He came as the Fourth Prince.

There was no mistake; everyone could see it, but only Ha-Jin understood the significance of his outfit. While the guests were too busy listening to Hwang Kwang-Soo’s opening remarks, she could not take her eyes off the Fourth Prince.

There was no away around it; tonight, he wasn’t Hwang Jae-Yeong in her eyes.

He was Wang So.

His hair wasn’t the same as the late Prince’s but Hwang Jae-Yeong looked so regal in his princely garb. Ha-Jin’s brain, however, wasn’t too focused on the elegant hwangbok he wore; it was too obsessed with the mask.

Why was he wearing one?

“Noona, are you alright?”

Ji-Woo was touching her arm, checking up on her.

“Eh…what?”

“It seems like you’re shell shocked,” remarked the dongsaeng, “Are you okay? Did you see a ghost or something?”

“I…no, I…just remembered something,” she lied.

The audience gave the Hwangs a round of applause; judging from what she could see, Hwang Kwang-Soo had just finished his speech and was thanking the guests for their attendance. His family smiled graciously as well; even Il-Sung, who barely smiled genuinely, gave out his generously.

Only Jae-Yeong maintained a polite composure with both hands in his back. Even in such a static mode, he remained regal.

Ha-Jin still could not wrap her head around the fact that he wore a mask. Questions attacked her brain: why was he wearing one? Was it part of his costume? She tried to remember if she prescribed him wearing one during the original planning. So far, she couldn’t recall adding a mask to his costume.

If she did, that would’ve been suicide.

The very sight of him standing there in an outfit that reminded her so much of Wang So caused her to stumble a bit. Ha-Jin wondered if the drinks kicked in, but she only had one or two so that was out of the equation.

It was just the sight of him.

Immediately, she felt a little nauseous.

“Ahh Ji-Woosshi,” she said, “I’ll just be in the ladies’ room. Stay here with Min-Suk and Yoo-Hee, okay?”

“Okay,” he said, sitting down, “Are you sure you don’t need anything, noona?”

“I’ll be fine,” she reassured him, “I just need to go to the restroom.”

And give my head some air, otherwise, I’d explode.

--

Ha-Jin was again sorely tempted to wash her face with water. But if she did, she’d ruin her makeup and people would know she’s wired. That was the last thing she wanted anyone to notice.

Seeing Jae-Yeong as Wang So, albeit not perfectly him, was stirring emotions and memories. Unlike the encounter with Ji-Woo and Min-Suk, it wasn’t as pleasant as she’d hope. She hoped the nauseous feeling would go away but the image of Jae-Yeong kept coming back to the front of her mind.

Get yourself together Ha-Jinah, she scolded herself, Now is not the time to be fragile. It’s your launch, for Pete’s sake. You worked so hard to develop this product.

She reached out for a paper towel to dry her hands.

Keep yourself intact. Don’t fall over. Stay graceful.

Ha-Jin bowed at a couple of guests who entered the restroom and made her way out, coaching herself.

This isn’t how a court lady should face her dilemmas. It’s all about keeping your cool and keeping it graceful, she repeated, Keep your cool, stay graceful.

“Keep your cool; stay graceful,” she repeated, passing by a couple of eunuchs and court ladies gushing about the family and the line. The MC had taken over again and was discussing the development of iSOi’s Goryeo line.

“Keep your cool; stay graceful,” she said again, “Keep your cool; stay graceful—ah!”

Ha-Jin was surprised with the sudden pull by an unknown force. Before she could pull away or anything, she found herself faced to face with a masked stranger…

Who wasn’t a stranger at all.

Hwang Jae-Yeong looked down at her, his hand still holding her wrist. He had chosen the dark corner beside the kitchen and near the restroom to meet her. No one could see them; not unless they chose to shove themselves inside the tiny crook.

As he looked at her, Ha-Jin knew her eyes were as wide as saucers again. How can she not be surprised when he was so close with that mask on?

The sight of him in such attire was enough for her brain.

