Chapter 14

Normal POV

Tiffany was finishing up her masterpiece while Kris stood by Jessica’s door. He was waiting for the two girls to get ready. Kris couldn’t see Jessica because Tiffany was blocking her from his view.

“I guess an hour wasn’t enough.” Kris whispered.

“Blame your ever so lovely cousin here for not being cooperative!” Tiffany said as she was finishing Jessica’s eyes.

“I never asked you to do this, Tiff. You even forced me.” Jessica uttered with her eyes closed.

Kris let out a small smile. It was refreshing for him to hear those little snide comments from Jessica. This will be the first time ever since the incident that all three of them went out together. And he has Yuri to thank for that and well of course Tiffany. It occurred to him that Tiffany would’ve invited them anyway however he also thought that Jessica would’ve had second thoughts and that’s where Yuri comes into the picture.

“Hold still, Jess!! So we can get this over with!” Tiffany said in frustration. Her “canvass” was becoming more and more wary about her decision.

“I’ve been sitting still for more than an hour, Tiff. This isn’t normal anymore! What are you doing anyway?!” Jessica shot her eyes open and sent a glare over to her best friend.

“I’m making you into a goddess so please stop whining and just do as I say! Close your eyes again!” There was no way Tiffany was giving up. Her masterpiece was in its final stages and it would be a shame not to continue.

Jessica had no choice but to comply. She made a mental note to never let Tiffany do this to her ever again. It was just plain torture. She wasn’t the type to doll up or what not. It just wasn’t her thing.

While all of this was going on, Kris decided to leave the two and retreat back to the living room to watch T.V. He flipped through the channels until something caught his attention.

….Today, KGC celebrates its 50^th founding anniversary. Anyone who’s anyone will be attending this prestigious event. Celebrities, Politicians and everyone else from Korea’s Elite society will have the privilege to participate and indulge themselves at this luxurious party…..

It was a news report about the said event. Images from last year’s party flashed through the T.V screen. Kris didn’t expect the event to be that big. Sure, he knew that Tiffany was from an influential family however he has never really gotten the impression of that from her. It was because Tiffany wasn’t your typical rich kid. She wasn’t snobbish nor was she spoiled. Tiffany was one of those rare type of rich kids who had the value of hard work and respect instilled in them.

“And to think that Yuri’s part of the main family… I wonder…” Kris muttered to himself.

He began to think about how Yuri was. Like, Tiffany he didn’t give off that spoiled vibe. He was well… he couldn’t describe it but it was definitely far off from being stuck-up.

Click clacking of heels snapped him out of his trance. He looked over to where the sound was coming from and there he saw Tiffany. He wasn’t surprised that much since he already saw her, Kris was more interested in his cousin.

“Behold, my masterpiece!” Tiffany says as she steps aside to reveal her artwork.

Whatever Kris saw left him in pure awe. All he could utter was…

“Whoa…”

--

Jessica’s POV

“So…how do I look?” I nervously asked Kris. His expression made me even more nervous

There was a few seconds of silence before Tiffany spoke up and answered for my dear cousin

“Look! He can’t even utter a word! My mission was definitely accomplished!” Tiffany said in confidence

I sighed. I saw myself before coming out of the room and boy was I surprised. I never really thought I could look… this well uhm decent? I’m really not into fancy things like these. I’m more of a flats kind of girl. Heels, dresses, skirts and other normal girl stuff are not that attractive to me. I only wear them during formal occasions such as this party but out of all the parties I’ve attended, this one has got to be the biggest. It’ll probably be my first and last time to witness such a grandeur event so I might as well make the most out of it.

“You look… wow. Jess, is that really you?” Kris suddenly said

“Of course it is! That my friend is my work of art. Tiffany Hwang’s Masterpiece!”

I couldn’t help but laugh at Tiffany’s remarks. She did such an amazing job, that I have to admit. She can probably turn anyone into a work of art though I’m not saying I am but she did make me look normal, for once.

“Let’s get a move on! The artist wants to let the world know of her latest work!” Tiffany linked her arms with mine and started to pull me along with her. Kris stood aside and let us walk first. We got on the elevator to get us to the lobby. Luckily, no one was hanging around the area. It was only the doorman and the security guards. I’m pretty sure they don’t recognize me. Makeup is truly such an amazing thing.

