KS Group
First day as CEO, everything went smoothly for Seulgi. He arrived at the building in a good mood and was welcomed by General Manager Moon Byulyi. All the way to his office, he was greeted by his staff. He responded with a smile and answered their greeting. However, he doesn't meet Irene at all. According to Eunbi, Irene arrived early today and had breakfast with them at the pantry. Even Seulgi can't texting Irene because she blocked his number, Seulgi still updated from Eunbi through Seungwan
"Sir, this is your office" GM Moon open the door for Seulgi
"Wow, look good" Seulgi impress by the design of his office
"Mrs. Kang design it personally based on your preference"
"Oh I see. No wonder color and arrangement suit my taste. By the way, GM Moon, are you going to assist me from now on?"
"Yes sir, President Kang appointed me to assist you on your daily work. You also have two other secretaries, Ms. Yoo Jeongyeon and Ms. Park Jihyo. Ms. Park is the one who arranges your schedule while Ms. Yoo assists you on meeting. One of them also will go with you two during your business trip. They will give Secretary Son briefing about their job"
"Okay"
Seungwan asked "When will they meet with me?"
"They will meet with you after our first meeting with CEO Kang. Firstly we are going to meet here for a daily schedule briefing. They will come here on 8:20"
They have light conversation while waiting for female secretaries. On 8:20 sharp, the secretaries come to CEO office and their meeting begin
"For your first day schedule, you will have a tour to every department with GM Moon. At 10:30 AM, you will meet with the head of departments. After lunch break, our COO Kang Yoona will come to see you in your office. That's all for your first day schedule" said Secretary Park
Seulgi was satisfied with the briefing. It is clear and arranged well "Alright, I like your work especially in giving instruction. Secretary Park and Secretary Yoo, I hope we will work well with each other. Don't be awkward with me and Secretary Son. Same goes to you Manager Moon. Even though I am the CEO here, that doesn't mean I know everything. I must learn a lot from all of you since you guys are seniors here. If I make mistake or careless, please don't hesitate to let me know" he said sincerely
"We will, sir"
.............
Seulgi, Seungwan and Manager Moonbyul go to every department to meet the staff. He also had a short talk with the manager about their department progress. So far, he don't see any problem occur in the office but he can't be happy yet since he haven't go through farther
Now they are in the department where Irene works. He and Seungwan listened to Manager Moon briefing. Both of them listen attentively. The staff bow politely as their CEO walks past them. Everyone look busy with their task
When they walk past Irene and her colleague who are having a discussion at the corner, Seulgi secretly looks at Irene. However, Irene only bowed to her without smiling. She looks like a stranger to him. Eunbi and Solar smile politely but not Irene. Seulgi is sad that Irene does not even spare a glance at him. He misses her so much. As much as he wanted to go to her place again, Seungwan did not allow him to go. Seungwan said he must give Irene space to cool down. He also promise that he will help him and Irene to get back again
"Sir, can we proceed to the next department?" Manager Moon voice bring Seulgi back from his thought
"Yes, Manager Moon. Let's go"
Meanwhile, Solar and Eunbi look at Irene who focuses on her laptop. When the others leave the table, they decide to ask Irene
"Rene, is everything okay?" Solar questioning slowly. She already knows that Irene and Seulgi breakup and she feels sorry for her best friend. She already expect they will have argument but she not expect until breakup
"What do you mean?" Irene furrowed her eyebrow
"About you and our CEO? Did he call you again after last time?"
"No, I block his number" Irene say nonchalantly
Solar and Eunbi look at each other "What if he needs to contact you regarding work?"
"He can call me through the office extension. I'm not going to deal with work related stuff at home"
"How about the trip to Daegu? You're not going to ask for a replacement, right?" Eunbi asking
"Of course not. I'm professional. I will not bring personal problems to the office. Besides, I involve directly for the event from the start so I must be there"
"That's good then"
Suddenly, their manager came towards them and said "Hey girls" . He greeted them in a friendly way as usual. Manager Lee Hyukjae is kind and friendly with his staff so they are comfortable with him
"Hey Manager Lee, what's up?" Solar asking
"I just received a memo from our GM. He said Eunbi-ssi will go to Daegu with Irene-ssi"
"Seriously, sir?" Eunbi startled
"Yes, this is order from our CEO"
"Okay sir, I don't have a problem with that. Besides, I also involved in the event planning so I know a bit" said Eunbi
"That's good then. You two will have a meeting with the CEO tomorrow to talk about the trip. GM also said the trip will be extend until Saturday because CEO want to visit KS Hypermarket, Daegu"
Irene's eyes widened "Are we involved too?"
"Yes, since you two are part of the trip"
"Okay then"
"That's all for now. Don't forget the meeting tomorrow. His secretary will send email to both of you regarding the meeting schedule"
"Okay sir"
After Manager Lee leave, they gossiping again "Yaa, this must be CEO idea" said Solar
"I think so" Eunbi agree
"He always does whatever he thinks is right. I know this must have something to do with a personal issue that's why he wants you to be there" Irene reasoning "But at least, I have someone to talk with. I still not in mood to talk with Seungwan, not to mention his boss"
"Cheer up, Rene" Solar pats Irene shoulder softly
.......................
