Jeongyeon

I looked over to her, sitting on the passenger seat, she had her eyes closed and was settled into an exhausted line. She was submitted to the local hospital and stubbornly demanded to get discharge and leave the next day. We were on our way back, some of the staff stayed to wrap things up. When I insisted that she should stay a bit longer at the hospital, she kept rebelling and glaring at me. She was behaving like a grumpy grandma. No more the woman that laughed at my joke, she was back to the aggressive, mean, woman.

Or so I thought,

I stared at the black-purple stripe cashmere wool cape that wrapped around her body. It was the same cape that someone had drop from the window during my punishment; when I had lost in a game and forced to stand outside in the cold. I averted my eyes back to the road infront.

Since then a few days had passed, I hadn't seen her for almost a week. We had no interaction as well. I was busy preparing and planning for the Mini Project and she was, I assumed as busy perhaps busier than I am. I heard she was opening a new branch building

The meeting with the Cruise Directors for the Mini Project had been scheduled at one of the prestigious Hirai Hotels. As I exited the building, I stood by the curb and waited for my car. However, my attention was soon drawn to a commotion of people gathered across the street.

Curiosity piqued, I turned to my secretary and asked, "What's happening over there?"

My secretary, ever diligent, replied, "It appears to be a street vendor, ma'am."

Concerned about the situation, I swiftly made a decision. "Handle it discreetly, please, before the chairman becomes aware. Notify City Hall to ensure no confiscation or fines. Send a lawyer to assist with any necessary legal procedures."

My secretary confirmed, "We've received a direct order. The Chairman has allowed this,"

Surprised by this revelation, I turned to my secretary, seeking confirmation. "He's allowed it?"

She nodded in affirmation. "Yes."

My gaze then shifted to the street vendor, who was just a few meters away. I considered our schedule and inquired, "Do we have enough time for this?"

With reassurance, my secretary replied, "Certainly. We have ample time before the meeting with the Cruise Directors."

A smile spread across my face as I decided, "Well, why not? Let's go grab a bite." I began strolling toward the street vendor, my curiosity piqued and my appetite eager for an unplanned meal. As I approached the street vendor, the employees who had been creating a commotion noticed my presence and hastily dispersed. I shook my head, signaling that I intended to wait in line like everyone else, and they need not clear a path for me.

When it was finally my turn to order, I perused the diverse menu, my eyes lingering on a particular item that tugged at my nostalgia – fish cakes and tteokbokki. It had been quite some time since I'd enjoyed such a meal. The vendor, upon seeing me, gasped in recognition. "Oh, it's you! Everything here is on the house. What would you like?"

"Free?" I uttered in surprise.

"Yes, just for you," the vendor confirmed with a warm smile.

Curiosity and gratitude mingled in my thoughts. I couldn't help but wonder if someone had orchestrated this unexpected treat, and one person immediately came to mind. How had she managed to persuade the Chairman to do this? Instead of a simple 'thank you,' she went to such lengths. I shook my head in mild disbelief before turning to the street vendor. With a grateful smile, I replied, "Tteokbokki and fish cakes, please. Two servings."

I glanced at my wristwatch, noting that the meeting had drawn to a close. En route to the next meeting with the travel agents, I realized it was lunchtime. As we passed a convenience store, a sudden idea flashed into my mind. With some extra time before the upcoming meeting, I wondered if she had eaten.

I turned my gaze towards the driver and said, "Let's make a quick stop at Haebaragi headquarters first."

The driver met my eyes through the rearview mirror and couldn't help but tease, "Ms. Jeongyeon, missing your fiancée?"

I chuckled in response and shook my head.

"Fiancée... I'm gradually growing accustomed to it," I mused quietly.

Nayeon

Haebaragi Galleria specializes in providing an extensive range of retail services, with a strong emphasis on department stores. In addition to our department stores, we also engage in various other retail ventures, which encompass online malls, direct sourcing of global brands, and the exclusive retailing of brands beyond my own clothing line, Haebaragi. Currently, we have three subsidiary branches of Haebaragi Galleria strategically located in major cities across Korea, including Seoul, Cheonan, and Daejon.