We got outside and from there Tiffany’s car and chauffer greeted us. Kris opened the car door for us and Tiffany got on first and I followed. Kris, sat on the passenger seat, beside the driver.

“You guys will be sitting with me. It’s gonna be so much fun!” Tiffany’s excitement was written all over her face. Her smiles are bigger than usual and her giddiness is on a higher level.

“Lots of famous people will be there, yeah? Here’s to hoping that we don’t do anything to embarrass you Tiff. If we ever do, I’m apologizing in advance.” Kris said as he looked back at us

“Psssh. Please, you guys can do whatever you want! It’d be more fun that way!”

“So you’re actually encouraging us to go crazy and shame the precious name of Tiffany Hwang?”

“You guys can’t put shame to my name at any rate. Even if you did, it’s not like people there would care. I’m not part of the main family anyway so anything goes!”

I guess not being part of the main family has drawbacks as well as advantages. Over the years that I’ve known Tiffany, I have never heard her complain about not being in the main line of her kin. If I were in her position, I wouldn’t mind it at all. I don’t like being in the spotlight anyway but maybe Tiffany doesn’t share the same thoughts or maybe she does. I’ll have to ask her one of these days.

The car ride was silent except for Tiffany’s random giggles and snickers. Kris, was fondling with his phone. As for me, I feel nervous and excited at the same time. Excited, because attending this prestigious party is something new for me and new may not always be better but hey, it’s something. I’m nervous because of that tall mysterious tanned soccer guy that invited me to this party.

To be honest, when Tiffany was “dolling me up” I couldn’t help but think of Yuri. The worst thing that could happen is him not recognizing me but then he’s way too smart anyway. Of course when he sees me with Kris and Tiffany, he’d automatically realize that it’s me that they’re with. I wonder how he’ll react to this “version” of me. Well not really version since I don’t even do this on my own. Will he like it? Or will he be downright weirded out by me?

(Jessica's Gown) (Tiffany's Gown) (Kris)  

--

Normal POV

A sea of photographers were present near the entrance of the chosen venue of KGC's 50^th anniversary party. Endless clicks and flashing lights can be heard and seen. One by one, the guests were arriving and the more they did the more the media went crazy.

Yuri was already inside, standing near the entrance to the hall to be used for their party. For the whole night he has to smile at people he didn’t care about. It was a simple task, after all he was the master of misleading people to his advantage.

He stood tall and smiled brightly at the people who passed by him. Yuri’s father, on the other hand, was watching him from inside the hall.

“Your son must take after you. He seems to have a keen eye for details, going as far as standing there and greeting each of one your guests.” One of the foreign partners of KGC said

“I wouldn’t say that. He’s quite different. Extraordinary, if you will.” Yuri’s father replied

“Dare say, he’ll be better than you when the times comes?”

Yuri’s father did not say anything but instead smiled.

He’ll bring KGC to greater heights. Far beyond what I’ve made. Far from anything this world has ever seen.

---

Jessica’s POV

Tiffany’s car came to a complete halt. Kris went out first and opened our door. He held his hand out for Tiffany and when she got out, he did the same to me.

The moment I got out, several flashing lights almost blinded me. I kept my grip on Kris’ hand as he closed the car door behind me.

Tiffany went to my other side and linked arms with me, signaling Kris to let go of my hand. I looked over to her and I saw her brightly smiling at the different cameras. How in the world can she handle all these lights flashing at her and all at the same time?

I slowly felt the anxiousness rise up to my chest. I don’t know why but all these eyes and lenses on me started to make me feel so vulnerable.

“Don’t worry. Me and Kris are here.” Tiffany whispered to me

I looked over to my left, Kris was handling it better than I expected. He was just standing there, waiting for us to make a move.

Tiffany started to walk and with our arms linked together, I naturally had to follow her while Kris trailed closely behind us. I’m pretty sure I looked awkward next to Tiffany because I couldn’t bring a smile to my face, even a small one. It was just too intense for me.

We entered the hotel and from there we saw a few people who were already making their way to the function hall. Anyone who’s anyone has got to be here. It almost makes me feel guilty for attending. I don’t really have the status requirement to even be here.