Gimpo Airport
Irene and Eunbi arrived at the airport for their trip to Daegu with their boss. They sit on the bench while waiting for Seulgi and Seungwan arrival
"Aish, what takes them so long?" Irene grunt. It has been 15 minutes since they arrived but the duo still not show up
"Calm down, unnie. Maybe they are on their way. Don't tell me that you excited to meet our boss" Eunbi teasing Irene
"Kwon Eunbi, do you want to ride outside of the plane?" Irene glare at the younger girl
"Chill, unnie" Eunbi cackle
From afar, they noticed a group of men in suits enter the main entrance. They know that it is Seulgi and his men. He walk arrogantly through the crowd escorted by his bodyguard
"Not only the CEO is handsome but his bodyguards too" Eunbi said suddenly. Irene rolled her eyes. Not in mood to give respond to Eunbi
Seulgi who enters the airport followed by his bodyguards and his secretary quickly walk to the bench where Eunbi and Irene are waiting for them. This time he does not bring along his female secretary to avoid suspicion because he wants to approach Irene at Daegu later. Many eyes look at them in awe since they are surrounded by bodyguards and their outfit catches everyone's eyes. Seulgi always with his cool and charismatic aura while Seungwan walk loyally behind Seulgi showing that he is right-hand man of the handsome CEO Kang Seulgi
[Seulgi]
[Seungwan]
"Seul" Seungwan whisper to Seulgi
"Yep"
"Irene noona looked pretty" Seungwan commented as soon as he spotted Irene and Eunbi
"You can see but touch. Don't fall in love at her or you want me to take over Eunbi" Seulgi joking
"Yaa, I'm just praising her. I don't have intention to take noona away from you" Seungwan protest
Seulgi laughing lightly "I know"
"Irene noona straight face is very scary"
"I agree with you"
"By the way, Eunbi looked very cute in winter outfit. This is the first time I see her wearing a casual outfit. I think Eunbi and I are meant for each other. We even wore matching color" Seungwan chirped happily as he saw Eunbi wearing an all black outfit like him. He can't wait to talk to his soon-to-be sweetheart
"Calm down your hormone, dude" Seulgi said innocently
"I'm not pervert" Seungwan groan
"Good evening, sir" Eunbi greeted then she and Irene bow their head
"Good evening. Sorry we're late. We stuck on traffic jam earlier" said Seulgi
"It's okay, sir. We understand"
One of the bodyguards came with four cups of coffee "Sir, this is coffee that you order. Two Americano, one latte and one cappuccino"
"Give latte to Ms. Bae and cappuccino for Ms. Kwon. Americano for me and Seungwan" said Seulgi
"Okay, sir"
"Thank you" Irene said to the bodyguard
They sit on the bench while waiting for boarding time. Seungwan sits beside Eunbi while Seulgi quickly takes the vacant seat beside Irene. She want to avoid him but he quickly grab her wrist to stop her
"Sit here, I promise I'm not going to burden you" Seulgi said softly
.............
In the plane, Irene was shocked when Seungwan said she sat beside Seulgi while Eunbi with him. She does not hesitate to glare at the CEO because he knows this is his plan. She can't argue since her name is already written on the ticket and sits on that seat. She groan and stomp her feet to her place
"I feel bad" Seulgi lips tugged downwards
"Calm down, oppa. She may be angry but not going to eat you alive" Eunbi said casually
"I hope so" Seulgi slump his shoulder
"One thing you should know is that unnie is scared of heights. She may or may not hold on to you when we take off later. She always needs someone beside her whenever we ride the plane. If not, she will cry. Unnie really can't deal with height"
Seulgi nods his head "Noted, I will make sure she's safe"
"Okay"
"Shall we go to out seat?" asked Seungwan
"Okay"
Eunbi and Seungwan sit a few seats away from Seulgi and Irene. Seungwan tapping Eunbi shoulder
"Are you scared like Irene noona?"
