, here’s your—”

Gasped. When he pulled her closer to him, placed his hands on her nape, and kissed her lips, he heard a number of gasps. He drew his eyes closed, unwilling to believe she was there right in front of him. When he felt her hands on his nape, he felt relieved.

He kissed her like he didn't want to let her go. It was aggressive at first but the kiss became gentle and sweet. Vincenzo slowly slides his hands across her body and then rests one hand on her cheek.

“OH—” What transpired astounded both the cashier and the customers.

Vincenzo eased his grip on her and gently stroked her cheek. He murmured, "That's my evidence, Ms. Hong."

Hong Cha-young hugged him and grinned. The customers applauded and congratulated them. It was unnecessary, but Vincenzo can’t help but be proud. 

“Ti amo così tanto, Hong Cha-young. Ti amo che fa male,” Vincenzo muttered.

“Hm. Translate?”

“No translation for that, mio adorabile avvocatessa.”

[Vincenzo Fanfiction of Vincenzo by Kei]

She never demand anything to him. She always understands him, respect him and considered his situation. Even though she wants him to stay by her side, she never said it to him because she knows what his mind wants and where his heart belong. It was never on Korea; it was never on her side. Even if they held a special place in each others’ heart, it was never enough for her to encourage him to stay and it was never enough to make him stay. 

When Vincenzo Cassano left, Hong Cha-young told herself that it was okay. He needs to leave and she already knows that he will soon leave because he doesn’t belong in Korea. An Italian mafia lawyer whose hands were stained with blood, a man who ended the lives of men he considered evil, a man who delivered his preys toward their demise has no place beside the people who were just genuinely good, who were just standing for themselves and fighting for their rights. Vincenzo Cassano was no saint and he will never be. And the place where he belongs is the place where he can freely show his true self, the dark and vicious man who never flinches when he’s shooting his enemies, straight to their heads.

What Hong Cha-young saw was not his full dark side. She just had a glimpse of his true colors but she accepted him without judging him and urging him to change into someone Vincenzo Cassano doesn’t want to.

And he was forever grateful to Hong Cha-young. As he walked through the darkness of life, he found his oasis, his light and his refuge. He feels safe with her embrace, it was like she was defending him from the monster—from the evil who wants to conquer him whole. She was his strength, the sole reason why he decided to fight against Babel. He will always come back to see her and to tell her how much he misses her. And he only got one chance to express his feelings to her every year. 

Every year, Hong Cha-young was always looking forward to the day when Korea celebrates its diplomatic relationship with Italy. It was the day when the birds decided to make a bridge in order for them to meet each other. It’s the day when she will finally see the man she’s longing for. Hong Cha-young doesn’t have any problem when it comes to waiting for him once a year. She knows that he will arrive because that’s what he had told her. She believes in him because he’s Vincenzo Cassano, the man her heart decided to fully trust. The day when they can finally meet was one of the happiest days in her life. It was a short moment that feels like forever because she’s with the man she wants to spend her forever—her lifetime with. Their meeting may not last for a day but it was enough, standing next to each other and drowning themselves with each others’ presence was enough. Looking at each other’s faces and noticing the changes; talking about their lives and sharing matters regarding them that happened in the whole one year they did not meet. 

Hong Cha-young was standing two meters away from the painting “The Lovers” by René Magritte. It was the first painting that grabbed her attention as soon as she entered the gallery. The painting shows an image of a man and a woman that are trying to kiss each other but they are both separated by grey hoods, lips never meet and the cloth was dry and suffocating. They can’t see each other and they can not even kiss. What caught her attention was the hoods that were separating the two lovers. Hong Cha-young depicts it as the two were in love with each other but they were clearly separated because of some circumstances or they love each other but they clearly don't know each other; both of them were hiding their true selves behind the grey hoods. She nodded her head as if she was agreeing to her thoughts. The painting has a lot of meaning behind it and it will depend upon the person who’s looking at it. She decided to move on to the next painting beside it. It was the painting “Liberty Leading the People” by Eugène Delacroix. Hong Cha-young can’t help but to smile when she remembered a certain event 5 years ago; it was the night when the Geumga tenants won over the group of people who were trying to destroy the Geumga Plaza. It was an historic night for them; it shows how courageous and brave they are. She closed her eyes, trying to reminisce about the exact event on that night.

But the image that came to her mind was a man, standing with pride in his expensive Booralro suit. 

‘Buona serata, mademoiselle.’

