....

You didn't have a chance to go back to your flat, but after your mall adventure, Taemin reckoned it was best to take you straight to your new digs since he got a buzz from his old man.

"Eomma and Appa are at home and want us to drop by first. Is that fine with you guys?" He looked at you as he told you about the call.

You and Melissa just gave a nod, "No worries, Taemin. I reckon Mum wants us to check out the house first so we've got plenty of time to unpack and chill before we kick off the new workday."

Taemin nodded, "It's great. I'll bring you back and, maybe if you have any need just call me."

Becky pulled up her face. "Oi Taemin, are you not keen to hang with us?"

Taemin smiles at Becky's disappointment, "Unfortunately, I have to go back to the hospital for a shift. I'm doing my residency and need my hours."

"No worries, the doctor will sort us out and get us home later tonight," you said with a cheeky grin.

Taemin smiled and looked at Melissa with an undefined expression on his face. "Er...Melissa, just give me a call if you need to get around town. I'll be available to take you guys sightseeing anytime."

Melissa looked flustered at Taemin's low-key interest. Taemin's liking for Melissa caused you and Becky to exchange side glances and suppress your smirks.

Becky shot you a message and gave you a nod to check your phone, mate.

You crack a grin and light up.

Becky: Taemin is Tarnished, and he's flying solo with no missus in sight.

You just winked at her as your eyes drifted to the two at the front who were speaking softly. Melissa was trying to communicate in the little Korean she knew. You are so proud of your friend, even if she is infuriating. You hope both of you will get along with your new intern colleagues and that there will be no bias or bullying. You are so sick of being bullied online and physically since school. No wonder you learned how to fight and defend yourself.

When you inquired about the new house, Becky responded with a cheeky grin and said, 'You'll see.'
Dr. Hyun said that the house is in a very affluent area, and it's your mum's dream house. He only wants the best for his redhead fiancé. Becky already went to the university open day, and she likes the atmosphere and the friendly vibe of the lecturers. Becky will first do her Korean Culture and Language Year module and then settle in her chosen field.

Melissa relishes her time with the handsome Taemin, admiring the deep dimples that make him look endearing. You wish to text your Mochi privately, but he might already be asleep, considering it will be 1 am in Chicago. Instead, you send a cute emoji and remind your boyfriend to rest well, expressing your love for him. He was thrilled when you shared your mum's physical address during your flight.

You reckon he'd be knackered after that packed-out gig. You and Melissa will catch the fan cam concert when you get back from your mum's early dinner.

You also text your dad and tell him you arrived safely in Seoul and that you're ready to explore your new surroundings. You spoke to Samantha, your brothers, and Janine, who is having a blast in Japan. She already made two new intern friends from Singapore and Bolivia.

When you enter the private gated estate, you are filled with awe at all the huge mansions. Taemin's entrance into a white, double-storey residence left you and Melissa speechless. You never knew that Doctor was so loaded.

It has an Italian Tuscany feel. The house was stunning, and it stood out with its dark aluminium windows.

Melissa was squealing as you hopped out of the car. You were gobsmacked as you stared at the massive entrance doors.

As Becky grabbed some groceries that needed chilling, she laughed. "Welcome to our new digs, sis; you haven't seen anything yet. Dr. Hyun and Mum have been flat out since last week decorating up the house. I helped, of course, ...". Her brown eyes were shining with pride.

You just shook your head. "Well, it's stunning. I thought we'd be stuck in a boring old single-story joint in the suburbs...but this looked as if it's out from the 'House and Home' mag is a real stunner." You couldn't believe it.

Your mum and Dr. Hyun were in the huge lounge enjoying a glass of wine when Taemin led you through. The whole interior of the house was neutral, with caramels, beige, creams, and dark furniture with light textured soft furnishings.

Melissa took you on a house tour. You marvel at the back porch that overlooks a sparkling blue pool and BBQ area. Your room was on top and led out to the huge landscaped garden and pool. You and Becky share a balcony.

Melissa was ecstatic when she plopped down the soft chairs in the far corner of the open patio lounge. You can imagine yourself relaxing under the cool patio and just reading or playing games.