"Nope, nothing can scare me except my mom" Eunbi say confidently
"Aigoo" Seungwan pouting
"Why? Do you expect me to scare like Irene unnie so that you can hold me?" Eunbi guessing around
"Yes"
Eunbi laughing at Seungwan innocent response "You can hold my hand if you want"
"Really?" Seungwan eyes sparkle
"Yup" Eunbi hold out her hand then Seungwan intertwine their hands
"Now look better" Seungwan giggle
Meanwhile, Seulgi sits silently beside Irene. It's not that he doesn't want to talk but he still thinks of the right words to say. What if Irene scolds him if he initiates their conversation? What if he looks like a fool speaking alone while Irene does not respond to him? He sighs as he think of a lot of probability that could happen
However, he make up his mind and try to communicate with her "Hyun" he tap her arm lightly
"What?" as expected, she give cold respond to him
"I'm sorry if you're not comfortable sit beside me"
Irene glared coldly at Seulgi "This must be your plan, right? So that you can sit beside me"
"I'm sorry, Hyun"
"Nothing to be sorry for. Things happened so just let it be"
Seulgi speechless. He decided to not talk anymore. If only his people know that the great CEO Kang Seulgi is scared of Bae Joohyun, he thinks he will bury himself into the ground. No one can subdue him except the scary woman beside him. He not even dare to look up when Irene scold him
They are preparing to take-off. Seulgi remembered Eunbi told him about Irene. He secretly looked at her with his eyes corner. Irene clearly looked panicked. She shut her eyes tightly as the plane moved. Seulgi braves himself to hold Irene's hand. He hope she not let his hand go
What he thinks is right. Irene startled when she felt Seulgi hold her hand. She try to pull away but he tighten his grip and lean closer
"Please, just this time. I know you're scared. Don't resist, okay?" Seulgi say softly
Irene lightly nods her head. She gives in since she's really scared whenever the plane take-off. It has been a while since she held hands with Seulgi. She mentally admits that she missed his hands and that his fingers slipped perfectly between hers. Sadly, Seulgi himself make her hard to soften her heart
After a while, they already let go of each other's hand. Seulgi reading documents on his Ipad. He didn't notice Irene dozed off beside her until he looked to his left. He put down his Ipad then fixed the blanket that covered Irene's body to keep her warm. He takes this chance to admire her sleeping face. Without him noticing, single tears fall down his cheek. He missed her so much. He regret for not telling her early and keep lot of secret from her even she tell her many things about herself
"I missed you, honey" he said mentally then sit properly after wipe his tears
......................
They arrived at KS Hotel welcomed by the hotel manager. The manager gives an access card to them. Irene hope Seulgi not planning something stupid this time and thankfully he's not
"Sir, this is access card for presidential suite at 30th floor" Manager Hwang give the card to Seungwan
"Thanks" Seungwan smile
"Ma'am, this is access card for VIP room number 2 at 29th floor"
"Okay" said Irene and Eunbi. Both of them will share a room since the VIP room has two bedrooms. Same goes to Seulgi and Seungwan. They also will share presidential suite
"Sir, ma'am...do you all want something to eat? I will ask our staff to deliver it to your room"
"I want warm milk," Seulgi stated, making everyone look at him weirdly except Seungwan. The shorter guy holding his grin since he know Seulgi always have weird antic
Seeing the manager looking at him with shock face, Seulgi speak "Don't tell me you all don't serve milk at night"
"Y-yes sir, we only serve milk for breakfast"
Seulgi waving his hand "I want to drink milk and that milk must be from XX brand. Warm it first before delivering it to my room. Go buy it at the supermarket. Don't try to give me other brand, I know the taste"
"Okay sir, I will ask our staff to buy it"
"Good. I want to eat scrambled eggs and sausages. Don't forget to sprinkle pepper on the egg and I want mustard sauce for sausage, understand?"
"Noted sir"
"Let me add, the egg must be two pieces and not overcooked. Sausage jumbo size from XX brand, not overcook too" said Seungwan
"Good~" Seulgi patting Seungwan head proudly
"I want a medium portion of cheesy kimchi tuna fried rice with sunny-side-up on top. Drink, I want ice tea" Seungwan said
"Okay sir"
"Lastly, whenever I come here...I want my food and drink to be from the brand that I prefer. My tongue does not suit different brands. If I find out you all give me foods and drink that I don't like, I will give negative review" said Seulgi
"I understand sir. We will try our best to give good service"
"Good"
Then the manager turned to Irene and Eunbi. The girls only request a light meal. They feel sorry for the hotel staff who will struggle to deal with the CEO's troublesome antics. Irene gives an annoying look to Seulgi for demanding this and that from the staff while Eunbi just speechless. He is the owner of the hotel but isn't it too much asking them to serve meals from a specific brand like they are requesting food from their maid. If only they are not in current situation, Irene already smack his head to make his brand functioning well
"Seul, why do you request a breakfast-like meal?" Seungwan asking after they enter the elevator
"I don't eat heavy meals at night. This is too late to eat something heavy"
Seungwan rolled his eyes "Eww, we ate a three tier burger recently at 11 PM. You still fine with that"
Seulgi giggle "I have function tomorrow so I must have strict diet tonight"
"Okay, I got it"
Elevators stop at the 29th floor where the VIP room is located. Eunbi and Irene get ready to go out. The duo give way for them to walk
"Goodnight" they bow lightly
"Goodnight Eunbi, goodnight noona" Seungwan says cheerfully
Irene steps out first then Eunbi. Suddenly, she hears Seulgi voice "Goodnight Hyun! Sweetdream!" she sighs heavily
Eunbi still giggles as she unlocks the door for them. They drag their suitcase into the room then plop themselves on the couch
"Our boss is really funny" Eunbi said
"Instead of funny, annoying suit him well" Irene say nonchalantly
"By the way unnie, I don't know that he is really picky. Has he behaved like that before?" Eunbi curious
"He is never picky when he is with me. He eats everything that I cooked but we can't jump to conclusion since that time he still covers his identity. Maybe he force himself to eat the foods"
Eunbi agree with what Irene said "You're right, unnie"
"Hm, I want to wash up first before our food arrive" Irene stand up and stretch her body
"Okay unnie"
....................