“Oh wow,”

Hae Soo thought she had seen everything when she came to the palace but nothing was definitely going to outshine this image.

“What are you doing here? This is no place for you.”

The Fourth Prince looked very different out of his scoundrel-like and torn-up garb. It was odd to see him all neat and proper in his royal wardrobe. The difference it makes when a man ditches the bloody sword and tattered garments for his princely attire.

“You’ve become a completely different person,” she said, observing him from top to bottom. Everything about his black attire screamed appropriate for his status. She nodded approvingly and said, “Now anyone would know that you’re a prince.”

He smirked at her.

“I was born to be. I was already a prince.”

Ha-Jin shook her head, keeping the memory from distracting her. She focused on Jae-Yeong who was looking at her with such intent, it made her nervous. There was always something in the way he stared.

And that mask wasn’t helping one bit.

“Hello,” he greeted.

It took her a minute before she came to her senses.

“I…I thought you wanted to dress up as a eunuch,” she said, “What happened? Why are you dressed like that?”

He frowned, looking down at his attire. “Why? Doesn’t this suit me at all?” he asked.

“No, it’s not that!” she exclaimed. Jae-Yeong immediately shushed her, indicating company nearby. Obviously, he didn’t want to be heard. His finger automatically shot touched his lips, telling her to keep it down.

“It’s not that,” she whispered, “I…I thought you didn’t want to dress up as a prince.”

Jae-Yeong looked at his layers of clothing and shrugged. “Well, Father didn’t want any of his sons coming up on stage as a eunuch. Believe me when I say I fought for my case, but I didn’t want to disappoint him anymore so I had to give in,” he explained, “Does it look too fancy?”

He raised his sleeves for her to see but Ha-Jin was too distracted with the mask. She wanted to know, wanted to ask.

“Why are you staring at me like that?” he asked her, “And you didn’t even bother to say hello back.”

He sounded like a child who had his candy taken away from him. Jae-Yeong wore those puppy eyes so well, Ha-Jin had to keep herself from giggling. Fortunately, the mask distracted her from other emotions. She really wanted to know.

“Hello then,” she said.

He smiled then surveyed her outfit.

“You look nice,” he remarked, “What are you supposed to be?”

Doesn’t this remind him of anything?

“I’m a court lady,” she answered.

“Some top madam in the kingdom , huh?”

“Kind of,”

Jae-Yeong chuckled as he looked around, trying to see if anyone was looking at them. Ha-Jin, on the other hand, was still wondering about his mask.

“Where did you get that?” she asked him, pointing at his mask.

“This?” he asked, touching the one-sided mask. It wasn’t an exact copy of the Fourth Prince’s but damn it if it didn’t make him look just like Wang So. His hair was unlike So’s long mane but the mask was the defining factor.

“I found it at the wardrobe department,” he said, “When Father said I should dress up as a Prince, I wanted to add something—you know, to make it less regal. I hate looking so prim and proper. So I went to the dressing room and found this lying around. No one objected when I wore it.”

He seemed to be enjoying it as he touched it fondly.

“It’s a good cover up,” he continued, “At least, people only see half my face. And besides, didn’t that Fourth Prince wear a mask too?”

He wore a cocky smile as he said it.

Ha-Jin tried to subdue the mini palpitations in her chest. Her head tried to go into a frenzy but she remembered her mantra. This wasn’t Goryeo—this is the 21^st century. She wasn’t faced to face with Wang So but with Hwang Jae-Yeong.

“Well, I just wanted to tell you that you look pretty,” he said, “I’ll have to go socialize right now. I have this big speech later on so, it’s best if half the people here don’t hate me.”

His statement sort of stung for her.

“Don’t give them the reason to hate you,” she told him, “But don’t stoop down to their level just for them to like you either.”

“I won’t do that, Go Ha-Jin. You know how I am.”

Jae-Yeong peeked at her shoulder to see if there was anyone.

“I’m off,” he said, “But don’t disappear, okay?”

