One Thing Right Chapter 19 | Wenrene

One Thing Right

Chapter 19

"Life" 

"Will you marry me?"

Those were words Wendy did not imagine she will ask in a small span of time from when she told her sister that she wasn't ready yet. Truly, the thought of marriage stayed in her mind even after her conversation with her sister. 

It's undeniable that she loves Irene dearly and as much as she could, she wanted to make efforts in expressing that to her everyday. However, Wendy was aware that she still has many flaws, mainly evident when she's going through severe depressive episodes. Despite her medication and willpower to act like nothing's going on inside her head, it's still inevitable to get overwhelmed by it and get tired at times too. So when this happens, Wendy pauses, rest and regain her composure away from people including Irene. By now, she has learned how to both disconnect and then reconnect with people after it unlike before which she only shut everyone away for good. The progress was there but sometimes she felt bad for leaving Irene alone in those times.

Even if Irene always welcomes her with open arms, as if nothing happened, Wendy still couldn't ignore the fear building up that Irene might be feeling abandoned during those times. She had asked her about it twice and Irene assured her that it was all okay, she even does her thing of playfully sealing her words with a kiss. That worked always, but still... Wendy remained anxious. So when Mina's support came and brought an idea about marriage, she thought that it was an opportunity for her to give Irene an assurance too that she's not going to abandon her. That even if a depressive comes along, and if ever she needed more time alone, there's something Irene could hold on to, to assure her that she couldn't say often in words.

Wendy had been thinking that Irene might have thoughts like Joy before. How she's also living in uncertainty because of her. 

Other than that, Wendy thought that it'll be an assurance for herself too, that Irene won't leave her even if Bogum portrays his role in the baby's life. It's not like she doesn't trust Irene, she really does, but sometimes during her uncontrollable depressive episodes, this thought instantly becomes the center of her negativity. So perhaps this marriage could help her cope up better.

Lost in her own thoughts again, it was when Irene's hand reached out to caress her face that brought her back to her right senses. As usual, with just one touch from Irene, her mind was tamed. 

When Wendy finally observed Irene's reaction to her proposal, she was smiling and was giving her the same loving gaze like the usual. Wendy was a bit disappointed, she read it like her proposal was something insignificant to her.

"Am I rejected?" Wendy asked, frowning. Her confusion arose when Irene ended up chuckling.

Irene continously carresses Wendy's face in silence with now both hands, admiring every part of her face. She bit her own lip as her touches, with slight pressure applied, glided through Wendy's arms till she reached her hands and intertwined them. Unbeknownst to what's inside Irene's mind, Wendy deciphered the silent treatment as rejection.

Just when Irene was about to say something, Joy and Seulgi arrived with the car. 

"Let's go ladies. We're going home!" Joy enthusiastically invited from the driver's seat. 

Before Wendy could demand for a clear answer, Irene took her by the hand excitedly and entered the car. And that's how Wendy's proposal had ended. 

---

When they arrived at their apartment building, Irene requested Joy to unpack her things for her with Seulgi in their unit and she'll wait and rest at Wendy's unit instead. The three were all suprised at the request and Wendy even volunteered for her to do it instead, but Irene refused. Before Joy could even protest, Irene dragged Wendy again by the hand but this time to enter her unit.

Irene locked the door behind them once they were inside and immediately grabbed Wendy's face and pulled her into a passionate kiss. Wendy was shocked with the sudden intimacy but easily got into the moment when the situation heated up between their touches. Irene lead their bodies closer as they kissed with her arms around Wendy's neck while Wendy automatically placed her hands behind Irene's waist. At this point, they couldn't spare a small distance between them to exist. It's been a while they had a time alone so the need to feel each other intensified that they, especially Irene, could not hold back any longer. Their hands dangerously travelled their bodies putting more fuel to their burning desires. Irene then suddenly transferred her kisses to Wendy's neck earning a moan that drives the older crazier.

After like a minute, they pulled out from the kiss to catch up some air but their foreheads still leaning onto each other, savoring the warmth that spread through their own bodies. Their hearts pumping wild making them lightheaded but instead of diving in for more, they chose to only snuggled back closer to feel each other's comfortable warmth. It's certain that the desire to go past their usual level of intimacy has tripled, they're like walking a thread. But still, out of respect to their agreement to take things slow, they painfully stopped themselves before they get fully blinded by their desires for feeling each other. 