Next morning, Eunbi and Irene go to the restaurant on the 3rd floor to have breakfast. They are wearing casual clothes since the function will be held at 11 AM. They still have lot of time to spend before dress up with formal attire
After taking their food from the buffet table, they sit at a vacant table near the window and have light talk while eating their food. Suddenly, someone presence distract them
"Good morning, noona and Eunbi"
"Good morning, oppa" Eunbi smile sweetly
"Morning" said Irene
"Can I join?"
"Sure, have a sit"
"Oppa, where are your foods? Are you eating in your room again?" Eunbi noticed that Seungwan come without food
"I already ordered my food. They will bring it here later"
"Okay, what about our boss?"
"Boss is still sleeping. He is sleepyhead"
"Oh I see" Eunbi said then continue eating
Seungwan looking at Irene who focus on eating, not interested to join their conversation "Noona"
Irene turn her attention to Seungwan "Yup"
"Do you still resent me?" Seungwan asked with guilt
Irene put down her utensil to focus on Seungwan "I told you that I forgive you. Even though I angry, I mean my words"
"But you ignore my presence" Seungwan pouting
"I don't have intention to ignore you but Seulgi's presence makes me not in mood to talk with you" Irene heaved a soft sigh "I do have little resentment at you but I know you're not the one that I should put the blame on. You have nothing to do with this issue but the fact that you are not being honest to me and lying to Eunbi at the same time make you impacted. Not only you but the bodyguard too. I remember their faces. If possible I want to scold them too!" Irene let out her dissatisfaction
Seungwan looked at his laps. "I already told Seulgi to open up but he kept delaying it. He wants to tell you a day before the dinner but everything is too late. Both of you are busy at that time. Seulgi is just too carried away by the situation that makes him not able to be honest to you. He don't want you to hate him"
"Isn't it worse when I find it out myself? Is this the situation that he wants? I can tolerate it if he tells me the truth during our first meeting. I will be upset, I seriously will do but at least I hear from him. Five months, Seungwan...five months we're dating and our relationship is filled with lies. I let him know what happened to me and what I do on a daily basis but he just lied to me in return. I'm sure there are a lot of things that I still don't know" Irene speaking firmly makes Seungwan scared. His mouth automatically shut because Irene spoke the truth. His thought going back to the first time Seulgi told him that he meet a woman through dating apps and he admit that Seulgi lie a lot to Irene
"I'm sorry for not helping, noona" Seungwan speak after few minutes
"Don't apology on his behalf"
"Is there no more chance for him?"
"I don't think I can go more than a professional relationship. I don't want to deal with liars. For now I just want to focus on work. Me and him is over on the day I declare our breakup or to be exact, during dinner night"
"Okay" Seungwan looked at Eunbi's eyes and they exchanged glances. Now they are not sure if their plan will success
.....................
Irene means her words that she will be professional in her job. During the event, she assists Seulgi professionally like nothing happened between them. Since their breakup, this is the first time Seulgi walks closely with Irene and the longest conversation they have. Sadly, the conversation is about business only. No more, no less
"Irene Noona is very professional. Look, she is very comfortable with Seulgi" Seungwan whisper to Eunbi while staring at Irene and Seulgi who talking with the store manager
"Unnie is professional. She mean her words"
"Bi, I'm worried if our plan will not work. I don't see any chance to make it work. Noona is so tough" said Seungwan
"Don't worry, we will find other way"
"I don't want my plan to fail. I want to date you" said Seungwan. Eunbi just reply with chuckle then she walk around the store
The event went successfully. They go back to the hotel to rest. Tomorrow they will go to KS Hypermarket for their CEO first visit
......................