When you looked at your mum, she looked so satisfied and happier than ever. You smile deeply satisfied at the way Dr. Hyun treats your mum with the respect that she deserves. You feel lighter, especially after you made peace with your dad. Realising your mum's settled status brought peace to your heart and mind. She obtained her medical degree; she's marrying a worthy man who loves her, and she has two successful stepsons who respect and accept her. Even their Korean family is pleased with her.

Becky will study and have a new life in Korea. You will graduate from university, and if you and Jimin don't work out and he meets his soulmate, you will unfortunately leave and either go back to Sydney to be around Samantha or find work and emigrate to the USA to be with your other best friend Zen. Your brother Bryant decided to stay with his soulmate in Australia and settle in Melbourne.

Right now, everything is going smoothly for everyone; only your love life is in jeopardy. It is now in the system's hands; you are even too scared to think about a future without the love of your life.

Your mum prepared a huge Korean dinner with the help of her fiancé to celebrate your birthday. You got a designer Celine outfit from your mum, a new laptop, and gaming accessories from Dr. Hyun. Becky bought you a new line of Korean skin care products and a box of platinum-coloured shampoo to help you blend in. You looked at her with deep affection because it was one major stress factor. She even told you she doesn't want Korean saseangs to track you down, especially at work. Taemin bought you a new Samsung flip phone with all the essential Korean apps installed. You were almost crying from gratitude. You were all enjoying strawberry and fresh cream birthday cake on the porch when your new maid came in and called Dr. Hyun.

You were laughing and having a wonderful time together when you all noticed Dr. Hyun's awed and shocked expression. Your mum immediately jumped up, and you all looked startled at the doctor, who seemed to have no words.

"Shelly, I think the family must come out with me to see something." His expression was still flabbergasted as all of you followed him and your concerned mum out of the huge lounge through to the open entrance doors.

Melissa raised an eyebrow at you and asked, "What's wrong?"

You just gave a head shake, "No clue!"

When you all rush out of the door, your eyes widen in shock. In front of you was a shiny red Hyundai SUV...and a delivery guy with a board who spoke to Dr. Hyun in Korean. Your stepdad's face was an understatement, and your mum rushed to his side and took the documents.

You gazed at your mum, and she flashed you a big grin. "Looks like your day just got a whole lot better, Merida! It's a pressie from someone special, mate."

Your eyes go all wide in disbelief, "Crikey! For me, from whom—" Melissa and Becky let out a massive squeal and bolted over to check out the car's exterior. They were gobsmacked and could just stare at you, totally blown away.

You looked perplexed at your mum, who nodded, but there was a knowing look in her eyes, and your heart sank as you realised who the huge gift came from. Your mum was wise enough not to expose who it might be. The delivery man wrapped the car in a large red and gold ribbon, smirking as he informed Dr Hyun that the sender remained anonymous. He received the order directly from the manufacturer; not even the car dealers had access to this new model, scheduled for distribution within a week.

Your family was beyond surprised, and your mum just shrugged and told her fiancé it might be from your dad in New Zealand. She will disclose your relationship with the star if you give her the go-ahead, but right now you want no one in Korea to know your love life and secret relationship.

Dr. Hyun smiled widely as he handed you the keys and a huge blue sealed envelope with your name written in gold. Rubina Amber Wallace.

You will read it later after you have a little talk with your mochi. No wonder he made you promise to accept the gift first without you having any idea what he might send. You truly thought it would be jewellery—like a bracelet. Imagine a brand-new car that hasn't been physically introduced to the market yet. What was he thinking? Your mum will surely roast you after today. She will want to know the real state of your relationship. She doesn't know that you and Jimin have reconciled, only that you are now the closest of friends. She'll faint if she gets to know that you and Jimin spent a weekend alone, and after your unexpected pregnancy two years ago, she'll rush you again to take tests. Even if you're an adult, capable of making your own decisions and mistakes, she will still rush you into taking tests.

Melissa bursts into laughter, yelling at you to open the car doors and not to waste time identifying the sender. She and Becky were overly giddy as they caressed the car outside. You just shook your head at their silly antics.