He knocked on her forehead and quickly went his way, leaving Ha-Jin breathless and astounded. She watched his retreating back as he made his way to his social circles. Her heart was still beating quicker than normal and she couldn’t blame it.

It’s been years since she saw that masked look of his.

--

“I love how the blusher is just plain and simple. Look at that compact! It’s all lovely and intricate. I love the details.”

Manager Park smiled proudly at Ha-Jin as her friends gushed at iSOi’s new line. They had just revealed the company’s Goryeo line to the audiences, which resulted in praises and compliments. Of course, both Ji-Hyun and her manager made sure Ha-Jin had her share of the limelight. At first, she was too shy but when the compliments came, she couldn’t help but thank them graciously.

“Ah, our Ha-Jinah is very learned with the period,” explained Ji-Hyun, “If you’ll look closely, her recommendations also matched the products used by late Queens and noblewomen.” He showed them a photo to prove his point. The guests nodded approvingly and beamed at Ha-Jin and her manager.

“Wow, that’s impressive!” said the woman dressed as a gisaeng, “You are very dedicated, Miss Ha-Jin.”

“More than dedicated; very detailed too. iSOi is lucky to have you.”

Ha-Jin bowed politely, accepting their comments. “Thank you so much,” she said, “We hope you don’t just enjoy our new products; we hope it also encourages our customers to appreciate the country’s beautiful history.”

The guests continued to survey the products, testing blushers and swatching on lipsticks. Ha-Jin couldn’t help but beam with pride.

This was the fruit of her hard work.

Ji-Hyun was busy entertaining guests, telling them interesting stories about the period. He was very much into the story of gisaengs applying foundation to keep their skin smooth. A round of laughter came from the crowd as he added jokes to his spiel.

Ha-Jin stepped back to let them face the crowd. She had spent an hour entertaining guests, taking in their compliments. For now, she just needed a break.

“The line looks lovely,”

The husky voice surprised Ha-Jin, causing her to squeal. She jumped at the sight of Tae-Won, almost tripping. Luckily, he caught her on time.

“Oh my god, did I scare you?” he asked, holding unto her arms, “I am so sorry.”

“Ah, you just surprised me,” she said.

Tae-Won smiled as he slowly released her from his hold. There was a different feel to his personality tonight—that Ha-Jin was sure.

“Congratulations,” he said, “Everyone likes the new line. I checked them myself and I’m also amazed, even if I’m not an avid makeup fan. You did a good job.”

There was something different in Tae-Won’s air. For the past weeks, he was a bit awkward with her, especially after he asked about her and Jae-Yeong. At that moment, however, he was back to his friendly self, albeit a little reserved.

“Thanks,” she said, “The launch is also amazing. Everyone’s happy. You also did a good job.”

He smiled bashfully, shaking his head. “Well, I wouldn’t have done it well without you and Ji-Hyun,” he said, “You guys were a big help. After this, the three of us should celebrate. Drinks are on me.”

“Aren’t you a bit generous?”

“Anything for my favorite people.”

It felt good to have him back. The past weeks they were nothing but awkward; Ha-Jin almost reached a point where she wanted to seek a discussion with Tae-Won. She thought otherwise, figuring it might be a bad idea if she did. Whatever he did to get over it, she was no longer interested in knowing. Ha-Jin was just glad he’s okay.

“Oh, I ran into Ji-Woo just minutes ago,” said Tae-Won, “He was chasing Ki-Joo. Are they okay?”

“Yeah—just a little quarrel between friends,” answered Ha-Jin, “They’ll be fine.”

Tae-Won nodded before gazing at her. “You look prettier, Ha-Jin. That court lady outfit suits you better than the others,” he said.

She blushed at his comment. “Uh…thanks,” she replied, “You look good yourself, Tae-Wonah. You’re very much a Prince.”

“Pfft, this is nothing compared to Il-Sung hyung. Oh and let’s not forget Nari,” said the youngest Hwang, “You also did a great job with her outfit. She’s like a legitimate princess.”