It was Irene who broke the silence first after she sighed deeply. "I'm sorry. I just... couldn't help it. The marriage proposal drove me into this, I was overwhelmed by my feelings for you." She smiled and nuzzled to the crook of Wendy's neck. 

"It's okay. I thought you turned down my proposal but what we did kind of tells me otherwise?" Wendy smiled weakly a bit downheartened at the mention of rejection. 

"There's no way I would turn you down!" 

Wendy nodded but still displayed a frown on her face. Irene wanted to erase that frown and so she did what has to be done and placed a peck on Wendy's enticing lips. 

"I was holding back myself to kiss you there and then. Your proposal came out of nowhere, and we're in public, a hospital even! So when we got home, I just exploded and desired for your warmth and show you how much I love you." She explained herself like she's about to lose her mind. She took deep breaths to calm herself but the tears started coming out from her eyes now. This day was like a roller coaster ride of her emotions.

"Why are you crying?" Wendy got teary eyed as well watching her.

"Because I'm so happy. You proposing is like...a dream. I don't know how to  react properly, I can't explain. I want to laugh because I'm overjoyed but I also want to cry out of happiness... everything's mixing up!"

"So... Is that a yes?" Wendy had to know the direct and clear answer or her mind won't free her.

"Of course it's a yes!"

Wendy was in disbelief, she even took a step back to process everything. Just like Irene, she's also lost for words to explain the overwhelming mixed up emotions she's feeling.

"Yes... as in you're marrying me, right?" She asked again, slowly and completed her words this time, just to make sure Irene's not mistaken.

Irene giggled at the sight, Wendy surely is the most adorable person she has seen in her life. It makes her heart melt. "Yes. I'll be marrying you, Wendy."

"W-why?" That question came out before Wendy could even think. Her insecurties surfacing at this crucial moment. She just couldn't think straight at all, but thanks to it, Irene got provoked to prove herself as to why she agreed on marrying her. 

"Because I want to grow old with you, loving you till the very end. I want to spend the rest of my life with you and do things together no matter how small they are. Because if it's you, whatever we do, all of it will be special." Irene responded with all honesty.

Wendy's tears fell down but she's not over yet with her questions. "Irene will become my wife?" She tried once again but this time talking to herself. 

"Yes. I'll be your wife and you're my baby's mommy too." Irene took Wendy's trembling hand and placed it on her stomach. 

And that's when Wendy felt the realness of what's happening, she brought Irene in a tight embrace like her life depended on her. "I can't believe it. I'm so lucky to have you and you'll even become my wife. This is surreal." 

Irene no longer said anything to that. She just did her best to to savor and instill this adorable and heart melting moment to her memories as clear as possible.

Wendy then remembers the most important token that's needed in this proposal and it was the ring. Of course, she doesn't have it, she didn't expect to propose on this day after all. So right now, she has to only rely on her creativity. She took out a pen from her pocket and asked for Irene's hand. 

Irene read her mind and cackled at the silly idea. She gave her hand anyway.

"I honestly am only going to ask for you to move in with me but this is way better. I not only gained a roommate, I also gained a wife." Wendy was smiling from ear to ear as she drew a ring on Irene's ring finger.

"I love your spontaneity, Wendy. I guess, our life together will be full of surprises." 

"Of course, I will not make you regret your decision in marrying me. There! It's done!" 

"It's the most beautiful ring, Wendy. I love it." 

"Don't convince me that you really love it, I might not replace it with the real thing anymore." Wendy remarked and both of them cracked up at their own silliness.

They stopped for a while and admired each other through their gazes. Without saying anything, their eyes tell how much they are madly in love with each other.

"Kiss me slowly." Irene, already dazed, led her closer and Wendy didn't think twice and fulfilled her wish.

---

After a week from the marriage proposal, Wendy and Irene started living together. They both agreed to push back their wedding only after Irene successfully delivers her baby and after they fully adjusted being a mother. This was Wendy's original plan anyway so it doesn't hurt to postpone the event for a little longer.

Wendy was so thankful for Irene's patience and understanding. Irene has been constantly expressing how much she loves her everyday with both actions and words since when she confessed the reason behind her sudden proposal. Irene accepted it and also explained to her that it's okay to have private moments to settle things in their minds, so she didn't really felt abandoned at all. In the end, it was all in Wendy's mind and so Irene reminded her again to tell her everything that's troubling her so she could help. 