Seungwan invites Eunbi and Irene to hangout with him and Seulgi. However, Eunbi come alone to the lobby
"Where is Joohyun?" Seulgi immediately asking
"She said she was going out to meet someone. She leave about one hour ago"
Seulgi slumped his shoulder as he heard the answer. Seungwan wrapped his arm around Seulgi's shoulder "Cheer up, dude. I'm sure that is not her new boyfriend" he received light punch on his tummy from Seulgi
Tonight they go out without bodyguards. Seulgi gives his men free time since he doesn't have formal events to attend. He let them rest before start new day
Before strolling around, they go to a Korean food restaurant to fill their tummy. The restaurant is a bit crowded with customers but they manage to find a vacant table. They order many types of foods. At the same time, Eunbi worries if the food does not suit Seulgi taste. She still remembers the scene last night. Seulgi excuse himself to the toilet after the waiter leave
"Oppa, what if Seulgi oppa can't eat these foods? He is quite picky" Eunbi stated her worries
Seungwan cackle "Don't worry, Seulgi will eat a lot"
"But last night he request many things"
"Look...Seulgi is very concerned about the food that he eats. When he is in his rich kid mode, he will act like that. He must eat and drink from a certain brand. That is because at their mansion, they are served food and drink from selected brands only. His family tied a contract with those food brands to supply the best quality food to their mansion. If the food suit their tongue, they will renew the contract annually but if not, they will find other brand"
Eunbi amazed "Wow, rich family can do whatever they wanted"
"Yeah" Seungwan wiggles his eyebrows. "If he hangs out with us, he can eat anything. Well, at least now he can cope with our environment unlike before. As soon as he is free to go out, I introduce him to many things that he has never experienced. Seulgi's life was very private until he finished high school. He lives practically like a prince. When he graduated, his parents gave permission to explore around but I must be there with him and also his bodyguards must follow us a certain distance. But now he is good at socializing and has many acquaintances. He was quick to make friends because of his friendly attitude and not being arrogant. Everyone liked him very much even though he came from a rich family. Seulgi also did not choose friends. He has friends who come from a variety of backgrounds"
"No wonder you two look like sibling"
"Yeah"
"You're from rich family too but you not like him"
Seungwan grin "My parents are not really strict and protective so I can enjoy my life like other kids my age. Besides, I'm not the main successor of my family business. I step back to help Seulgi. He personally asks my parents so that I can go anywhere with him. They don't have a problem since Mr. Kang and my dad are friends and business partners. They also part of investor in my family business so impossible they will reject his request"
Seulgi came back from the toilet but his expression looked different. Somehow, he looked puzzle
"Seul, what's wrong?"
"I saw Joohyun just now. She just arrived but she don't see me"
Seungwan and Eunbi look around, then they see Irene at the other side of the restaurant. She not come alone but with two people
"Who are them?" Seulgi asking curiously
"That is her twin brother and her sister-in-law. Bae Junmyeon and Kim Jisoo. Her sister-in-law is five months pregnant" Eunbi said
"No wonder they looked alike. Identical twin" Seungwan commented
"I know she has a sibling but I don't know that they are twins. She also never shows his picture. I thought he stay at Seoul too" said Seulgi
"No, Junmyeon oppa work at KS Hypermarket"
"Really?" Seulgi eyes widened
"Yeah, he is supervisor"
"Okay"
"Seul, do you want to greet them?" Seungwan teasing his friend
"No, I don't want to disturb their bonding time. Let her spend time with her family" Seulgi giving warm smile to the people in front of him "Why is it so hard for her to forgive me?" he rubbed his face
Eunbi sighs "Unnie used to cheat by her boyfriend back then but that is not the only reason she hates someone who lies to her. It has something to do with her family. However, we don't know the details. Unnie never tells us about her family issue. We understand though, it is too personal. She just said that she hate liar because of certain incident happened to her family in past" Seulgi just nods in response
...................
Irene arrived at her apartment from the office. Today she went back a bit late since she needed to finish monthly report. Every month she will work overtime together with some of her colleagues to settle monthly reports that they will submit to Manager Lee. She lazily walks to the elevator until the familiar voice calling her name. She hate that voice so much
"Irene!"
She turned around and glared at him "Song Mino, what are you doing here?"
The guy named Mino showed his playboy smile "I come to ask you out. Let's go"
"How many times shall I tell you that I don't want to go out with you? Stop hoping that I will be your girlfriend. It will never happen"
"Irene, please consider my feelings. I promise I will make you happy" Mino pleading shamelessly
"You are still the same playboy that sleeps around with many girls. Don't think I don't know"
"Irene! Don't ever try to say bad things about me!" Mino shout
"Why? Would you be embarrassed if someone knew the son of Song Company is the biggest playboy?" Irene smirk
Mino grabs Irene's wrist and grip tightly "Don't challenge me, Irene-ssi. You will regret saying such thing to me" he said angrily
"Mino, let me go!" Irene yell
Mino not letting Irene go. He tries to drag her with him until he feels his jaw almost broken because someone punched him. Mino fall to the ground while holding his jaw
"Yah!" he yelling to anyone who dare to punch his face
"What a coward. How dare you treat women harshly?"
Mino's eyes widened as he saw a figure in front of him "C...CEO Kang?"
Seulgi smiles while holding Irene's hand "Yes, I am CEO Kang Seulgi. The biggest shareholder of Song Company"
"S-sir" Mino shaking in fear then he bow to Seulgi
"I can't believe that the future CEO of the company that I invest in is this rude. What a shame" Seulgi gave a disgusting look to Mino "Just in case you don't know, you're harassing my girlfriend!"