Nari and Il-Sung were also busy socializing nearby, thanking the people who were congratulating them on the wedding. The former looked stunning beyond imagination; every girl’s self-esteem would deflate instantly; the latter, on the other hand, was the very definition of a Crown Prince.

Even if he wasn’t one.

“Ha-Jinah,”

Tae-Won’s meek and searching tone brought her back to her senses.

He was looking at her with that serious gaze she knew so well—those dark eyes combined with eyebrows scrunched in the middle.

“I…was hoping I could talk to you alone tonight,” he said, “After all this.”

“Oh…about what?”

“There’s something you need to know.”

“Is it serious?”

He bit his lip.

“Too much, I think,” he admitted, “But…I have to tell you.”

Ha-Jin gulped.

“Can you spare me some time tonight?” he asked.

Tae-Won was seeking her; his face said it all. He hasn’t said anything but Ha-Jin had an inkling. She didn’t want to make any assumptions; still, her brain suggested plenty of them.

“Sure,” she said.

What?

He smiled gratefully at her. “Thanks,” he said, “I’ll see you tonight outside the gazebo then. I’ll text you.”

“You do that.”

Tae-Won bid her farewell as he was ushered by one of his business partners for a drink, leaving her confused and, somehow, stick to her stomach. It wasn’t pleasant but it wasn’t too unpleasant either.

“I need a drink,” she said, heading towards the bar.

As she made her way through the groups of guests, her paranoid self made an appearance. There was something in his tone when he asked her for some time. She didn’t want to assume or anything, but her gut feeling was screaming. Surely, whatever Tae-Won was going to say, it was normal right?

She could repeat that for a thousand times and end up still being wrong.

But why did she say yes to his invitation?

Once she reached the bar, she ordered her third drink for the night. Hopefully, another glass would clear her mind.

--

The third became fourth and eventually the fifth glass. She wasn’t much of a drinker but Ha-Jin ended up consuming more than she normally could.

As she tipped the glass, she was starting to feel a little dizzy. If she fell or stumbled, no one would help her; after all, Ji-Woo was lost somewhere in the crowd (probably trying to appease his friend), Min-Suk and Yoo-Hee were exchanging pleasantries with partners, Ji-Hyun was nowehere to be found, and Jae-Yeong…

Well, he was somewhere.

“Ladies and gentlemen, we hope you’re having a gale time tonight,” said the MC, “But before the night comes to an end, please welcome our upcoming CEO—Mr. Hwang Jae-Yeong!”

Oh, there he was.

Through her somewhat fuzzy gaze, Ha-Jin watched as Jae-Yeong ascended the stage in his royal attire. Everyone applauded as he bowed to the presenter then to the audience. Nearby, his family sat on a line of chairs set on the stage. Naturally, Hwang Kwang-Soo took the throne, watching his son with pride.

“Good evening,” he began “On behalf of my family and the entire corporation, I would like to thank you all for sparing us your time and effort. Please accept our deepest gratitude.”

He bowed deeply.

Ha-Jin watched as he continued his speech, addressing the audience with such confidence and warmth—a different picture from the indifferent, devil-may-care CEO-to-be she knew him as. He spoke with such determination and respect, it was hard not to dislike him.

So why do a number do?

 “It’s best if half the people here don’t hate me.”

He knew everyone wasn’t his biggest fan, but he chose to face the music.

“You might be wondering why I’m wearing a mask tonight,” he said, “I guess I just wanted to make sure I’d get your attention by either being interesting or incredibly weird. I hope I managed to do so.”

“I admire our company’s partnership with iSOi. For one, it gave us the chance to venture into something new; second, I learned much about the Goryeo period, and also, we partnered with interesting individuals,” he continued.

Ha-Jin was drawn to how he exhuded such confidence, despite the fact that not everyone in the room liked him. She didn’t know how that felt—it must’ve been hard for him. But there he was, standing tall.

She had to admit, it was admirable of him.