The italian greeting was whispered through her ears. The deep and soft voice was carved in her mind, it never left her since the day she met him. It’s been five years. Hong Cha-young was always waiting for his arrival. She did not even realize that five years had passed, the only thought in her mind was there’s someone who cares for her that lives on an island and someday, she will be able to live on his side; someday they will live the way they wanted to be.

As she awaits his arrival, she looks around and sees familiar faces she had encountered before. And as usual, it brought back many memories to her and that was the time when everything that happened were wrong and bad but it felt right because they were serving justice on their own; together with her mafia man, Vincenzo Cassano. 

She sighed and looked back at the first painting she had seen; everything went on in a blur and the night just ended. The visitors were keep on looking at her direction probably wondering why she just kept on standing on the exact place. She didn’t mind them but it made her uncomfortable. The stares were nothing what’s worst was the man he was waiting did not arrive like he had promised to her. Vincenzo Cassano did not arrive like what he did 1 year ago.

Hong Cha-young has no problem when it comes to waiting for someone. She’s willing to wait especially if the person promises her that he will come and see her. She’s willing to wait especially if she’s holding onto something; something that reassures her that everything will soon be alright.

She wanted to wait. But the feeling of giving up was gnawing at her slowly. She’s willing to wait but she was slowly getting tired without even noticing it. 

She waited. 

As she walked on the spacious hall wearing her white floral chiffon maxi dress with a dramatic puff sleeves pairing with silver three-inch stiletto heels, she saw familiar people who she encountered ten years ago when she was visiting the gallery. They became her colleagues as they noticed that every year she just kept on coming back and they decided to talk to her. And now, for the last time, she decided to visit the gallery she once used to go to whenever it’s time for the celebration of the diplomatic relationship between Korea and Italy.

She stopped in front of the painting “The Kiss” by Gustav Klimt. The painting shows lovers, wrapped up in each other, enfolded in their everlasting kiss. 

‘They looked in love just by looking at how they shared their kiss and embraced each other,’ she thought. 

“Eomeoni!” A boy, probably five years old, wearing blue long sleeves and black pants paired with black sneakers, ran towards Hong Cha-young. Her thoughts were interrupted when the boy called her. She looked at him as he stopped in front of her. The boy was smiling widely at her and she noticed the gold chocolate bar he was tightly holding. She bent down and reached for his head. She ruffled his hair.

“Look! Someone gave me a gold bar! A gold bar!” he exclaimed. 

“Who gave that to you?” Hong Cha-young asked. 

“A stranger I met in the bathroom!” Hong Cha-young forehead slightly creased. Although the gold bar brought memories of her past, she just thought that she should teach her son not to accept anything from someone he doesn’t know.

“Hm? Where’s your abeoji?” she asked.

“Sorry. We took so long to roam around the gallery.” Hong Cha-young stood up straight as soon as she heard the familiar voice. 

“Abeoji!” The boy raised his hands and as soon as the man arrived in front of them he crouched down and carried the boy. He stood up and grinned at Hong Cha-young. She crossed her arms over her chest.

“I told you not to let go of him,” she stated. 

“I apologize, my wife. He’s just slippery—Aw!” Hong Cha-young pinched his shoulder. The boy giggled when his father exclaimed in pain. 

“Let’s get out of here. Let’s eat somewhere, shall we?” Hong Cha-young asked. The man immediately nodded.

“I’m starving. Where do you want to eat, my boy?” he asked the little boy in his arms. “Anywhere?” the boy answered, unsure of what he just said. Hong Cha-young smiled while lovingly looking at her husband and son. She was so lucky to have them. His husband looked at him and he extended his free hand towards her. He winked at her.

“Let’s go?” Hong Cha-young didn’t hesitate and she immediately took his hand. He stole a kiss on her cheek which made Hong Cha-young's eyes widen in surprise.

“Yah!—”

“Come on!” They walked hand in hand beside each other; their smiles were wide and their eyes twinkling with happiness. 

On the far side of the gallery, a man in his forties was standing beside a huge pillar. He was talking someone in the phone while looking at the retreating figures of the people he was tailing earlier. As soon as they entered the gallery, he immediately do his mission, it was to observe the family of three from a distance. 

“How is she?” the man from the other line asked. His voice was deep, a hint of tiredness can be heard from it. 10 years ago, the underground society was put under a chaos. The Famiglias have only two choices; it was to fight or die. Their Famiglia was engaged into a battle where they had to keep their loved one's safe and themselves alive. 

“She’s okay. Her son was already five years old. I actually gave him a gold chocolate bar which he gratefully accepted. She’s.....” a long pause, “happy.”