We walked towards the entrance of the hall. As we got closer, there I saw someone I knew but was not entirely familiar with, well at that moment anyway.

--

Normal POV

Yuri had already greeted, at least ¼ of the invited guests but none of them was the bunch he was looking for. Group after group, his eyes were searching for a certain crowd.

After another batch of persons he absolutely did not care about, he caught sight of familiar faces.  About  5 groups away, he spotted Tiffany and Kris however before he could focus in on the girl beside the former who by the way was slightly being blocked from his vision by other people, his attention was called.

“Kwon…Yuri, right?” A man in his late 50s greeted Yuri.

Yuri dropped his gaze and turned to the man who spoke. He quickly recognized him and so he gave him a formal bow.

“Yes. Good Evening, Mr. Park. Thank you for attending tonight’s event.” Yuri said after he raised his body from that bow.

“KGC has given Seoul prosperous years. It’s one of the leading contributors to Seoul’s increase in foreign investors. I’m looking forward to seeing you on the front line of this empire.” Mr. Park stretched out his hand to which Yuri gladly shook.

I highly doubt you’d still be in office when that time comes though.

Park Woo-Sun, the mayor of Seoul since 2011 has close ties with KGC however this was the first time, Yuri has ever talked to him.

After exchanging words with the mayor, Yuri turned to look to where he spotted Tiffany. To his dismay, his eyes only found Tiffany and Kris slowly approaching him.

“Hey there.” Tiffany greeted as she smiled at Yuri.

“It’s good to see you.” Yuri smiled at her

“…you too, Kris.” He added

Kris and Tiffany smiled back and made their way inside but after a few steps, Tiffany turned around and spoke.

“Jessica went to the girls’ room by the way!” Tiffany said while giggling before walking away

Yuri slightly turned his head, only to see the slowly disappearing figures of Tiffany and Kris.

Of course she’d be there.

The amount of people arriving had doubled. Seeing this, Yuri’s father asked one of his assistants to call over his son and leave all the assisting work to the others.

“Mr. Kwon is calling for your, sir.” A man went to Yuri’s side and whispered to him

Yuri, who was still greeting the incoming guests, nodded. Before going inside, he made sure to greet the ones who were already near the entrance. He immediately went by his father’s side who was standing at one corner near the stage.

“You should’ve let the staff do all the assisting and greeting.” Yuri’s father said. He wasn’t looking at his son but rather at the people who were slowly filling up the tables inside the function hall

“I just tried to do what I thought was expected of me.”

“Well then you think too much.” Yuri’s father put his hand on his son’s shoulder and laughed

Yuri did not find his father’s comment amusing or funny but he forced himself to smile, even just a bit to avoid making the whole situation more awkward than it already is.

“…By the way, who is that boy with Tiffany? Is that her boyfriend?”

Yuri followed his father’s gaze and there he saw Tiffany and Kris laughing away the night.

“That boy is in my class. I invited him and one other person. They happen to be friends with Tiffany as well.”

Yuri’s father kept his gaze on Kris, it was as if he could see through him.

“That boy… make sure he doesn’t pull anything funny or do anything to Tiffany. You have to protect her, alright? She’s still family, no matter what.”

Yuri nodded and excused himself. While his father was talking about Tiffany, he spotted his aunt who was making her way towards them. Before she could reach them, Yuri had already closed the gap between them.

“Hey kiddo, I was about to greet you and your father.” Sang Ah said as her nephew appeared before her

Yuri sighed before speaking again.

“Whatever you see later on, don’t make a big deal out of it. I have my own plans, okay?”

Sang Ah threw Yuri a suspicious look. She knew that he was talking about the girl he previously mentioned.

“Don’t tell me you already lost her. I haven’t even met her! And mind you kiddo, I let her wear one of my unreleased works!” She sounded more childish than ever.

“I’m sure she’ll do justice to your work. Let me handle this one, okay?”

When Sang Ah heard those last words, she couldn’t help but smile. Without knowing, she had brought her hand to touch Yuri’s face.

“You know, that’s what your mother always used to say. She always wanted to do things by herself. I guess you take after her more, huh?”

Yuri snickered and gently removed his aunt’s hand.