"Your girlfriend?" Mino asking in disbelieve
"Yes, Bae Joohyun is my girlfriend and you are trying to harass her. You're lucky that I have not taken any action yet when I know that you often disturb her. I'm waiting for this day to give you lesson"
"I'm sorry, sir" Mino looked so scare
"Sadly your sorry will not change anything. I'm thinking of making a police report regarding your underground activities. Mino-ssi, I know you're involved in drug and human trafficking, underground bar and own many underground casino. You and your friends also make Irene as a bet. I have strong evidence to bring you to court. Once I do that, I will make sure you will receive insane punishment through law and myself. You know I can manipulate law, right?" Seulgi flashing an evil smirk. Irene gasped silently when she knew the bad side of Mino. She knows Mino is not a good person but she does not expect this far. She is angry when she know Mino and his friends betting on her
"Sir, please...I promise I will not disturb Irene again...I regret my action"
"I give you an option...if you surrender yourself to the police station, I will not get involved in your case but if you don't want to, then I will do it for you and get ready to receive any sort of punishment that is out of your imagination. I will give you a chance to think until sunrise tomorrow. I'm waiting for good news from you"
"Okay sir, I will give decision tomorrow"
"Good, now leave this place. Don't ever appear in front of me and Irene anymore"
Mino quickly ran away from their sight. Seulgi turns around to check Irene's condition. He is really worried about her. Luckily he follow her from their office building earlier, if not Irene might be in danger right now
"Hyun, are you okay?" Seulgi caresses the red mark on Irene's wrist. It must be hurt that the red mark obviously seen
"I'm okay" Irene mumble
"I promise no one will disturb you like Mino did. I will make sure he rotten in jail"
"Is it true that he made a bet on me?"
Seulgi nods his head "Yes"
"How do you find out?"
"I send my men to go undercover when we find out about Mino always disturbing you. My men dig out detailed information about him, that's why I know about his underground activities. At first we don't know his bad intention until my men follow him to his bar and they talk about the bet. He met you today maybe has something to do with the bet. It is planned properly but I'm not going to tell you the rest. It will only hurting you"
Irene shut her eyes and sighs "Thank you for coming tonight"
"Don't mention it, Hyun. It's my responsibility to protect you. I know we're not dating anymore but I will never leave you out of my sight. No matter what happen, I always make sure you're safe and sound" Seulgi said in sincerity
Irene nods her head lightly. Seulgi spoke again, "You don't need to come to the office tomorrow. Just rest your mind. Today a lot of things are shocking you. I want you to rest"
"I'm fine. I don't need to..."
Seulgi cut off "This is my order. I'll tell manager Lee that you take a day off. Tomorrow is Friday so it's okay if you not coming"
Irene give in since she don't want to argue anymore "Okay"
"Do you need help to treat your reddened wrist? I can do it for you or you want Eunbi help?"
"No, I can do it myself"
"Okay then, let me walk you upstairs"
"It's okay, I will go alone. You should go home now"
"Alright, goodnight Hyun"
"Goodnight"
Seulgi stares at the girl who walks slowly to the elevator. His lips formed a small smile while staring at the figure that he missed so much. Now he is happy because Irene is free from danger. He go home after make sure Irene safely enter the elevator
..................
Business world was shocked by the news of Song Mino's involvement in illegal activities. It appears in news all around the country. The news said that the future successor of Song Company surrendered himself to the police station early in the morning. At first people did not believe it but the police showed strong evidence to prove his guilt.
The news of Mino detention gave a huge impact to Song Company. Now the real estate business that his family owns is shaking when the companies that work with them have cancelled their cooperation after the news of him being involved in various illegal activities. Investors also one by one withdrew their investments in the company following the news. The company's situation deteriorated when KS Group, which is a major shareholder in the company, also withdrew their shares. With the loss of KS Group as their main investor, the future of Song Company is predicted to get darker and the chances of bankruptcy are getting bigger
"Song Company will seriously disappear soon," said Seungwan as he read the news on his Ipad. He is busy reading the updated news about Song Company
"That is all Mino's fault. If only he does not harass Joohyun, his family will not lose their business this early" Seulgi sip his coffee then lean back on the couch. He cancel all his schedule today
"Eunbi said noona is not coming today"
"Yup, I asked her to stay at home"
"So, she still listened to you"
Seulgi rubbed his face "She looked scared last night. Her wrist hurt too. I'm so worry about her but I can't contact her"
"You can contact her through office line"
"No, I don't want"
"I will ask Eunbi to keep you updated"
"Alright"
Seungwan pats Seulgi's arm "Slowly approaching her again. I'm sure her heart will soften when she sees your effort. I believe that she still loves you too. It is impossible for her to move on so fast. While it is still early, you should make a move. Show her that you sincerely apologize and regret all your actions. Don't repeat the same mistake ever again. If only you listen to me, the situation will not be like this. Maybe you already introduce her to your parents"
Seulgi lips corner tugged downwards "I will try my best to gain her trust again"
"That's my boy" Seungwan chuckle while squeezing Seulgi shoulder
.......................