He had no choice but to abandon the promise he told her. It was to protect her from the danger of the world he lives in. If his enemies knew that he has someone he loves and truly cares, they will surely target her because she was his weakness. And he’s afraid to lose the only person who was keeping him from the darkness; he was afraid to lose his only light. In order to keep her safe, he has to let him go.

It was painful but he was happy he did that, ten years ago.

Because she’s happy now, living the ordinary life he can’t give her. Because no matter how he tries, he can’t leave the life his foster father gave him and he can’t just bring her into it, without destroying her virtue. 

“Grazie, Luca,” he said and ended the call. The night was cold, he could feel the breeze coming from the sea. He held the wine glass and stared at the vast darkness outside his massive window. 

“Buona serata, mademoiselle,” he softly whispered in the air. 

[A Fanfic One-shot of Vincenzo written by Kei]

The Caporegime of Cassano Famiglia was an invincible and vicious man. He was an intelligent and sharp-witted mafia boss. No one can outsmart the wise Capo. A lot of Italian Mafia were being careful on the Cassano Famiglia; they were afraid to become a fertilizer on a wide grape vineyard of the said famiglia. Thank goodness, the Cassano Famiglia stayed low after the war that was waged by the Gambino Famiglia. Of course, the latter was defeated by the former; it was the expected ending by the expectators. 

Especially that the Gambino Famiglia made the Caporegime of Cassano Famiglia enraged. The reason for his anger was not yet discovered by the other Famiglias but rumor has it that the Gambino Famiglia involved and threatened a woman from the Cassano Famiglia. So, who was the woman? The rumor became the talk of the underworld, a lot of mafioso had different bets on who was the woman that became the root of the Cassano Famiglia Caporegime’s wrath. 

The majority says that it was the unknown Queen of the Cassano Famiglia. The godmother; the woman who stands by Capo's side. Because of that, a lot of mafioso became interested in the woman and decided to dig up some information but a lot of them failed. Some decided to stop digging for information; some dug their own grave; and some became a fertilizer to the grape vineyard.

Currently, the Cassano Famiglia is staying on an island and they were silent for a while. The island, which was named Pagliuzza, became their domain. No one can enter the island except for the Cassano Famiglia. There was an incident when someone tried to infiltrate the said island, but his attempt failed and he was now six feet under the ground. He failed to infiltrate the island and he failed to come back to his home.

Vincenzo Cassano was sitting on a royal purple sofa, his left hand was rubbing his temple while his right hand held the .44 Remington Magnum pistol he just used earlier. His right hand has bloodstains, indicating that he just finished someone off. Luca was standing in front of him, his hands were both on his side. He gulped when he saw Capo tightened his hold on the gun’s grip.

“Dov'è lei?” Vincenzo asked in a low voice. Luca bowed his head, as a sign of submission.

“Mi dispiace, Capo. We didn't notice her escaping. We just saw the note on her bed telling that she will go back to Korea,” Luca answered. 

“Cazzo!—I told you that you should keep an eye on her. That woman—” Vincenzo can't help but sigh. He just came back from his gruesome work and he was expecting that that certain woman will just stay in the villa just like what he said. But he expected a lot from her when he knew how stubborn she was. 

“Look for—”

He was interrupted when the door of his office suddenly burst open and someone came in.

“Bonjour! Bonjour—Oh, are you still busy?” The woman they were looking for, smiled and walked towards them. She was wearing a pastel pink suit and pants and underneath was a creamy satin top. She was carrying her Gancini top-handle bag of Salvatore Ferragamo that was given to her by Vincenzo Cassano. She was smiling brightly; it seemed like she was in a good mood. She looked at Luca and she waved her hand which Luca answered with a small smile. 

“You can go,” Vincenzo Cassano said to Luca but his gaze was focused on Hong Cha-young. Hong Cha-young encouragingly nodded towards Luca and for the second time, she waved her hand to him, saying her goodbye. 

“Sì, Capo,” Luca politely said. Once again, he smiled at Hong Cha-young and the latter just nodded her head. Luca walked outside of the room and he closed the door after he came out. 

“Addioooo~” Hong Cha-young playfully said. Then she looked at Vincenzo Cassano. 

Vincenzo was looking at her sternly. The whole room was enveloped with an awkward and heavy silence. It was awkward because Hong Cha-young was still smiling from ear to ear while Vincenzo Cassano’s face was stern. Hong Cha-young liked the way Vincenzo was sitting comfortably on the sofa she personally chose but it was not the right time to admire him because she was currently in a difficult situation.