“Now’s not the time to get all sentimental. Anyways, go on ahead. I’ll catch up with you later.”

Sang Ah smiled and shook her head as she walked towards her table. A part of her was reassured…

Unnie, he turned out to be okay, after all. There was nothing to worry about after all. Everything will be okay…

Reassured that Yuri did turn out okay. It was feared long before that he would have a hard time adjusting as he grew up without a mother to guide him but looking at him just now; he was okay, Sang Ah thought. Was there anything to be afraid of in the first place? She doesn’t know but one thing’s for sure, whatever they feared exists within Yuri…

No. It simply doesn’t just exist within him, it is him.

--

The hall was rapidly being filled with the invited guests of the night. Inside the hall, you’d see various people greeting each other with either fake smiles or genuine ones. The atmosphere was very festive and excitement ensued the crowd. The KGC anniversary party was always an event to look forward to, for the Kwons were known to be excellent party throwers.

Yuri was walking here and there to greet their guests. He was the only son of the Chairman/owner of the company, after all. He felt obliged to do this despite his father’s words. Now, people saw this as Yuri’s way of marketing himself to them, as he would take over the company someday but the truth is the boy in question was not interested in anything at all. He was the epitome of apathy but he had one thing he was not apathetic about.

This boy has never been so passionate about anything. Yuri’s mind runs at a different pace compared to other people. Jessica has left a big impression on him, mainly because he’s making him think without producing any end results. That’s where his feelings come in. Since his mind can’t quite analyze Jessica, Yuri’s innate emotional instincts produce these feelings that are new to him. The more he thinks, the more his emotions get heightened. Though it is beyond Yuri’s comprehension, he does not want to stop it from developing in hopes that in the end, his mind will be able to catch up and finally be able to make him systematically understand everything. The release of all this pent up emotions inside Yuri has made the effect of Jessica more impactful. In a span of a couple of days, Yuri had changed immensely.

With each day that passes, Yuri’s emotions get stronger and stronger. The only question for it is: how long can he keep it that way?

-

Taecyeon and his Uncle have arrived at the hotel. Once they entered, they went straight ahead to the function hall. Despite his ill feelings towards these kinds of people, Taecyeon managed to keep his cool whenever his uncle would introduce him to various business associates of EDX.

I don’t belong here; Taecyeon thought. Sure, he liked the idea of running the business someday but having to show up at social parties like this is a whole different story.

Since EDX was one of the new associates of KGC, Taesong, made it a point to greet the leader of the empire himself.

“Mr. Kwon.” Taesong called out with a smile as he approached Yuri’s father with Taecyeon trailing close behind.

“Mr. Ok, glad you made it.” Yuri’s father returned the smile and offered his hand.

Taesong, quickly took it and firmly shook his hand.

“I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Taesong then turned his head to Taecyeon and gestured him to come forward.

“…This is my nephew, Taecyeon.”

Taecyeon bowed his head and raised it after a few seconds.

“Thank you for allowing EDX to be a part of this wonderful event.” Taecyeon gave his best grin.

I guess this is the guy my uncle has been talking about.

“The pleasure is all mine. You look quite young. If I may ask, how old are you?”

Before Taecyeon could answer, his uncle had already cut him off

“He’s about the same age as your son. Taecyeon, here, recently enrolled in Whimoon.” Hearing this, Yuri’s father was a bit surprised.

“I see. Maybe you know my son then. His name is Yuri… Kwon Yuri…”

More than Mr. Kwon, Taecyeon was definitely taken back by what he had just heard.

“…Ah there he is right there.” Mr. Kwon pointed his son’s direction.

Yuri was talking to staff member. He noticed that his father was pointing at him and so he excused himself from the conversation he was having and went yet again to his father’s side.

At this point, Taecyeon put his right hand inside his pocket, only to ball it up in a fist. He started disliking Yuri because of the way he is with Jessica. That and he also senses a bit of arrogance from him.

Yuri, on the other hand, had realized it was Taecyeon and his uncle who his father was talking to. A small almost devil-like smile crept up to his face as he saw the former’s shocked and angered face.

Guess I already ruined his night, huh? Yuri thought

Despite seeing Taecyeon, Yuri kept his cool and continued walking towards them.