During lunch time, Seulgi decides to visit Irene at her apartment. He stops at the restaurant to buy food then goes to the florist to buy a bouquet of tulips. After that, he continued his journey to his destination. Even though he looked calm and collected but deep inside, he was so nervous. He thinking of Irene acceptance when he suddenly appear at her door
Seulgi waited nervously after ringing the doorbell. He carried a flower bouquet and plastic bag that contained food that he bought. After a few minutes, Irene opened the door. She wearing casual clothes since she just stay at home
"Seulgi?" her eyebrows knitted. She surprise seeing Seulgi show up at this time
"Yup, tulips for you" Seulgi give the flower bouquet to Irene
"Thanks" Irene smile shortly
"Can I enter?"
"Sure" Irene led Seulgi to living room
"Hyun, I bought food just in case you not eat your lunch yet" Seulgi put the plastic bag on the table
"What about you? It is supposed to be lunch time now. Why do you come here instead?"
"I come here to have lunch together with you. I hope you don't mind"
"Okay, I don't mind"
Seulgi quickly take out the lunch box then give one to Irene "I bought your favorite food and bubble tea"
"Thank you"
Both of them eat in silence. No one starts the conversation. Both are focused on their foods. Seulgi finishes first then drinks half of his watermelon juice. Following him, Irene also finished eating. She put the rubbish inside the plastic bag then brought it to the kitchen. Few minutes later, she return to living room
"Hyun, is your wrist still hurt?" Seulgi initiate their talk
"Not anymore, I compress with ice pack last night and this morning" Irene showing her wrist that Mino grab last night
"That's good then" said Seulgi "Hyun, I want to talk about us"
Irene looked at Seulgi who was also staring at her with sad eyes "Tomorrow meet with me at the park near my apartment at 4 PM. We will talk there"
"But Hyun..."
"Do you want to clarify the issue or not?" Irene intimidate the CEO with her eyes
"I-I want" Seulgi stutter
"So just listen to me. Go back to the office. Lunch time is almost over. Don't stuck on traffic jam"
"I'm free from any schedule today"
"But that doesn't mean you don't have work to do in your office, don't you? You choose to abandon your work or you will never see me ever again?"
Seulgi gave in. "Alright, I will go back to the office but we confirm to meet tomorrow, right?"
"Yup, if you late then 4:05 PM then no more chance for you"
"Okay, I will arrive early" Seulgi said confidently
"Alright, now go"
Irene walks Seulgi to the door "Bye Hyun. See you tomorrow" Seulgi brightly said. He is in a good mood now
"Em"
.........................
Today is Saturday but Seulgi unusually wakes up before 10 AM. Usually he will spend his weekend sleeping until afternoon. He rarely has breakfast on Saturday and Sunday except when his mother or sisters come to his house and make fuss. However, today is different. Seulgi is excited to meet with Irene this evening. Even they it still too long until 4 PM but he need to prepare himself to look good
Early in the morning, he went for a morning run at the park with his bodyguard. After that he goes to the salon to cut his hair and shave his facial hair. He also asked the maid to iron his clothes properly. Since he is in good mood, he cook lunch for himself
At 3 PM, he leaves his house. The distance is not really far but he wants to avoid traffic jams or any probability that could make him arrive late at the park. No way will he miss this chance. It has been a month since he talk with Irene so he will do his best to be there as early as he can
"Yes, I arrived early!" he said happily as he parked his car at the parking lot. He check the time and it still 20 minutes until 4 PM
He grabs his warm coffee then looks for a good spot to sit. Chilling to calm his mind is not bad before their encounter
..................
Meanwhile, Irene still lazes at her apartment watching weekend drama while eating apple slices. She is not rushing since the park is just five minutes from her place. When the drama finish, she go to change her clothes
As usual, she takes a walk to the park through the pavement that connects the apartment building and the park. She walks leisurely to enjoy the good weather. There are a lot of people at the park. Kids running around. Some are have picnic with family while couples are enjoying their winter date
From her place, Irene can clearly see Seulgi sitting on the bench under a shady tree. He was wearing a brown jacket with black turtleneck underneath, denim jeans, red sneakers and shades. His fashion obviously shows that he has a great fashion sense. Irene can't help but form a small smile on her lips. She slowly approaching him
"Can I sit?" she asked
Seulgi was startled because he is too immersed in watching video on his phone. He don't notice Irene arrival until he hear her voice "Yes, have a sit" he said
Irene sat comfortably beside Seulgi "Do you wait too long?"