There were only 2 bedrooms in Wendy's unit and since one of them was Joy's, Wendy asked Irene to share the bedroom with her. Wendy had a hard time conveying that idea to Irene with how she jumbled up her words and dips into endless stutters. The older woman agreed eventually after blushing furiously as her imagination went wild and also after giggling at Wendy's endearing bashfulness.

It's not like it would be Irene's first time on her bed, the woman several times invited herself for a sleep over before this moving in together happened. Irene had always told her that she misses her everytime, so with that she couldn't refuse. Seulgi secretly told her about pregnancy cravings when she already noticed Irene's behaviour changing. Wendy denied the assumption at first but it's slowly becoming obvious now that they're together as day passed by. 

That's beyond Wendy's expectations and research of pregnancy cravings, she thought they would be centered only to foods, drinks, etc. But to crave over a person? Does that mean....

Wendy shook her head before a naughty idea fully formed in her mind. The heated moment between her and Irene the previous week was still fresh and crystal clear to her mind and that's why this moving in together kind of gave a reason to be nervous about.

"Why are you so nervous about sharing a room? It's not like both of you can make another baby! Relax!" Joy pointed out without brakes as she put a whole strawberry in her mouth, while Seulgi and Irene laughed at her silliness. Like the usual, they all gather for a meal at Wendy's place.

"H-how.. what are you... that's not it!" Wendy jumbled up her words denying the allegations.

"Just free yourselves and go wild, I'll just put on earphones everytime and pretend nothing's happening around me." Joy said nonchalantly which made Seulgi's laugh louder and Irene's face went bright red. Wendy, too, displayed such features but still did her best to change the topic. She really can't put up with the boldness of this young lady.

"I-I asked to do work from home from my boss. So I'll be around everytime, Irene. You can ask me what you want to eat, drink or just anything and I'll give it all to you." Wendy announced earning Joy and Seulgi's applause for her dedication while Irene smiled at her appreciatively. She's moved by Wendy's kind actions towards her, she felt so special.

"Then that means more smexy time!!" Joy didn't budge and Wendy couldn't hold back her rage any longer and playfully put several strawberries in her mouth.

"Aren't you hungry? Here, you can eat all these. I bought it all for you." She said which made the bestfriends come back to laughing.

Seulgi and Joy's relationship on the other hand went slowly as well. They were taking time to get to know each other really well before getting into a serious relationship. They honestly both admire Wendy and Irene, with how they both take care and understand each other, they are their role model in being in love. Someday, they wanted a real love like that and hopefully they will find that in each other.

Wendy's medication continued on still under Eric as the head psychiatrist and Rose as her psychologist like the usual. Rose took the fault of not guarding her medical records as secured as possible but Wendy brushed it off telling her that their family really has their ways to get what they wanted so she's insisting that it's not her fault. After talking about it, their routine continued on very well like nothing happened. Sometimes, Mina's dropping by Rose' office to meet up with Wendy as well. Wendy had seen the real closeness of the two, she even saw Rose scolding her stubborn sister in front of her. They were really funny at that time. 

Wendy's condition was really showing improvement so Eric and Rose lessen her teraphy sessions and doses of her medicines which made the people around her rejoiced. Wendy couldn't believe it's happening. It's all thanks to the people around her, it's because of them she's getting better and closer to being fully healed. 

Irene, Joy, Seulgi and even Mina were all there to witness the good news. Eric told Wendy beforehand to bring the people that helped her out through her journey so she invited all of them. At first, Wendy was confused about the sudden invitation, but it all turned out well in the end especially how everyone were all pleased by the good news declared by the doctors. It's because of all of them the full recovery that she thought was impossible at the beginning became possible. 

"Congratulations, Wendy. All of these people were the ones that helped you through the whole process but do you know who helped you the most?" Rose started and everyone was watching the two's interaction on the side.

Wendy shakes her head. "You and Eric?" She replied and everyone was holding back their emotional selves from crying loudly, especially Joy and Irene, because they're aware of the obvious answer.

"That's flattering us if you think that way. But no, it's not us." Rose smiled as she spoke in her usual soft voice while Eric's getting carried away with the joy he's feeling. Wendy's still a friend to him before she became his patient anyways.

When Wendy couldn't point it out, that's when Rose answered for her. "It's you, Wendy. You did it. You're the one who helped yourself the most."