"In line with our commitment to meeting the escalating demand, this year, we are poised to embark on a significant expansion endeavor. Our next venture involves the opening of the largest Haebaragi Galleria, a grand three-story department store set to be established in Haundae, Busan." I announced, and the audience responded with enthusiastic applause.

Taking a step forward, I approached the stage. With a confident flourish, I removed the white cover, unveiling a meticulously crafted miniature representation of the future department store.

The project was initiated, and a dedicated team was assembled. this was the most substantial project I had ever undertaken in my career, and the weight of its success bore heavily on my shoulders. In this high-stakes venture, there was absolutely no margin for error, and the pursuit of perfection was our only option.

"The Chairwoman of Haebaragi Galleria. It's a pleasure to have this opportunity to meet you," he expressed, extending his hand for a handshake.

I extended my hand as a gesture of greeting, acknowledging Mr. Wong's reputation in the construction industry. Although his company had been marred by controversy, I had opted to change the construction company mid-project, based on the personal recommendation of Chairman Son. It was a decision fraught with risks, and it hadn't been made lightly. Choosing the right construction company carried substantial weight, especially considering that I had initially selected a local firm myself. However, circumstances had forced me to make an abrupt change.

Chairman Son'a proposal had swayed my decision. Without his personal involvement and the compelling offer, I might not have been inclined to entertain the idea of making such abrupt changes. However, the irresistible terms and conditions set forth in the proposal had ultimately convinced me to choose to collaborate with Mr. Wong.

The proposal———-held the intriguing possibility of me having the final say in determining the victor of the Mini Project.

While I harbored doubts about Chairman Son's intentions behind such a suggestion, I couldn't help but question the fairness and impartiality of my direct involvement in choosing the Mini Project's winner. It would raise an issue. He had assured me that my participation would remain strictly confidential. It would still be unethical.

Yet, I couldn't refuse it.

Son Chaeyoung.

It would be the only opportunity—-to end this ridiculousness—-to take back what was mine.

I looked at Mr Wong. With a firm handshake and a courteous smile, I responded, "The pleasure is mine, Mr. Wong."

As we exchanged pleasantries, I continued, "Shall we now delve into the purpose of our meeting today?"

"Certainly," he replied, gesturing to the seat across from him.

The project had commenced a few months ago, and the transition process between construction companies was in full swing. Ensuring the seamless transfer of all documents and responsibilities was important. However, the delays that had occurred in the process were causing issues, potentially impacting the planned opening date, which was something I wanted to avoid at all costs.

Suppressing a sigh, I addressed the situation, "HanBuild Construction Co. will be completing the handover of all documentation related to the construction process to Wong Construction Depot this week. I'm hopeful that construction can proceed as scheduled later this month. Haebaragi Galleria is committed to assigning a supervision team to oversee the project's execution to ensure its success."

The meeting had stretched on for hours before it eventually concluded. Surprisingly, it had gone far smoother than I had anticipated. As I settled into the backseat of my car for the drive back to headquarters, I gazed out the window. The sky displayed a brilliant shade of blue, signaling the approaching end of winter. I rolled down the window, extending my hand to catch the first hints of summer, feeling the gentle caress of sunlight on my skin. However, no matter how warm the rays, they couldn't quite reach the depth of my emotions. I let out a sigh and reclined in my seat.

Upon arriving back at the office, I exited the elevator and exchanged a glance with my secretary before stepping into my office. I inquired, "Has anyone paid a visit?"

My secretary confirmed, "Yes, indeed. A visitor was here but left a few moments ago."

A hopeful smile graced my lips as I asked, "Chaeyoung?"

She shook her head, her expression indicating otherwise. "No, it was Ms. Jeongyeon."

My shoulders slumped in disappointment. "Was she looking for me?"

My secretary clarified, "She merely inquired if you were on your way and briefly stopped by your office before departing."

I nodded toward my secretary and proceeded to enter my appointed office. As my gaze swept across the room, it was immediately captivated by an elegantly arranged tray placed meticulously upon my desk. My curiosity piqued, I approached the table. Before me, atop the polished wooden surface, I discovered a culinary delight – a steaming cup of perfectly cooked ramen accompanied by an array of freshly prepared kimbap. A small sticky note was plastered on the desk.