Well, it was difficult but she’s confident that she can easily solve it. She knows how to find her way out of trouble, especially when it comes to Vincenzo Cassano. She skipped walking towards Vincenzo. He was still silently looking at her, waiting for her explanation. Hong Cha-young put her bag on the sofa and she sat beside him. Vincenzo Cassano moved slightly in order for her to sit. Well, the sofa has a large space but Hong Cha-young chose to sit on his left side; where there was a little space. 

Well, that position was in favor with Hong Cha-young because she's close to him and it will help her to appease his anger. 

It was Saturday morning and Hong Cha-young was alone in Vincenzo Cassano’s office. She just finished reading the important documents of the business of Cassano and now, she was sitting on the royal purple sofa she personally bought, tapping her favorite bunny stick on her lap. She was bored. Bored was an understatement. She was staying for one week in Villa for her safety because Vincenzo had something to take care of and it was dangerous. She sighed when she remembered that it's been 2 years since she came here to Malta. Her life here was fun but she hated those other mafioso who wanted them dead. She hissed when she remembered the Gambino Famiglia.

‘Ha. Serves them right. I should be the one who landed the final blow to them. Tsk. Bastards,’ she thought. She looked around the office and her gaze landed on the car keys on the table of Vincenzo. She suddenly stood up when a sudden idea struck her mind.

She decided to escape and at the same time, pranked Vincenzo Cassano so she left a note saying that she left because she wanted to go back to South Korea. Obviously, she was just kidding but she knows that Vincenzo Cassano takes everything she said seriously.

And now, she ended up with this current situation. She smiled towards Vincenzo and squinted her eyes to add some cuteness. But then, it has no effect on Vincenzo. His face was still void of emotion. Cha-young cleared her throat.

“Darling,” she said. She placed her right hand on Vincenzo’s shoulder. 

Vincenzo Cassano’s hold on the gun’s grip tightened. He still has bloodstains on his hand and he was worried that it might stain the beauty in front of her but he can't just leave her. 

Ah, he should be angry and ask for an explanation. He should ask where Hong Cha-young went even though he clearly told her that she isn't allowed to go outside of the villa.

Hong Cha-young’s right hand went up to his cheek and she cupped his face. 

“Mi dispiace, tesoro,” Hong Cha-young whispered to Vincenzo. He clearly heard it. Her voice was low but sweet; it was alluring and it sounds like she was whispering an invitation to him. 

“You clearly know how to get out of trouble, cara mia,” Vincenzo uttered. He didn't give her the chance to utter a word; he gently grabbed her nape using his left hand and pulled her towards him. His lips met hers and they shared an electrifying kiss. Vincenzo Cassano was still holding the gun in his right hand, afraid that Hong Cha-Young might be stained by the blood. Hong Cha-young caressed his cheek one more time before letting go of him. 

“Yah, Monsieur Vincenzo Cassano. If I’m an assassin, you’ll be lying dead on this sofa right now,” she said and grinned. 

“Sweetie, I’ll surrender myself to you if you're an assassin,” he said. They both softly laughed. Vincenzo Cassano caressed her soft and long hair and he tucked her loose hair behind her ear. 

“Don‘t just go outside without Luca. I was worried sick, Cha-young ah. You know that it’s dangerous to be alone.” He was serious. He’s sure that he will not know what to do if something happens to her. Maybe, he will burn down all of the Famiglia that were opposing them?

At first, he thought that bringing Hong Cha-young to Malta was not a good move. He will just endanger her. If something happens, she will surely lose her freedom because Vincenzo will not let her out of the Villa.

But now that she is here, Vincenzo Cassano was thankful for his decision. He no longer needs to return to South Korea for him to rest in his safe haven. He will just protect her with all his might because she belongs here; she belongs to his side. 

“I‘m sorry for escaping. I was just so bored and I decided to go out on my own even if I know that it's not safe.” Hong Cha-young put her right hand on his lap. 

“I’m also sorry for confining you here. I promise that we will go out after this. We can go to South Korea if you want,” Vincenzo spoke softly. Cha-young sweetly smiled and nodded her head. She looked at Vincenzo's right hand.

“You’re still holding your gun,” she said as her gaze returned to Vincenzo’s face. 

“Hm. I just returned from work. I’ll clean myself afterwards.” Vincenzo Cassano chuckled when Hong Cha-young suddenly hugged him. She rubbed her face on his chest just like a kitten. 

“Yah, Cha-young ah,” Vincenzo rebuked her jokingly when Hong Cha-young sniffed him.

Hong Cha-young looked up and she smiled towards Vincenzo Cassano.

It’s going to be a long night. 