Hearing that, Wendy's tears started pouring endlessly. She eventually had her breakdown upon realizing what was said and brought her arms around her body as if she was embracing herself. It was her reaction because she realized how she was always forgetting about herself out of bad habit, when it's true that the one who helped her the most was herself. Her progress was a testament of how much she had suffered but still fought, she's indeed worthy of praise and not worthy to be forgotten.

As if the gate of her memories opened, she remembered how awful she had treated herself before, how she sacrificed and betrayed herself to conform to everyone's standards, how she cried every night for feeling less, different and weak, how she wanted and prayed to become someone else she's not. She abused herself to its limit that brought to her own destruction, it was all her fault and yet... still at the end, she has fought to live, to exist and find the love and happiness she deserved. 

"It's true that everyone around us affects us. It's thanks to these people around you now, who loved you unconditionally and even reached out to support you, they gave you hope and helped change the way you perceived the world. They are indeed worthy of gratitude and praise, but never ever forget to credit yourself for doing a job well done for your betterment. At the end of the day, you are doing yourself a favor, you deserve praise for what you worked hard for." Rose gave her final comments that not only made Wendy hug herself even tighter but tugged also the heartstrings of everyone inside the room.

"One last thing, Wendy." Rose continued. "If these wonderful people around you now could love you unconditionally, then I think, there's no way you can't do the same to yourself." 

---

Irene is now on her 8th month of pregnancy. Time flew by really fast, but this time, Wendy has no regrets how those days were spent. Unlike before, she lived those days with a different perspective and self love. That and having surrounded by people who loves her and supports her, Wendy felt like she's living in a whole new and beautiful world. It's filled with love and happiness that's lacking before. She just enjoy every seconds of everyday, most especially when Irene makes her feel like she's the luckiest person in the world.

To have Irene as her lover, she takes pride of it. And everyday she strive to express how much she's loved by her as well. Lately, loving Irene felt like the easiest thing to do. Her affection for her grew bigger the more she get to know her deeply. Wendy loves her and accepts her wholly. Every discovery about her was like a treasure that elates her everytime. From head to toe, her personality and attitude, her habits and hobbies, her way of thinking and speaking, her warmth, her scent, even her way of breathing, Wendy loves everything about her. Even the Irene with her mood swings, Wendy embraced all of it and gave her the understanding, patience, attention and love that she needed.

During Irene's 4th month of pregnancy

Wendy and Irene were both in the living room one sunny afternoon. Wendy was working on her laptop for the plans due next week while Irene was scanning a latest issue of a fashion magazine which she was the cover. The photoshoot was from the previous month but was published only recently. Like the usual, only the two of them were left in the unit since Joy started working in Seoul too. Wendy asked Mina to give Joy something to do and easily gave her managerial position in their head office.

It was a peaceful afternoon, like how they usually spend it. Wendy and Irene's relationship had been going smoothly and everyday were all special to them. They attend to each other's needs openly and talked it out when problems, even the smallest one, arises in order to avoid unncessary clashes. 

Wendy saw the clock turned 3, that was her cue to stop whatever she's doing to make some healthy snack for her girlfriend. A piece of bread and fruit juices never a let down. She then turned around to Irene only to see her... weeping. 

"What happened?" Wendy immediately approached her. "Does it hurt? Is the baby coming out?! Should I call a doctor. Wait, yeah, I will a doctor!" She panicked and was about to call when Irene hugged her. 

"Will you still love me even if I'm not as beautiful and slim like in this magazine?" She asked innocently and Wendy was taken aback. 

Wendy examined the magazine that Irene was scanning earlier and finally understood where she's coming from. "But you're always beautiful to me Irene. It will never change." She settled on the sofa with Irene, wiped her tears and gave her a kiss starting on her forhead to her eyes, nose and finally, to her lips. 

Irene has finally calmed down. "Really?" 

"Of course."

"Even if my belly's big? Even if I gained wrinkles and stretch marks? You'll still find me beautiful?" 

"Yes. I'm marrying you, the most beautiful girl in the world, my Irene. I cannot ask for more." She kissed the back of her hand and finally, Irene beamed.

"Have I told you you're greasy?"

"Only for you." Wendy winked and Irene giggled finally gaining her confidence back.

"By the way Wendy."

"Hmm?"

"Babies don't come out on the 4th month." 