Becky and your mother helped remove the large ribbon. Even Taemin had to help after he rushed into the house to get a pair of scissors. The whole family was ecstatic about your unexpected gift, creating an electrifying atmosphere. The family took numerous selfies. You'll send one to Bryant and one to the friend's chat group. Samantha will surely faint if she sees your expensive gift.

Taemin chuckled, "Your dad must truly love his daughter to give you such a huge surprise!" He gushed as he examined the charcoal leather interior, while Melissa checked out the technology of the vehicle.

You just stood with your mum as you let them gush over your new SUV. You smile thinking about your small, trusted Ford Falcon 2017 model car at home, and now you have a very expensive SUV, the latest model that you wouldn't even afford on your first-year salary combined.

Melissa gives a cheeky grin, her dark eyes twinkling with an amused glint."Oh, her 'daddy' is a real gem, isn't he?"

You just wrinkled your nose at that vibe, 'cause Melissa's got a gut feeling about who this pressie might be from.

You snort, "Don't be a drongo." But you just have a chuckle.

Taemin smiles. 'So would you like to take it for a spin around the block.?"He asked hopefully.

You looked at him with wide eyes. "Er...no. I don't know the Korean road signs, and I don't want my first ticket in Seoul in my new car, thanks."

Melissa jumped up with excitement, "Come on!...Taemin can help guide you, and I know a few signs too. You must experience this firsthand!" She clapped her hands with joy, overflowing with excitement. Your first hours in Seoul were brimming with excitement!

After a bit of convincing, the young people hopped into the car, with you behind the wheel and Taemin riding shotgun next to you. Melissa and Becky were hanging out at the back.

Becky and Melissa waved to the elders as you slowly drove the SUV, feeling a mix of nervousness and excitement.

Melissa frowned, "Ruby, are you driving Ms. Daisy right now? Seriously? Feel the excitement of "Fast and the Furious" with your sneakers. Wow. You drive so slowly that I can count the leaves on those tree branches."

Becky and Taemin softly snicker as you just give them an unimpressed look.

You turn and give her a stinky look. "I don't know the road, okay...and I don't want to make an accident."

As you drove slowly around the block, Melissa and Becky were jamming to a new BTS song, "Boy with Love," on the radio. Jimin even said BTS is to perform one of their highly anticipated comeback songs on a popular American show. You can't wait to hear it.

After a few blocks of practicing your driving and getting acquainted with the environment and road signs, you gave Melissa a chance to take over the steering wheel and go back home.

Melissa couldn't hold back her excitement when you chose to take her spot at the back, "Oh yeah baby! Let's demonstrate our skills to Ms. Slow Coach! Hey, let's turn up the music and have a jam session, Taemin! Yeah...I'm just cruising to AgustD tracks---

You just roll your eyes as Taemin makes the sound louder. Melissa downloaded a playlist when she found out your car has YouTube and Spotify apps. Now there will be no cure for her.

She will become your designated driver to work and back because she can read and understand Korean at an average level. Both of you have already enrolled in Korean language classes. Now this girl made sure her dreams came to fruition as she planned her life. She truly embodies the essence of a Koreaboo.

Taemin decided to postpone going early to the clinic to hang out with the family, so after 7 p.m., you and Melissa hugged your family and headed home with Taemin. You were pleasantly surprised when you found out that the medical facility belongs to your stepdad's father, who is a director. No wonder Taemin could get extra hours free to spend with his new sister on her birthday.

Taemin suggested that he would guide you and Melissa home. He'll drive ahead, and you will slowly follow him. This will allow Melissa to familiarise herself with the road signs. He even gave you a shortcut towards Netmarble's headquarters. Melissa couldn't wait to take you for a ride the next day, as you were still too nervous. Melissa was optimistic and ready to embrace every experience. You do envy her for that trait.

After that, you head back to your new apartment with plastic containers filled with delicious home-cooked meals that will keep you nourished for the week.

.....

You and Melissa were beyond shocked when you entered your apartment with the porter who helped with your numerous shopping parcels.