He smiled that one-sided grin. “My father said I should at least try to talk about makeup since that’s what this event is about but as you can see, obviously, I’m not a big fan of cosmetics. But I’ll try my very best and I hope you’ll give me a chance,” he said.

His comment gathered a few laughs here and there.

“I used to question the reason why women are so crazy about makeup. It’s just a bucket of lies, I said to myself. Cosmetics were tools people used to deceive others, making them think they’re worth the attention when really, they aren’t. These days, you think you know someone but they turn out to be the complete opposite. I think everyone here can relate.”

“In the business world, people wear makeup too, but not in the form we know. There’s plenty of them and if you’re not careful, you’d get deceived as well.”

Even from a distance, Ha-Jin saw Il-Sung roll his eyes and shake his head at his brother’s speech.

“That’s why I was never fond of cosmetics—so, you can imagine my surprise when I learned our company partnered with no other than iSOi cosmetics—one of Korea’s top brands. Initially, I was repulsed by the idea, but as we dived deeper into that rabbit hole, my point-of-view changed slowly.”

“In essence, makeup is not bad, especially if used to improve or enhance what is already there. Sometimes, it makes things even more beautiful,” he said, “I used to think that by sponsoring a cosmetics brand, we were sponsoring deceit and lies. But I have come to accept that not everyone means to do so. A little blusher or concealer to hide unwanted scars makes the biggest differences in most people’s lives.”

“And that’s what I want—to make a difference.”

He said it with such authority, even Ha-Jin couldn’t ignore his words. Everyone, both supporters and hidden enemies, were too drawn to his speech to say anything.

Jae-Yeong knew he had his audience hooked. He stared at them straight in the eye.

“Our company exists not just to incur more investments or just gain more money. It’s all about impact,” he said, “What’s the point of earning if only one person benefits? Everyone should gain what they deserve. Hwang Corporation will go beyond just stocks, investments, and money—from now on, it will be the makeup people—big or small—need. We will not lie to them; no, it’s all about enhancing the future by making the right investments.”

“Sometimes, makeup isn’t just about impressing others; it’s about impressing yourself, as well,” he said, “Our corporation holds the lives of a number, which is why I focus on helping them realize their potential and I hope you will partner with us in this venture. It’s worth the time, resources, and effort—that I assure you.”

He concluded his speech by wishing the guests an eventful night and bowing politely as the audience rose from their chairs to give him a round of applause. Ha-Jin, on the other hand, was still stumped with him. She watched as he made his way back to his family; his father gave him a proud pat on the back.  Of course, all his step mother did was just nod in acknowledgement.

Jae-Yeong made such bold statements on the stage. Some people might not agree with him; they might hate him even more.

But for Ha-Jin, it was a game changer that shed some new light on him.

--

It was eleven already but people were still busying themselves; they were either eating their hearts out, admiring the new line, or discussing Jae-Yeong’s statement.

Ha-Jin, despite the drink she’s had, was still active and functional. Admittedly, she was a little tipsy but she still had her sense. She was trying to locate Ji-Woo, who was probably lost in the middle of somewhere. She needed someone to stick with her before she met Tae-Won.

God, am I still going to meet him?

Her gut feeling was telling her that Tae-Won was probably going to confess something that would just make her more confused. She didn’t want to be the assumptive kind of girl, but that’s what the situation looked like. Part of her screamed to just bail but the other insisted it would be rude if she did. What if it was something innocent?

Or maybe not?

Then there was Jae-Yeong’s speech.

For some reason, she was really affected by it. Was it because he exuded such confidence that strongly reminded her of the Fourth Prince? He didn’t just come to the party as Wang So—he was Wang So for the night.

She didn’t know. All she knew was she had to find Ji-Woo.

“Ugh, why did I have four drinks?” she complained, “I should’ve known better.”

Her surroundings were getting a little bit trippy for her liking. She knew she needed another break or else she might stumble. Instead of forcing herself to move on, she chose to lean on a nearby pillar situated behind a group of journalists.