During Irene's 5th month of pregnancy and gender ultrasound 

Wendy was holding onto Irene's hand tightly as the device check for the baby. Irene went back to her original OB/Gyne doctor Taeyeon and Mina respected their decision. They had regularly visited Taeyeon's clinic for Irene's scheduled check ups.

"I think Wendy's more excited than you about the gender, huh." Taeyeon whispered to Irene. Wendy was too absorbed with the baby's movement on the ultrasound screen.

"I don't really mind what my baby's gender will be, I will love it unconditionally." Irene responded, smiling while she glance at Wendy.

"Wendy, what do you think is the baby's gender?" Taeyeon played along with the super excited mommy. Her reactions were so pure that she couldn't help but tease her a bit. 

"I'm actually expecting a baby girl." Wendy said without hesitation.

"Oh, why a girl?" 

"Because I want to see little Irene, I think that's so cute." Wendy giggled making both Taeyeon and Irene laugh. 

"Irene's little minion, how cute." Taeyeon commented and Irene rolled her eyes. 

"But even if it's a boy, it's okay with me. I'll love and take care of it, since it's Irene's child." Wendy said with a genuine smile and Irene skipped a beat at the sight. She gripped Wendy's hand tightly, and mouthed 'I love you' when Wendy turned to her.

"Congratulations!" 

Wendy and Irene aniticpated....

--- 

"It's a girl!!!" Wendy and Irene announced at the gender reveal party they set up for their friends. They did a small gathering with 4 of them present plus Mina who dragged Rose along with her. Pink confettis scattered on the floor indicating the gender of their baby. 

"So now that it's a girl, what will be the name?" Seulgi asked as she chomped down a huge slice of cake. Joy looked at her incredulously. 

"We haven't finalize yet her name but soon we will." Irene said clinging onto Wendy. 

"Are you not feeling well?" Wendy asked worriedly. "You shouldn't push yourself too hard. Go take a rest, the main event is now over. I'll take it from here." 

The changes in Irene's body were all undeniable from her physical built to her moods and health. Lately, Irene was becoming more sleepy. It concerned Wendy at first since, to her, sleeping has been her escape from the world during her darkest moments. So Wendy asked Taeyeon if this was normal and the doctor explained it was. According to her, since Irene was developing a baby inside her, her body worked a lot to protect and nurture the baby which causes her sleepiness. Taeyeon then reminded her about changes in hormones too. How it changes Irene's mood from time to time. Wendy listened attentively to the details since she's experiencing this a lot now. She wanted to be the best suppport that Irene needed during this special moment of her life.

"But I want you close to me." Irene spoke which snapped Wendy out of her reverie.

"Okay, then let's leave together and take a rest." She then turned to the others and excused themselves. All of them were very understanding, Irene and baby's health come first. 

Irene and Wendy were at their shared bedroom, under the thick sheets of their blankets, cuddling. Irene's head lying onto Wendy's left shoulder and the latter held her preciously. 

"Sorry, I always ruin these happy get togethers with our friends." Irene mumbled as she succumb more to Wendy's embrace.

Wendy placed a kiss on Irene's crown and set her cheeks on it after. She held Irene even closer and brushed her back softly.

"You've never ruined anything, Irene. In fact, you made everything so much better. Our friends always look out for you, they wanted to spend time with you but they are also concerned with your health. I'm sure they are all pleased of you taking care of yourself and the baby well."

Irene didn't say anything, she wasn't sleeping yet, she just realized how Wendy was so good with her words that it calms her everytime. Her scent and warmth give her so much peace too, that's why she always have the urge to cling to her, embrace her, need her. She's certain, the baby liked it so much to. Her body ceased to feel pain and heaviness everytime she's in Wendy's arms. She's thankful how Wendy gladly grant her needs and even offered everything beforehand. Irene felt so lucky to have Wendy as her partner, she's blessed. 

"How much do you love me, Wendy?" Irene asked and the younger girl did not hesitate to respond. 

"I think it's bigger than the universe. I love you that much!"

Irene giggled at how enthusiastic Wendy sounded with that, it gives her energy everytime.

Irene jolted up, since she's already in a good mood, she remembered raised an exciting news and looked at Wendy to watch her reaction. "Wendy, give our baby a name now."

As expected Wendy's eyes widened like a cartoon. Her lips formed a small circle like the usual too. It never failed to make Irene laugh at her reaction.

"Wait, stop laughing. It's our baby, but it's yours biologically so... I think you should still be the one to give her a name."

