Gaelin sat down beside Min Yoongi on the bench and took a deep breath. The park was crowded at this time of day. They were silent as they watched the people walk by them. There were fitness freaks, mothers with prams, workers rushing to get back to work after lunch, and then there were people like them. The people who made their own time controlled it and stole whole minutes to sit in parks side-by-side and be at peace.

Gaelin stared down at Yoongi’s hand that rested on the bench, he had his fingers curled over the edge and he was holding on tightly. Gaelin lowered her hand onto his. He didn’t react, he didn’t jolt or wince at her touch, and she looked at his face and saw him close his eyes as if in peace. So she let it be, and just sat there.

“I have a secret.” Yoongi finally broke the silence.

“Yes, you do.” Gaelin stared ahead.

“Though not good enough for the Consortium.” He handed her the envelope. Gaelin lifted her hand from his and pulled out the contents from the ivory colored envelope. Inside were photos of Min Yoongi and Park Areum and one card with the following written on it:

Many things measure a President; one of them is the partner at his side.

Make the right choice.

“For 's sake,” Gaelin swore openly.

‘Very ladylike.” Yoongi laughed at her outburst. “So there you have it. If I am to continue then I must give her up.”

“No,”

“Do you say that because you care for me or because you want me to make a mistake” and Gaelin slapped him. Yoongi massaged his cheek, “I needed that.” He was grim as he continued to rub his face.

“What will you do?” Gaelin whisp