“…that was sort of bull don’t you think?”

“What Hwang Jae-Yeong said about makeup and making a difference?”

“Yeah, that. I think it’s all rubbish.”

Ha-Jin’s ears rang at the word rubbish. She peeked from behind the pillar and saw two of the press people discussing—one of them looking severely displeased.

“He’s just making it worse for him. I mean, god, really? He knows that a lot of the big investors are not happy with his decisions. Is he on a suicide mission or something?”

“I think it was really gutsy of him to do so,” said the first one, “I don’t know what to make it of it yet but I think he has a point.”

“What point Sungmin?” asked the latter, “Point to nowhere? He’s not exactly the brightest star out there and it’s unfortunate he’s holding the fate of so many lives in the future.”

“Ah Eun-Hyuk, do you resent the CEO’s son?”

“No, I just think he’s an idiot.”

What the hell?

Ha-Jin found herself listening intently to their conversation.

“You’re talking about the future at a makeup launch. Really? Is this some sort of propaganda or something to make him look good?” asked the journalist named Eun-Hyuk, “Because to be honest, it’s a cry for help hidden behind a motivational speech.”

“That’s pretty mean.”

“But very honest. The guy’s too reckless yet he talks like he knows everything,” commented Eun-Hyuk, “His brother has done more than he has and yet he has the gall to tell everyone to partner with him in the future.”

He took another drink before continuing.

“It’s a shame. I don’t know if it’s a side-effect of being adopted.”

That’s it.

Ha-Jin couldn’t take the insults anymore. She got out of the pillar, her feet taking her towards the two. For a moment, she realized she knew that Eun-Hyuk; his name was a big one in all the papers. But she didn’t care.

It didn’t matter if it was the alcohol or herself talking; justice needed to be served and damn it if she wasn’t the one serving it.

She tapped him on the shoulder. The arrogant journalist then turned at her, drink in hand and annoyance on his face.

“Can I help you?” he asked.

Ha-Jin looked up at him indignantly. She hated that arrogant look on his face—even if she didn’t know him.

“Can I help you?” he repeated, clearly annoyed, “Hello? Lady? Do you need help?”

She stared beadily at him.

“Adoption doesn’t make people stupid like you,” she said, “Stop being so full of yourself.”

Ha-Jin didn’t know how it happened but before she could say anything, her hand, curved into a fist, violated the man’s face.

--

She was breathing heavily as she reached the gazebo. It was hard to run in her court lady attire but she had no choice; otherwise, people would get a clear look at the woman who punched a popular journalist with no fear. The running, however, immediately sobered her up.

Ha-Jin hoped no one caught a clear glimpse of her face. She didn’t want anyone associating her with that unpleasant image.

“Ugh why did I do that?” she asked herself as she reached the steps, “That was stupid! So stupid!”

It took her a second before she realized what she had done to Journalist Eun-Hyuk. As the man held his face in pain, she came to her senses. Before his friend or the journalist could fully register her, she made a run for it.

Hence, her appearance at the gazebo.

Her knees started to ache as she held on to one of the railings. She tried to catch her breath, gulping in air every five seconds. This wasn’t how she imagined her night at the launch—it was just supposed to be showcasing the products, listening to speeches, and smiling.

Not getting a little bit tipsy and punching someone in the face.

Ha-Jin looked back at the event, hoping no one noticed her quick exit. She immediately sobered up after that debacle.

“What do I do? What do I do?” she asked, “Ugh why did I have to punch that guy? Why?”

There was no other option but to leave the party. Ji-Woo was still nowhere to be found; Ha-Jin thought about leaving ahead of him. Besides, he could hitch a ride with Ki-Joo. But then she felt bad for considering leaving her dongsaeng just because she randomly punched someone in the face.

I’ll just stay here, she decided, Hopefully, there are other women dressed like me. He wouldn’t recognize me.