“Mr. Ok of EDX, right? It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Yuri extended his hand to Taesong to which the latter whole-heartedly accepted.

“Yuri, this is Taecyeon. He recently transferred to Whimoon. I was wondering if you knew him.” Mr. Kwon asked

Yuri tore his gaze away from Taesong and looked at Taecyeon directly in his eyes, with that devil-like smile he had earlier.

“No. This is the first time I’ve seen him.” Yuri was quick to answer.

Taecyeon tightened his fist even more, his patience was already wearing thin. He felt as though Yuri was making him feel stupid or inferior in some way.

“I look forward into seeing you in school… Taecyeon-ssi” Yuri extended his hand.

Taecyeon looked down at the hand that was offered to him. He took it and shook hands with Yuri. He made sure to add pressure when he grabbed Yuri’s hand. Looking at Yuri’s eyes directly, Taecyeon became more frustrated as he saw that arrogant smile across his face.

Taesong and Taecyeon went on to their table afterwards. As for Yuri and his father, they too, went to their tables and got ready for the start of the party.

While all of this was going on, the one person Yuri was looking for was hauled up in the ladies’ room.

--

Jessica’s POV

Okay maybe I’m overreacting. Maybe I’m exaggerating but seriously… I cannot go out there. There are so many people! Moreover, they’re not just ordinary individuals. They’re celebrities for God’s sake! And me? I’m nobody. I just happen to be friends with two members of the family host but still that doesn’t really give me anything. God, why did I agree to attend again?!

Oh wait. Yuri…

I looked at myself at the mirror. I can hardly recognize myself. Is this really me? Well, even I know the answer to that. What am I thinking? I’m already here! Plus, I even had Yuri get me this gown. I need to go out there. I’ll go out there. I just need a minute.

I closed my eyes and tried to calm my anxious heart. I took deep breaths and with each intake of air, I felt a little bit better. I was totally focused on my little exercise that I didn’t notice that I was not alone anymore.

“Excuse me? Miss? Are you okay?” I turned my head towards the direction of the voice and a lady in an elegant black dress was looking at me with worried eyes.

“Oh. I’m sorry…” I said as I bowed quite hastily

“…I didn’t notice, I wasn’t alone anymore. Sorry again!” I continued, with me still looking at the floor.

I’m not entirely sure who this woman is but she looked like she’d be part of the host family so I probably should speak more formally.

A few seconds after I heard a soft giggle echo throughout the ladies’ room.

“Whoa there, miss. I’m not a celebrity or anything at all. No need to be formal.” As she said those words, I looked up.

A warm smile greeted me. I couldn’t help but return the smile too.

“I’m sorry. It’s just that I feel like I don’t belong here. This isn’t just my thing.” I coyly said.

“That makes the two of us…” She said as she puts her little clutch bag on the counter near the sinks in front of us.

“…If it weren’t for my boss, I wouldn’t attend this but then again I can’t really turn down an opportunity like this… How about you? You’re here for work too?”

I was able to get a good look at her this time. Wow, she’s beautiful. Porcelain-like skin, warm smile and round eyes. I guess I shouldn’t expect any less. This is a party for elites anyway but she said she’s here for work…

“Uhm…sort of.” I, again, said with the softest tone ever.

“How about this… Let’s enter the hall together. I mean you look like you were having a panic attack earlier. I’m by no means an expert at these events but it’ll be better if you weren’t alone.”

“Thank you!” I quickly replied. There’s no way in hell, I’d turn that offer down.

She smiled at me before extending her hand and introducing herself.

“I’m Grace, by the way. And you are?”

I take her hand and introduced myself too.

“I’m Jessica, Jessica Jung.” 

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AUTHOR'S NOTE

Hello!! 

How is everyone? I hope you are all doing well! 

This chapter is a bit boring, I know hahaha. The next one will have a lot of happenings in it! So stay tuned for that!

Hmm. Can anyone guess who plays Grace in this story? I can quite remember if I mentioned it to you guys haha well anyways, if I have then cool if not then go guess!! 

THANK YOU TO ALL THE NEW SUBSCRIBERS AS WELL AS THE OLD ONES!! YOU GUYS ARE DA BEST!

Till next time! -ymllama