[Vincenzo Fanfiction written by Kei]

“Where are you, Mr. Vincenzo Cassano?” Mr. Ahn placed his right hand on the head rest of his swivel chair. He sadly looked outside of his window, waiting for a miracle to happen.

Waiting for someone who was missing for 5 years. 

“Bonjour!” Chef Toto was smiling widely while welcoming his customers. It was another busy day for him. It's been five years already; after successfully getting back the Geumga Plaza, the tenants were busy with their own life. Their own shop and store became well-known and a lot of people are visiting them. He walked towards the first table; a man wearing a black suit was sitting on the chair and he was busy looking at the menu. Chef Toto cleared his throat before speaking.

“Can I take your order, Sir?” he asked. The man looked up. 

“I‘ll have Truffle Porcini Spaghetti,” the man said. Chef Toto was dazed for a moment. His thoughts went back to the first day when that ‘man’ ate in his restaurant. He also ordered Truffle Porcini Spaghetti. Unfortunately he didn't like the taste even though Toto knew that it was delicious. Chef Toto took his complaint as a compliment. It was better that way. 

“Sir?” Chef Toto snapped back to reality.

“Ah. Si—Si,” he smiled.

Inside the Jipuragi Law Firm, loud zumba music can be heard. Mr. Nam was standing in front of the door of the firm, his hands on his hips. He really doesn't understand girls. They kept on doing weird things that no one could understand. And now, Hong Cha-young locked the door and loudly played zumba music. He couldn't enter the room so he decided to go to Mr. Tak.

Inside the Jipuragi Law Firm, Hong Cha-Young was standing beside her table while holding her bunny stick. She was still surprised by what she saw. She even paid no mind to the loud Zumba music playing. 

“Yah, how did you get in here?” she asked the man standing in front of her. But the man was just staring at her, a clear admiration can be seen in his eyes. Hong Cha-young hissed and she nudged his cheek using her bunny stick. 

“Don’t just stare at me. Answer my question, Monsieur Cassano,” she said. Vincenzo smiled.

“It’s French, Miss Hong Cha-young,” he corrected her. Vincenzo was wearing a black baseball cap, a red jacket and black pants. He was wearing a black mask earlier but he removed it. Now that Cha-young analyzed his appearance, she realized that his jacket was the same as the delivery man who always delivered the pizza they ordered. She looked at the center table and she saw a box of pizza. She smiled and looked at Vincenzo.

“Well, I never thought that they would not recognize you. They missed you badly so I thought that even if you wear a disguise, they will still know that it's you. Come on, I can recognize you even if my eyes are closed,” Cha-young said and she smirked. It was a bit exaggerated but well, she can really recognize Vincenzo Cassano even though the latter is in disguise. Vincenzo chuckled. 

“Really? You can recognize me even if your eyes are close?” he asked. Hong Cha-young said a lot but it seems like Vincenzo only heard the last sentence. 

When she saw someone sitting on her chair, she was nervous at first. Who wouldn't be nervous? The first thing you see in the morning is an intruder in your office. She was about to scream but when the person sitting on her chair looked at her, she immediately recognized him even though he was still wearing the black mask. Due to reflexes, Hong Cha-young locked the door and decided to loudly play music. Well, she never expected that Zumba music would play but she didn’t care about it. The important thing is no one should enter the room. The person sitting on her chair stood up and he removed his mask. Hong Cha-young walked towards him and that's how they ended up in their current position. They were just staring at each other while smiling, they were already happy because they were in each other's presence. 

“Why did you come here? You know, it's still dangerous. There are—”

“I miss you, Hong Cha-young,” Vincenzo Cassano interjected. Hong Cha-young blinked. She couldn't believe what she had heard. After five years, Vincenzo Cassano was able to tell her that he missed her. She smiled mischievously.

“Yah—Yah. Really?” Her eyes widen and she dramatically covers her mouth. She lightly punched Vincenzo’s shoulder. “ You're getting good. Where did you learn that? Hm?” she asked.

Vincenzo Cassano sighed and he held her right hand that punched his shoulder. 

“Why don't you believe me when I tell you that I missed you?” Vincenzo Cassano asked, in a low husky voice.

It's been five years. Whenever Hong Cha-young says “I miss you,” Vincenzo Cassano always replies “Me too.” Whenever they meet in the art gallery every year, it's always their routine. They checked on each other, updated each other and uhh—kissed each other, and after that Vincenzo had to go back to Malta. Hong Cha-young will stand far away from him, watching him go inside the plane. They will look at each other; Hong Cha-young always giving a small smile and encouraging nods to Vincenzo Cassano. For five years, that’s what they do whenever they meet each other. 