'Thank you for the meal,'

An involuntary scoff escaped my lips. I carefully set my file aside and, with a gentle pull, positioned my chair before the desk. I settled into the seat and found myself captivated by the inviting spread before me. The corners of my lips curled into a subtle smile. It had been a long day, and my stomach, which had gone unfed since the morning, demanded attention.

I sighed and reached for the chopsticks. However, just as I was about to take my first bite, my phone rang. I noticed that it was Chaeyoung calling. My heart warmed by the sudden interruption. I promptly set down the chopsticks, reaching for my phone. Gazing at the screen, I decided to let it ring for a few moments, not wanting to appear too eager. I watched the incoming call notification with a playful patience.

But, just as I was about to answer, the ringing came to an abrupt end, leaving me with a puzzled frown. Without hesitation, I immediately dialed Chaeyoung's number, and on the other end of the line, the call was met with a chuckle.

"You could've let it ring a bit longer," I grumbled.

Chaeyoung's laughter rang through the phone. "I know you're just teasing."

I adopted a mock-serious tone. "I'll have you know, I take my phone calls very seriously."

Chaeyoung's tone turned more earnest. "On a serious note, I heard something happened during the winter trip. Are you okay?"

I leaned back in my seat and stared at my thighs. "Yeah, it's nothing, really."

"That's a relief. Did you consult your doctor afterward? If this issue persists, maybe you should consider removing the implants."

"You know that's not an option. I don't want to risk ending up in a wheelchair, Chaeyoung."

"I understand your concerns, but..."

"I'll be fine," I interjected, "I've been managing this for years. I've got it under control." I sat up straight, a vivid memory of the incident during the winter trip suddenly surfacing. "Oh, and Chaeyoung, about that handkerchief you gave me... I... I'm so sorry, but I've lost it."

"Ah, the one with the green-eyed rabbit?"

I sighed, regret filled my throat, "Yes, that's the one. I should have taken better care of it."

With a reassuring tone, Chaeyoung replied, "It's alright. I can get you ten—or even hundreds of similar handkerchiefs."

I shook my head, my voice grew softer, "But it wouldn't be the same."

"Then, what can I do to ease your disappointment?"

I glanced at the untouched meal on the table, my appetite momentarily forgotten. I refocused my attention on Chaeyoung. "Buy me some food,"

"Hmm, what would you like to eat?"

It seemed that my response caught Chaeyoung off guard. "Ramen and gimbap."

"Ramen and gimbap?"

I affirmed, "Yes."

"That's new. Alright, I'll have my secretary arrange for it to be delivered to you."

My smile dropped, the anticipation of a lunch with Chaeyoung now dimmed. I was expecting a meal together, "You won't come?"

"I can't,"

I questioned, "Why? You mentioned you've fully recovered. Are you sure you're okay? I could visit you as soon as I arrive."

Chaeyoung assured, "I have indeed recovered. You don't have to go through all the trouble just to visit me. Besides, you're overseeing the opening of a new branch building; you must be quite busy."

"I always have time for you."

"My secretary will contact you once she's in front of your office, will that do?"

I pondered for a moment before responding, "Hmm."

"Sulking?"

"No, that's alright. Knowing that you brought the food is comforting in itself. Take some time to rest." I propped my chin on her palm and added, "Whenever you feel like it, come by. I've missed you."

The line remained silent for a moment. I called out, "Chaeyoung?"

After a brief pause, Chaeyoung finally replied, "Alright."

The call concluded, and I found myself fixating on the untouched meal before me. I stared at it. An uneasiness had settled in. Like a stubborn stupid puppy clinging on me. I didn't like it. I hated it. Without looking at it further, I shifted my focus to the files on my desk. Exiting my office, I paused at my secretary's desk. Without turning to face her, I spoke with a measured tone, "Dispose of the items on my desk and tidy up the room. Ensure that no one enters my office without prior permission, not even if it's my fiancée."

My secretary responded promptly, "Understood, Miss."

-to be continued-