"Wendy, we may not be the one who made her biologically, scientifically, whatever, but this child is filled with so much happiness and it's all because of you. I'm sure this child will be a reflection of that and our love and so I want you to give her a name instead." She said carressing her belly.

"A-are you sure?"

"Yes."

"How about, Yerim?"

"Yerim?" 

"Yep, Yeri for short if that makes it shorter, but yeah... Yerim it is."

"Sounds menacing." Irene commented.

"You're right. But I don't know... I just thought of that name out of nowhere and felt like there's a connection or something.. I can't really explain well."

"It has that impact? Maybe she's our baby in the alternate world."

"W-what are you talking about..." Wendy got flushed easily. Of course, how can she not when they are this close to each other... on a bed even.

Irene saw it and she loved it everytime, so she has grown a habit of teasing her a lot. 

"Why? Who knows, it might be possible in that alternate world. Maybe we made lots of children there."

"Y-yah! W-why are you bringing that up. Let's talk about Yerim!"

Irene cackled. "But we're talking about Yerim, our first born. Say, Wendy...let's make more children in this world too!"

Wendy gasped, how in the world... but what she responded next made their situation reversed. "Then let's make love often...maybe the more we do it, it'll be possible one day." 

Irene went timid and instantly glowed, red.

When Wendy saw the reaction, she explained herself quick. "Y-yah! I-I was just joking! There's no way that's possible! I was just riding your joke.. I-." She was not able to finish her sentence when Irene sealed her lips with a kiss.

 

During Irene's 6th month of pregnancy

Wendy was on an emergency meeting, she was summoned by her boss to the office. She obliged to it since she understood the gravity of problem that arose in one of their projects. After 5 hours of intricate coordination meeting, through teamwork, they managed to come up with a solution to apply. They will observe the status again after a week. Overall, Wendy was away from home for 7 hours including the travel back and forth and break in between the meeting.

When she arrived home, around 6pm, she got Irene her recent favorite duck meat to eat together for dinner and some ice cream for dessert too. At this hour, Joy and Seulgi haven't arrived yet from their respective work.

"I'm home!!!" Wendy announced cheerfully and as expected Irene welcomed her to an embrace. 

They sway sideways, showing how pleased Irene was with her arrival. 

"Hmmm.. Wendy, I missed you." She hummed sleepily. It seemed like Irene fell asleep watching netflix, as usual. 

"Oh. Did I wake up my babies?" Wendy said as she carefully lead them both in the kitchen to put the food and things she's carrying, while Irene was still clinging to her tightly. A little heavy but she can manage.

"Uh-huh! I fell asleep waiting for you. I was so sad." She frowned which Wendy played along. 

"Aigoo. I missed you too and this little fighter." She cooed as she broke their embrace and bend down to meet Irene's belly.

"So how's work?" Irene asked after melting at the sight of an adorable Wendy.

"Problem solved!" Wendy boasted earning a chuckle from the other.  

"As expected of my future wife." Irene then rewarded Wendy a peck on the lips which made the latter blush.

"S-shall we eat then? I brought you duck meat from your favorite restaurant!" 

Wendy then saw the sudden change of mood on Irene's face. She pouted again and displayed sadness in her eyes. 

"But I don't want to eat duck meat right now." 

That's definitely shocking for Wendy to hear. "Okaay? So what do you want to eat instead?" 

"I want tteokbokki." She said and Wendy thought she saw her eyes twinkling. It's odd since Irene said she'll stop eating teokkbokki for a while.

"But it's waste if we don't eat this right?" Her eyes went sad again.

"Of course not! I'll share them with Joy and Seulgi once they arrived, it won't be a waste!" Wendy consoled her quick which Irene jolted up excitedly. 

"Then let's have tteokbokki?" 

"Of course. Here, I'm already calling for delivery." Wendy said as she started dialing a restaurant that sells the best tteokbokki. 

"Yay! I'll wait for it! You'll wait for it too right? So we can eat together?" 

"Definitely! Let's eat crackers while we wait. You know, appetizer!" 

"Aw, Wendy. Thank you, I love you so much!" Irene gave her a bear hug and Wendy was over the moon. Surely, making Irene happy was also her happiness.

When the delivery arrived, Joy and Seulgi came with the food since they saw the delivery guy was about to knock on Wendy's door. 

"I got the delivery! Why do we have so many food?" Joy shouted after she saw the meat on the dining table.