Hong Cha-young never gets tired of their situation. Every year, she is very excited to meet Vincenzo. She’s willing to wait but now, she thinks that she needs to rest.

She never gets tired but their situation is really tiring. They can just meet once a year. Heck, their meeting never lasts for a day! 

For five years, Hong Cha-young never believed him whenever he said that he missed her too. Not that she doesn't believe him but she just wanted him to do something to prove that he really missed her. And that will always end up with a long passionate kiss. But not now. 

Hong Cha-young wanted to tell him to stay. She wanted to be selfish and stopped him from going back to Malta. She wanted him to live with her happily in South Korea. They can even live in the countryside to hide Vincenzo Cassano’s identity.  But she knows that Vincenzo’s life is in Malta. And she has her own life in South Korea. She will never demand anything from Vincenzo Cassano because she wants him to do the things that will make him live his life without regrets. So, Hong Cha-young was willing to wait but then she also needed to rest.

“How did you sneak into the country? I mean it's still May and the yearly diplomatic celebration is in June. Mr. Cassano, you know you have to keep yourself safe,” she said. She felt a tingling sensation on her right hand; the hand that was held by Vincenzo. It was warm and the way he held her hand was so soft and comfortable. Her heart was beating faster than usual. She smiled in her mind when she remembered something. Well, she thinks that she doesn't need to test her feelings now unlike before. 

“Hm. I’m bored so I decided to come here. I pulled some strings in order for me to get here,” he said and his lips curved into a sly smile.

“Woah. Being a Mafiiiiyaaa Godfaaaaaaather—” she exaggeratedly pronounced the Mafia Godfather, “is awesome.” She shook her head in disbelief. 

“Shhh someone might hear you,” Vincenzo jokingly said. They looked at each other and they both laughed softly. Maybe, they were in their own world because they didn't mind the loud Zumba music playing in the background. They just silently stare at each other, letting their eyes talk and also taking the opportunity to memorize each other's faces. 

“Cha-young ah,” Vincenzo called her. He let go of her hand. Cha-young was unwilling to let go but she had to, in order to preserve her dignity. But the next thing that Vincenzo did surprised her. Vincenzo leaned towards her and he embraced her. It was a warm and protective hug. Hong Cha-young was taken aback for a moment but after a second, she hugged him back and she leaned her head on his shoulder. Their bodies were a perfect fit for each other; it was like they were made for each other. 

“I want to invite you to my island,” he whispered. Hong Cha-young bit her lower lip because his breath tickled her ear. She slightly tapped his back. She heard him chuckling.

“The room I've set aside for you is always ready, Cha-young ah. You always held a place on my island.” She hopes that he will not hear the loud beating of her heart. She blinked her eyes; stopping herself from shedding tears.

It was better than I love you. 

But then, she remembered that she needed to rest.

Vincenzo Cassano was hugging Hong Cha-young tightly. He closed his eyes for a moment because of the overwhelming emotions he felt when he embraced her. Her arms felt like home. Her embrace was Vincenzo Cassano’s safe haven. For him, it was the safest place in the world. He opened his eyes when he felt that she hugged him back. 

One of the Italian Mafia Famiglia was waging a war on Cassano Famiglia. It was the first time in five years but Vincenzo had control over the situation. But then, when he discovered that their enemy sent someone in Korea to look for his weakness, he was immediately enraged. He ordered Luca to get rid of any trace of him in South Korea but it was too late. The enemy already had the upper hand when they knew about a certain lawyer named Hong Cha-young. Vincenzo Cassano immediately made a plan and he flew back to Korea without hesitation. He’s going to protect his safe haven. 

So where's the safest place when there's danger? Of course, the safest place is by his side. Hiding Hong Cha-young is no use because they already know her. They even sent someone to follow her but Vincenzo already got rid of him. And now, Vincenzo is sure that he can protect her if she stays with him. Thankfully, the Geumga tenants were not targeted because they were not useful to the opponent Famiglia. They only need Cha-young to defeat the invincible Caporegime of Cassano Famiglia.

Unfortunately, they can't defeat him. They can not outsmart him.

He came back to reality when he heard a sniffing sound. His eyes widened when Hong Cha-young let go of him and he saw a solemn tear rolled down on her cheek; her expression looked calm but she kept on sniffing. 

“Cha-young—”

“Mr. Cassano, it's been five years,” her voice was shaky due to stifled sob. She cleared her throat and sighed, “I—I always wait for you and I am thrilled whenever the month of June comes because it means that I can see you again. It was a yearly routine and I want you to know that I will never get tired of it,” she said. She looked at him with dejected eyes. He can't react; the way she looked at him made him downhearted. 