The apartment was spacious and beautiful. Melissa's mum made sure she'd have a wonderful stay in Gang'gu. Melissa decided long ago to come and live in Seoul when she got the offer of a permanent post at Netmarble, but you know the competition will be tough because most youngsters want to live in the heart of Seoul.

You just hope for the best.

You and Melissa chose your rooms. Both rooms were facing the cityscape, and it has natural light.
After you have packed away your groceries and clothing, you decide to decorate your living space to make it more homey with the extra blue and grey cushions you purchased.

Melissa then assists you in colouring and shampooing your hair.

You appear miserable as you stare at your light platinum locks."I can't believe I coloured my hair.My mother will have an aneurysm when she sees me." You appeared anxious as Melissa led you to the basin to rinse it off.

Melissa looked remorseful. "Don't worry, girl...I've heard that Korea has wonderful products to assist you in stripping the colour from your original colour. This shampoo is really powerful, but it will last at least three months, with a retouch every three or four weeks."

You nodded as she rinsed your hair. "I just hope I blend in. My red hair was a great cause of stress. Only die-hard fans would recognise my face, so I'll just go work with my natural, radiant, freckled complexion." You moaned. "No foundation to hide my nose and cheek freckles."

Melissa giggled loudly as she brought you to the large bedroom mirror, where she began working with a hot blower and straightener.

Your eyes widened as you noticed your light platinum strands, "Holy Dooley! Melissa. I appear like I'm from northern Europe. I looked like a natural blond." You were astounded by the gorgeous shimmering hue. Almost ethereal. Jimin will have a stroke when he sees your new appearance.

Melissa smiles widely, her eyes beaming with delight. "You are more beautiful with blonde hair. I do not believe you will be able to fit in. With this hair, you will stand out, and your Korean oppas will fall for you. Our Mochi will have fierce competition."

You snorted at her teasing expression, "Really! I don't want to be a strange experiment for these local guys. I am not anyone's novelty."

Melissa giggled, "Well, I'm willing to be an exotic experiment. I need a Korean oppa for me. You have our Army's Chimmy. There is no need to complain."

Your eyes widen as you playfully push her away."My word, Melissa. I will not even see him in Seoul. They are having a wonderful time in the United States. Even meeting in secret is risky. Do you realise how sly and cunning Despatch is here? They can gather any humiliating footage of idols here. A dating scandal marks the end of any idol's career."

But you know Jimin is so untouchable that even the dating scandal between you two has been confirmed; his brand ranking has only just become more popular in Korea.

You and Melissa decided to watch the full concert the next day after work. But when you went to bed by 12 am, you were still watching Jimin-focused fancams.

Your stud muffin is truly very sexy and charming, and your heart aches as you watch him doing his solo of 'Serendipity.'. He wasn't just charismatic; his natural kindness and caring nature are what made him extraordinary.

You decided to send him a text message early in the morning.

'Hey, Jim's...my word! Why did you buy me such a huge gift? My family got a meltdown. But thank you so much for the gift...gosh, you are something. It seems you want me to stand out here in Seoul with such a luxury vehicle. Love your performance. So have a great day. I love you. R'

You dressed yourself in a thin, light grey jersey with a sleeveless black top and black skinny jeans, and you made sure your hair was blow-dried around your face, with little bangs. Your face was glowing from using Korean skincare, but you didn't use too much foundation so that your natural freckles can stand out as a disguise. You placed your black-rimmed glasses on your nose and a plain black and white beanie on your head to round off your smart, nerdy look.

Melissa looked adorable in a white shirt top and black ripped jeans with combat boots. She styled her hair in loose waves and maintained her impeccable makeup. She was super hyper as you ate your cereal.

Melissa beamed, "Ruby, you look ace! You may be a bit nerdy, but you're a pro gamer. We're going to take over Netmarble's intern office."

You gave her a bit of a suspicious look and said, "I'll be right as rain when no one's connecting me to Jimin. That would be a complete catastrophe, my friend."

You eat your breakfast in silence while a chill goes up your spine.

"No one will know you're Red, girl," Melissa laughed." So, relax. The interns will be from all over the globe, mate. You might be last year's news. You'll reckon you'll have a fantastic time during your internship, mate!As long as BTS is out of the country, you're safe!"

