"Someday everything will make perfect sense. So for now, laugh at the confusion, smile through the tears, and keep reminding yourself that everything happens for a reason."
— Anonymous

In the process of unloading her work materials, Seo Ara casually reached into the box in front of her and grabbed the pile of swatch binders and event ideas she had carefully compiled throughout her employment at Hotel Azure.

As she sorted thought the high stack, her pace slowed to a stop upon reaching the binder labeled "J&A"—the same inscriptions on the cardboard treasure chest hidden underneath her bed.

Lifting the ½" binder from the pile, she carefully flipped through its contents, and eventually landed on the page with tablecloth samples and a small selection of color schemes. The page across had pictures of neatly arranged bouquets and matching boutonnières, while the one after had three choices of varying wedding dress styles, along with a laminated Queen Anne's lace—the flower symbolizing haven and sanctuary—tucked safely inside the pocket protector.

It was the 40th and final present Junmyeon gave her, and the only monthly floral gift that came with a hand written note. A note that read, "Counting down to forever with you."

Ara traced a finger along the subtle outline of the preserved lace-like flower, unknowingly letting the throbbing pain she had meticulously tucked away, sneak past her consciousness and slither into her heart, constricting it.

You were my haven. You were my sanctuary. The one who helped me get through everything. The one who protected me and gave me hope. You were the only home I ever wanted. She thought, her eyes beginning to line with tears.

"You could've asked for a corner office you know," someone interrupted from a distance away. "It's much larger and has a better view," the individual continued rather merrily as they entered her office without waiting for an invitation.

Upon hearing the familiar voice, Ara set the binder face down on her desk and turned to her unexpected guest, breathing away the tightness in her chest and the oncoming waterworks. "Chairman Byun," she called, surprised to see the old man.

"I apologize for dropping by unannounced," her grandfather-in-law greeted with a light smile, "I was touring the property and figured I should stop by to welcome the newest addition to our team."

"Ah, well, thank you, and I'm sorry for the mess. I'm trying to get settled in quickly as possible. I know the next few weeks will be hectic. Please, have a seat," she replied as she gestured him to a vacant chair and began clearing some boxes out of the way.

"Don't bother with that dear," Chairman Byun ordered, stopping her from her brisk cleaning. "It's unfortunate you're transition coincided with the bittersweet convention season, but I'm certain you're more than capable of handling both agendas simultaneously," he added as he took a seat.

Ara smiled in response. It was more like three separate things at once—if you include her marriage—but she didn't have the heart to correct the old man. 

Just as she was about to offer him some drink instead, a younger voice called to the chairman, directing both their attention to the figure standing by the door.

With a short bow, her second guest entered the room and stood behind Baekhyun's grandfather with hands clasped neatly in front of him.

Ara settled her gaze on the tall, handsome, and rather regal man with sharp features and an impassive expression. She had seen him before on numerous occasions—first at her "wedding" and several times at the Byun Mansion—but they never had the chance to get acquainted.

"The introduction is long overdue, but this is Secretary Oh, head secretary of BYN Group and my personal assistant," Won Sul started as he glanced up at Sehun. "I've briefed him on the situation, so if he could be of any service to you, please don't hesitate to use him," he instructed.

"Understood," Ara replied politely before meeting the secretary's expressionless lenses, "It's nice to meet you. I'm Ara."

"The pleasure is all mine Ms. Seo," Sehun greeted, accompanied with another bow. "My name is Oh Sehun, and as the chairman said, please let me know if I can assist you with anything," he stated with an even tone. He then turned to the old man, whispered something in his ears, then took his leave.