She took another deep breath and scolded herself for being so reckless. She shouldn’t have been so dramatic nor impulsive with her actions; but the way that man insulted Jae-Yeong triggered something inside—she couldn’t let him get away.

“There you are.”

Ha-Jin squealed, immediately backing up against the pillar, at the sound of the deep voice. The lighting inside the gazebo was pretty bad so she couldn’t make out the face of the tall stranger. Was it Tae-Won?

The approaching figure, however, wasn’t the youngest Hwang—it was the oldest.

Jae-Yeong walked towards her, both hands behind his back.

“I’ve been looking for you all night,” he said.

Despite the countless proceedings, he still looked fresher than the day; he had taken off his mask so she could now see his entire face. She wondered if he was tired from being hounded by people all day or if he perfected the art of keeping his cool.

“I…I’m sorry,” she said, “I…I talked to a lot of people.”

He chuckled, coming closer.

“I’m glad that you did,” he said with that knowing look on his face, “By the way, I heard an interesting story on my way here.”

“What interesting story?”

“Hmm…let me see,” he began, his hands rubbing his chin, “I didn’t think we’d have the actually need for a medic team because I figured that no one could probably get injured during the launch. You can imagine my surprise when I stumbled upon one of the newsmen loudly complaining to the approaching medics about his black eye—a big one, mind you.”

“When they asked him who did it, he said it was a random court lady.”

Ha-Jin felt tightened as Jae-Yeong’s smile faded from his lips. This time, he was looking at her seriously.

“There were plenty of random court ladies inside but only one was scurrying away from the scene of the crime,” he continued, “And I know of only one court lady who had the guts to hurt strangers.”

“That’s why I’m here.”

Jae-Yeong was devoid of all expressions as he said these but one look on his face indicated that he knew the culprit. Ha-Jin wondered if she was in big trouble, despite doing what she did for him.

“What happened?” he asked.

She fidgeted. Despite the countless times she stood up to him, Ha-Jin felt like a child caught in the act of stealing.

“I…well…I’m…” she stammered.

“Go Ha-Jin, I think you can do better than that.”

That serious expression on his face was seriously scaring her but she had to face the music.

With a sight, she began to explain. “That man…he was saying bad things about you,” she said, “He said you were a pathetic cry for help, that your speech was anything but motivational. I heard him tell his friend you were an idiot because you were adopted.”

Jae-Yeong listened to her intently. He said nothing so Ha-Jin figured it was his way of telling her to go on.

“I didn’t like how he spoke about you. He thinks he knows you but he doesn’t,” she continued, bowing her head, “I know I shouldn’t have done that but…I just can’t stand it when people say bad things about you.”

“You’re the last person who deserves it,” she concluded.

The sound of crickets echoed through the night as Ha-Jin awaited Jae-Yeong’s response. She kept her head bowed in shame. Her thoughtless actions would, no doubt, have some form of consequences, and the company might have to pay for it.

She didn’t imagine the night to end like this.

“I’m sorry,” she apologized, “I know it was wrong. I’ll go in and apologize if you want me to.”

She looked up at him and excused herself, making her way out of the gazebo. Her chest throbbed at the thought of saying sorry to that jerk.

“Ha-Jinah,”

Hearing her name, Ha-Jin looked back at him.

He said nothing else. In one sweep motion, he pulled her towards him and sealed her lips with a kiss.

Truly, she never thought the night would end like this.

--

A/N: I was supposed to upload the second chapter but I figured this one’s already long enough and ended it THAT way we’ve all been anticipating. I hope I made your day with the new chapter. I’ll give you more time to process this before I upload the next one.

Hoping to read more of your insights! As I’ve said, we’re in the middle so I’d appreciate more of your predictions. What do you think is going to happen next? What’s the interlude all about? What do you want to see?

I find it funny that Goblin’s origin was set in Goryeo. I highly encourage SHR fans to give Gong Yoo’s new series a try. It’s refreshing and worth the time, I swear. If that series ends in the same manner as SHR, I might just write a fan fic.