Wendy and Irene went to the dining area to eat altogether, and Wendy explained about Irene's recent food cravings. 

"So we'll have the duck meat with rice and the tteokbokki is Irene's, right?" Seulgi asked after they were all seated and foods were served on plate.

"Yup. Correct." Wendy confirmed and so they all finally digged in. 

After the dinner, Irene went sulking at the living area which Wendy quickly attended to while Joy and Seulgi did the dishes.

"Is the tteokbokki that bad?" 

"No."

"Then why are you sad? You know it makes me sad too, right?" Wendy brushes a strand of hair from Irene's face and tucked it behind her ears.

"You promise you won't get mad?" Irene behaved like she was a child and Wendy can't help but smile. 

"Why would I be mad? What is it? Tell me, anything."

"I want duck meat." She said and Wendy was.... blown away.

"I think it's bad to eat that much for dinner, Irene. That tteokbokki was a lot for one serving too. We can have duck meat tomorrow. " She explained and Irene was enraged.

"I'm eating for two people, Wendy. Why don't you bear our child so you would understand?!" 

Wendy gulped. "O-okay. I'll call for delivery!"

"Whipped." Seulgi and Joy commented from the kitchen.

During Irene's 7th month of pregnancy

Irene's belly has grown bigger and some daily activities that she used to do were starting to get more difficult to execute. Since she's on leave and has nothing else to do, she requested Wendy to allow her do the household chores. Wendy at first didn't like the idea, and suggested to do other things like reading books, knitting, watching netflix, drawing and all other stuff. She even offered to pay and enroll her to whatever she wanted to study and suggested cooking but Irene refused all of it. 

Irene wanted to take care of Wendy like a housewife would do, but of course she didn't mentioned that to her. Wendy had been consistently taking care of her, giving her the best attention that any pregnant woman could ever ask for. So to return her efforts, she wanted to do something for her.

Eventually, Wendy allowed her but pointed out that she's the one in charge of the weekends. Irene grinned and just nodded. Since then, she liked washing the dishes, cleaning, but her most favorite was always doing the laundry. As for the cooking, that was certainly Wendy's forte though. Nevertheless, she found satisfaction in all of it and thinking that she's taking care of Wendy at the same time on a daily basis just made it all so special. 

However, as her belly grows bigger everyday, and now on the 7th month, she couldn't move as easy as before and it somehow caused her mental strain that affected her mood. Wendy took over again while doing her work from home, Joy also over the weekends, she still left Irene some light chores to do of course. But that's how Irene became grumpy and sad with how less she can move, she can't even get out bed without the help of Wendy. That's how the feeling of uselessness awakens the pity for herself. 

Wendy noticed how Irene was getting sulky lately, even though she couldn't feel the extent of Irene's difficulty, she could sense how these changes in her body affected her way of thinking. Suddenly she's seen unenergetic and just spend her time alone in their bedroom after doing some light household chores even during the day. Wendy thought she just wanted her privacy, but it's getting too often lately.

That's how Wendy took time off from her work for a week, which she begged to her boss by the way, to focus only on Irene and subtly encouraged her to engage to the things she loved doing again. 

First, Wendy watched Irene do her exercises every morning. She didn't  missed giving her compliments during the process to boost Irene's confidence again. It wasn't difficult to compliment her anyways, because to Wendy, Irene has so many lovable traits to mention.

"How is it possible to look that attractive?" She commented from the sofa, while Irene exercise.

"What are you saying, I'm not attractive anymore." Irene pouted but still do her thing.

"Says who?"

"Says me."

"Then can you explain why my heart's racing watching you? I'm so attracted to you."

Irene stopped exercising and turned to Wendy who was wiggling her eyebrows at her. Wendy instantly summoned the Irene's giggles. 

"Why are you watching me? Aren't you gonna prepare to work?" 

Irene didn't know about her leave so, she had to lie. "Ah, right. My boss went out of the country. So, we're free." 

"And he didn't left any work? That's so inefficient for his company."

Wendy just laughed nervously at the comment, hoping she won't get busted any time soon.

Slowly, Wendy worked on making Irene feel better with her pregnancy. She took out that self pity, hate and helplessness that Irene's feeling by loving her more. She guided Irene to engage with different activities again and discover new things as well by doing all of it together.

"Irene?"