“Vincenzo.”

He was afraid of her next words. He came here to protect her but it seems like he was the one who hurt her. He felt like someone was squeezing his heart; it was suffocating.

“I badly needed to rest,” she finally said.

Vincenzo Cassano held his breath. He looked at her straight in her eyes; figuring if what she said was true. Her eyes were empty of emotions. 

He can't breathe.

She wanted to stop. She’s tired. She was thrilled but she was also tired. Vincenzo can't blame her. Their setup was really tiring and he never gave reassurance to her. And now, when he finally decided to take her with him, it was too late.

Should he just focus on his duties as the Mafia Boss of Cassano Famiglia?

“I‘m sorry—”

For the second time, his eyes widened due to shock. Hong Cha-young pulled him and her lips met his. 

His eyes were still open when Hong Cha-young let go of him. It seems like he needs a doctor because he was still in shock. Hong Cha-young was grinning like a Cheshire cat. Song Joong Ki blinked his eyes, unable to process what he had just seen. He was sure that he saw Hong Cha-young crying but now, the woman kissed her and grinning while slyly looking at her.

“My acting improved, right?” She laughed evilly. Just take note that her hands were still on his neck so they were so close to each other. “Well,” she smiled, “I always practiced acting because I always use it whenever I need to convince someone,” she hummed, “I’m stopping myself from laughing when I saw your reaction earlier. Ah, it was such a waste I was not able to record it,” she said. Vincenzo Cassano chuckled. He never thought that Hong Cha-young’s acting skills would improve. 

“You were shocked, weren't you?” She slightly pouted her lips, “Monsieur Vincenzo Cassano, I badly wanted to rest. Can I rest on your arms?” she asked.

Vincenzo Cassano leaned towards her. He smiled at her. He slowly slides his hands across her body and then he rests his one hand on her cheek giving Cha-young butterflies on her stomach. Vincenzo’s face was getting closer and both of their hearts skipped a beat when his lips met hers.

And they ended up with a passionate and earth-shattering kiss.

(A Crossover Fanfiction—Vincenzo×HongCha-Young×YooShi-jin)

“Yoo Shi-jin. A captain of South Korean Special Forces?” Vincenzo read the information Luca gave to him.

“Sì, capo. He keeps on lurking around the Geumga Plaza. We often saw him talking with Ms. Hong Cha-young,” Luca said. Vincenzo Cassano, the Caporegime of Cassano Famiglia, put down the folder he was holding on the glass center table. He was lost in thoughts for a moment and Luca did not say a word. When seconds turned into minutes, Luca decided to say something in order to bring back his capo to reality. It was a rare sight, Vincenzo Cassano, staring blankly at the space.

“Should we—” Vincenzo looked at Luca. Luca made a gun hand gesture and he pointed  it on his forehead. Vincenzo shook his head.

“No. It’s not a good idea,” he said. Vincenzo held his Zippo while Luca was looking at him, the poor man was confused. 

‘Killing him is a bad idea, he’s part of the Special Forces. It will surely cause a lot of problems,’ he thought. He started to flicker his Zippo; the sound made him concentrate and help him to think calmly. It was so comforting, the flicking soothes his lost mind and soul. His mind wandered towards the person who held a room on his island; and also held a place in his heart.

Hong Cha-young was sitting on a chair, her leg-crossed and she kept on tapping her bunny stick on the table. The uneasy and awkward silence is bothering her; she can clearly hear the ticking of the clock, the tapping sound of her bunny stick and—

She glared in the direction of Mr. Nam.

—The flicking of the lighter.

Mr. Nam was busy flicking his lighter that was given to him by a certain someone. It was a gift of gratitude for—Cha-young scowled when she remembered the reason—it was a gift of gratitude for keeping an eye on her. It was an unnecessary thing. Keeping an eye on her? Who does he think he is?

“Aish—Really—” She hasn't seen him for one year and he’s really bothering her. Should she punish him for what he had done? Wait—Did he do something wrong?

Her sentiment was interrupted when she heard a loud clearing of the throat. It was meant to pick someone's attention—and Cha-young looked at the person in front of her. 

Yoo Shi-jin. 