"No, I just arrived"
"Don't lie"
Seulgi scratch his nape "I-I arrived 15 minutes ago"
"Isn't it good if you can be honest in everything? Why must take it easy even for just a small matter? Do rich people usually lie?" Irene ask coldly
Seulgi hung his head low "I'm sorry"
"It's okay. Now tell me your lies since first day you woo me in dating apps" Irene stated
Seulgi gulped down his saliva. He doesn't have a choice but to be honest to Irene. He doesn't want to keep anything from her. He doesn't want to regret it again. It's now or never
Irene chuckled bitterly after Seulgi ended his story "I know right. The secrets and lies that you keep from me are beyond my imagination. Why am I so dense, especially about your working hours? I'm stupid that I don't notice many things during our video call or you're a pro liar that you able to make your time is same as mine"
"I apologize for all the lies that I made. I'm very sorry. Please forgive me, Hyun. I don't want to have cold war with you anymore" Seulgi pleading
"I forgive you but make sure there is nothing that you hide from me"
"I promise, no more lie now"
Then Irene looked at Seulgi again "One more thing, stop making Eunbi as your reporter" Seulgi eyes turn wide in shock "Don't think I don't know that she keeps you updated about me. I see a glimpse of your conversation that is why I stop telling Eunbi whatever happens to me. She don't know that Mino disturbing me again and you ask me to take a day leave after the incident"
"I just worry about you so I asked her to look after you for me"
"I can take care of myself"
"But I want to protect you even just from far. I still love you, Hyun. One month is enough to make me feel like hell and live with regret. I can't bear it anymore living without you. I know I lie a lot but my love for you is not a lie. It's real, Hyun. Please give me last chance to love you" Seulgi said with tears
Irene shoved her hands inside her jacket pocket and squeezing her hot pack "I have a big trauma with liar"
Seulgi's face full of curiosity "Cheat by your ex-boyfriend?"
"Yes but it still not that hurt compare to big liar in my own family"
"Care to open up?" Seulgi asked carefully "It's okay if you don't want to tell more"
"My mom secretly married a rich man who is her ex-boyfriend at high school and also the CEO at the company where she works. That time, she was still a legal wife to my dad. We still live like a happy family until one day, we plan to give a surprise visit to her and have lunch together. Sadly, we're given the biggest surprise. We witness it in front of our eyes, she walks out of the building holding hands with him. They are so sweet with each other. Mom left with him without noticing our presence. We go home with a broken heart. The lunch also cancelled"
"When mom arrived at home, appa interrogate her. He showed the picture that he took. Junmyeon and I also told her that we saw them with our own eyes. We're 16 years old that time so we understand the situation. In the end, she told us the truth that she secretly married to his ex-boyfriend about a year. My heart broke into pieces when I hear the revelation. Their wedding was held at overseas that's why none of us know about it. That man blocking any news about their wedding so that appa not find it out. We thought she's properly working at that company but sadly she have affair with her boss"
"Appa was still calm until she confessed. He silently goes to their bedroom then comes back with her suitcase. Appa kicked her out instantly that night and declared their divorce. He looked fine in front of us but behind the closed door, appa cried his heart out. He loves mom so much but she betrays him and makes so many lies. After their divorce, appa health dropped. He is often admitted to hospital because of sleeplessness, malnutrition and depression. He died when we're 20 years old because his body was too weak to receive treatment. Since that day, I have only had Junmyeon as my family. Only him where I depend on. Even though he is younger than me by a few minutes, he feels like a big brother. He protects me and works part time to support both of us. He does not allow me to help him work. Appa saving is enough to support us for a few years but he doesn't want to waste it so he works part time after school. I'm happy that he met his happiness early. At least I know he have happy life with his wife"
"Did your mother still visit you after she left your house?" Seulgi speak for the first time after listen to Irene story
"She came during appa funeral but we refused to see her. We still resent her even until now. Me and Junmyeon are happy with our life now without her. When we graduated from university, we received job offers from certain companies. We find out that the company belongs to her husband so we reject it. That company keeps sending offers. In the end, both of us applied at KS and accepted. Since then, no more job offers from that company. Maybe they afraid of KS"
"No one dares to take away KS staff. Why your brother not work in Seoul instead?"
"He decided to work at KS Daegu since it is close to our house. He doesn't want to stay far away from home. I also apply at KS Daegu but that time they not looking for female employee so I receive the offer at KS HQ"
"Oh I see" Seulgi paused "By the way, I'm sorry to hear about your family especially your late appa"
"It's okay, it doesn't hurt anymore. I got over it. Junmyeon said we shouldn't drown in sadness. Appa will not be happy if we keep ourselves in grief. I always miss him but I'm not really sad anymore. I don't want appa to see me sad from up there" Irene smile as she look at the sky
"I hope I can meet your brother to apology because I made you sad"
"It's okay, he knows already and he does not take it to heart. He just ask me to settle the problem properly so that none of us hold grudge"
Seulgi stood up then he crouched in front of Irene and carefully took her hands on her laps "Hyun, I know I made mistakes. I made you cry and sad without knowing I also made your late appa sad. This time let me make you the happiest woman in this world. Give me a chance to make Junmyeon and your late appa happy seeing their princess' beautiful smile. Will you be my last love?"
He decides to propose to Irene and his decision is final. He wants to make her his wife. He wants to shower her with love. He wants to protect her until his last breath and make her happy to cover the sadness that she felt before. He doesn't know how much damage has happened but he can see great sadness in her eyes when she talks about her family. It broke his heart seeing her sad even she tried to mask it with smile
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Author: What should Irene say? Yes or no?
See you all in next part!