"Hmm?" Irene hummed sleepily on the bed, she wanted to sleep more but Wendy talking was always a sign that a new day has started.

"Which fabric conditioner should I buy in the grocery later? I want to change the one we're using. What do you think?"

Irene groaned, she's an avid fan of fabric conditioners but not to the extent of talking about it first thing in the morning.

"Wendy, let's talk about that later and sleep more please?" She requested as she pull Wendy closer to her.

Wendy turned to her side and faced Irene whose eyes were still closed. Ignored by her, she just carried on with her greetings like the usual. "Good morning, Irene." She kissed her forehead and then got up a bit to meet Irene's belly and do the same gesture. "Good morning, Yerim."

"Your mommy Irene doesn't want to talk to me. What should I do?" She pulled out a voice like a character from cartoons while she talked to the baby.

Wendy saw Irene didn't budge so she just let her sleep in more and just talked to Yerim instead.

"I can't wait for you to come out, Yerim. You will accompany me anywhere, right?" She brushed Irene's belly and continued, "Let's pick the best fabric conditioner for your mommy Irene. It's her favorite."

Wendy then took her pillow and placed it beside Irene's belly and carried on brushing her hand on it softly. "I wonder what traits you got from your mommy but I'll bet my family's fortune that you'll be as pretty as her!"

"You're growing really big, Yerim! That's right, become very healthy. Don't make your mommy Irene cry again, okay? Come out whenever you're ready. We'll be waiting."

"I'll talk to you more often, Yerim. Let's share secrets everytime and don't tell mommy Irene, okay?"

"Okay, me first. My secret... hmm..." Wendy faced the ceiling and think of something. "The first secret I will tell you is..." She looked up to Irene first to check whether she's still sleeping before turning back to Yerim and reveal anything. It's safe.

"I finally bought your mommy's ring! Don't tell mom, okay? I'll propose to her again and I'll do it the right way." Wendy giggled. She looked at Irene again to make sure and she's still sleeping. Due to her excitement, she hugged Yerim and ended up sleeping again.

---

Wendy started giving Irene a boquet of flowers too. She always made sure to give it to her in an unexpected time of the day so it surprises Irene everytime. Super unexpected that Irene sometimes end up scolding her.

Since Irene learned how to cook already with help of Wendy, she used that time giving her flowers too.

"Wendy, can you pass me the sliced cabbage?" She asked as she's busy sauting the slices of garlic, onion and meat on the pan.

"Where? I can't find it."

Irene's eyebrow twitched, it's only behind her and behind her is where Wendy's in as well.

She sighed deeply and turned around to get it herself when Wendy gave her the flowers.

"For the prettiest cook I've ever seen." Wendy conveyed and that's how Irene burned whatever she's cooking and scolded Wendy in the end.

"That's dangerous, Wendy. Don't ever do that again!" Irene was in an angry posture with her hands on her waist. Wendy, on the other hand, was like a child remorsing on her knees with both hands above her head in front of Irene. However, Wendy's mind wanders quickly about how this situation would become Yerim's place under Irene's disciplinary actions in the future so it caused her to giggle which made Irene even more mad at her.

Irene would always make it up to her every night though, when she has calmed down sleeping in Wendy's arms.

Thinking about those and a lot more precious moments with Irene, Wendy was overjoyed. If this is life's reward to her for continuously fighting and living each day, she wouldn't ask for anything more.

Wendy never knew what lies ahead of her when she was at the pit of depression, she never looked forward to future because she thought her life will always stay in the same dark place. But to be where she is now, filled with love and happiness which she never had, it has taught her a lesson that not giving up on life made all of these happened. At the end of the day, good things will come after a good fight. That's how life can be felt and that's how one will find its true value.

"Will you marry me?" She kneeled in one knee as she asked for Irene's hand, offering her a diamond ring. The tears of overwhelming happiness was shed.

The lights surrounding them in a beautiful garden, the live band playing a romantic song, their family and friends all present has moved both of them in a dream like paradise on earth.

Irene was weeping and despite the loud cheers of the crowd around them, it was only Wendy she could ever see and hear.

"Yes, Wendy. And no matter how many times you ask for my hand, my response will all be the same. I love you so much!"

Wendy got up and put the ring to Irene's finger. After they both admire the ring worn by its rightful owner, they finally leaned for a kiss.

"I love you too, Irene. My happiness, I finally found you." Wendy said genuinely smiling as another tear escaped her eye.