Yoo Shi-jin cleared his throat again and he smiled when Cha-young looked at him. Cha-young was immediately annoyed. This man in front of her was the cause of her anger, her hatred, her loneliness, her sadne—well, the truth is Yoo Shi-jin was the reason why she’s not in a mood for a week. He met the man in a restaurant a week ago; it was raining really hard and she forgot to bring an umbrella. It was already late and she had to go home. Yoo Shi-jin was also in the same restaurant and he offered his umbrella to her. Cha-young immediately accepted his offer but she regretted it afterwards. It was like Yoo Shi-jin had a hidden agenda; she felt like the man was kinda suspicious. And her suspicion was confirmed when Mr. Nam did some background check on the guy; Yoo Shi-jin is the captain of South Korean Special Forces. It seems like he wanted to know something from Cha-young so he decided to approach her and get to know her slowly.

And now, it's already one week after that incident; Yoo Shi-jin keeps on visiting Cha-young in Geumga Plaza. The tenants were also suspicious about the man and they don't like him visiting the Plaza but they can't do anything about it because Yoo Shi-jin was a stubborn man. All they could do was to send glares towards him. 

Yoo Shi-jin just answered their glares with a boyish smile. Truth to be told, the tenants can't harm him because he reminds them of someone; a certain someone who taught them how to fight; a certain someone who taught them to stand on their own. Cha-young also told them that they don't need to do anything because she can handle the troublemaker soldier.

Or not.

When Cha-young’s attention was on Mr. Nam, Yoo Shi-jin decided to look around. His attention was caught by the postcards on the wall. His forehead creased when he saw that all of the postcards were the same; a picture of an island. Should he take a picture of it? He felt like it was something important so—his gaze turned to Cha-young when he heard her snarling on herself. His lips automatically formed into a smile. Her little sentiment with herself was so funny and he enjoyed watching her being dramatic. He enjoyed annoying her because her facial expressions were so cute. It was a refreshing sight. He cleared his throat in order to get her attention and he did not fail. He smiled boyishly when she looked at him.

“What are you doing here, Mr. Yoo Shi-jin?” Cha-young asked. Yoo Shi-jin looked at her disappointedly and he slightly pouted his lips. It looks like he was sulking. And then, she heard him sigh.

“Cha-young, I thought we’re friends already? I’m visiting you for a week and you're still calling me formally,” he said. 

“If you don't have any business with me, please leave,” Cha-young politely said. 

Yoo Shi-jin never thought that it's difficult to break Cha-young’s wall. He approached her because he was curious about something; he stumbled upon a case that was already closed but it was not solved. It was about the death of the chairman of Babel, a lawyer from Wusang and the CEO of Wusang. After their death, their crime was revealed. The person who killed them was named Mr. V but until now, he’s still not found. He was curious because the three people that were killed were known people in the society but it seems like their case was not important. He did some digging and he discovered that the NIS pulled some strings in order for the case to be closed even though the murderer is not yet caught. Someone told him that he should not stick his nose in others ' business but having a little fun and adventure is not bad, is it? He also discovered that Cha-young was involved with Babel and Wusang once. And Yoo Shi-jin is 95% sure that Cha-young knew the person who murdered the three important corrupt figures. 

“Do you want to have dinner with me? My treat,” he offered. 

He was curious about the case but after meeting the person in front of him, he is more curious about her now. He wants to know her more; for him to be enlightened about the case and also to break her unbreakable walls. 

Cha-young was speechless. She was shocked and in awe because of how brazen Yoo Shi-jin’s attitude is. Sure, this man has a resemblance to a certain man who is currently in Malta right now; enjoying the majestic view of the sea but they have differences in attitude, in presence, in aura; and well a little bit of similarity also. Cha-young put the bunny stick down and she leaned on the table. Yoo Shi-jin was also looking at her, his gaze was steady and he was not blinking. Cha-young smirked.

“Hm. Let’s eat something spicy, should we?” she asked. 

They stared at each other, unblinking. It looks like they have a secret competition where they have to stare at each other and the first person to blink will lose the game. 

Their lips were formed into a small playful smile. A tension was building around them—their only background was the flicking sound of a lighter; it was steady at first but the flicking sound became sloppy as seconds passed by. It seems like the person who’s flicking the lighter was nervous and uneasy of what's currently happening.

“Hm. Shall we, Cha-young ah?” 

Cha-young gulped. She’s annoyed and at the same time nervous. What if someone came in and that someone is—she erased that thought in her mind. 

“Sure, Shi-jin-ah. Set the time and day,” she answered. 

The flicking of the lighter stopped.

The truth is Cha-young already noticed what Yoo Shi-jin is up to. He is looking for Vincenzo Cassano. She noticed him looking multiple times at the post cards and how his forehead creased. He was curious about something or rather, to someone. 

Cha-young was bored so why not enjoy and have fun?