You lifted your brows, "You reckon...I sincerely hope that is the case, as I will be unable to finish my internship if those sasaengs disrupt my life."

Melissa just chuckled, "Oh, the strife of being famous."

You shot her with a deadpan stare, "The dark side of fame isn't all that flashy, Mel. There's a reason why my mum put the brakes on my acting dreams... the paps are a right pain, and the smear campaigns will send you insane."

Melissa rubbed the back of your hand and nodded sympathetically, saying, "But...the management might know you after the big scandal."

"Yes, but as Red, not Rubina." You answered back.

"Then I'll introduce your birth name, Rubina, out there to our new mates; maybe you can talk with the intern supervisor when they introduce you," Melissa suggested.

"Hmm, that's if they're onto the scandal, eh?" you snort.

Melissa was very nervous at first, but with renewed confidence, she got you to the huge Netmarble skyscraper. The security guard guided her to the underground staff parking area after she presented your IDs.

The entrance foyer was buzzing with young adults who stood around, and others were sitting on the ottomans and getting to know each other. You let Melissa do the talking as she hurried with you back to the reception desk.
The receptionist confirmed your internship after she checked on her laptop. Her eyes momentarily darted to you when she read your name.

She furrowed her brows when she saw your new looks because apparently, she had a pic with red hair on your digital form. You looked at her and wondered why she looked so strange to you?

She smiled sweetly and asked again for your ID card. When she confirmed your authentication, she grinned with a new awareness in her eyes.

You got your lanyards, a welcome plastic folder that consists of every piece of information.

She smirked when she looked at you again. "Ms. Rubina and Ms. Melissa, I hope you have a wonderful time with us---"

Melissa smiled widely as she placed her lanyard around her neck. "Thank you so much, Jaerin..."

You smile slightly and bow, "We sure will...thank you."

When you and Melissa turned around to find a place to sit among the little crowd, you quickly turned back, just in time to see Jaerin giving a joyful dance with a wide smile as she looked and conversed with her friend. You quickly turn around when you see her friend looking in your direction with wide eyes. Just great!

As you whispered, "What a nice way to be low-key recognised." Your heart fell.

Just then, two people yell out for your attention. You and Melissa were standing at the back. The guy looked like the intern manager as he addressed the new arrivals. His English was good, and everyone could understand.

The girl was just smiling next to him as he explained the process of the day.

You were all asked to follow them inside their conference centre. Melissa quickly dragged you to one of the front round tables mostly seated for two.

Some of the places were filled with Koreans who were part of the staff. Your eyes roamed discreetly around as you saw at least different nationalities. You loved the fact that the small crowd was at least 50% diverse.

Melissa was overly giddy as you both paid attention to a man who seemed to be in his 30s taking the podium to address the gaming interns and the rest of the staff who will be involved in grooming the bright-eyed game programmers.

You took out your electronic diary and notebook to make sure you took some invaluable notes. A girl next to you at another table sighed loudly and pat Melissa on the arm in a low voice.

'Hey there! Could you please lend me a pen? I think I dropped mine outside... "She asked with a hopeful tone. Melissa smiled and handed her one of the pens on the table.

"Here you go..." Melissa chuckled.

"Thanks a bunch, you're a lifesaver! I'm Adalyn, and I'm from Scotland!" She stretched out her hand discreetly as she shook hands with Melissa. You just wave at her friend and divert your attention back to the man in front as he explains some stuff on the projector screen.

You sigh deeply, knowing that this will be a very interesting day.

......

A/n: Ruby and Melissa had a very eventful first day.

Thank you for all your support. Your loyalty is highly appreciated.

2nd place winners of the name contest: 

Adalyn by GebreGziabeher -congrats. Adalyn will be Melissa and Ruby's new intern friend in Seoul. Adalyn is from Scotland.

1. Do you think Ruby will be able to adapt?

2. Do you think Jimin might expose them if he comes back to Seoul?

3. What do you think about the extravagant gift?

4. Do you think Ruby was recognised at work or just for being beautiful?

5. Do you think she has done enough to blend in?