Hello Everyone... I am back with the new chapter. 😁
I hope I didn't take much time to upload. 🤞🏻
The response to this story has been overwhelmingly amazing and I am very grateful to each and every one of you for commenting, voting, and reading. Thank you so much for your wonderful support, and I hope the coming chapters will be of value to your time. 💕💕💕💕💕💕
I am building up the new characters in the story. With the upcoming chapters everything will be cleared up, so don't worry if you get confused about Cho Cheol Gang, Eun Ji, her aunt, and her daughter Yura.
Please enjoy the chapter :)
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In the morning in Seri's bedroom...
Jeong Hyeok slowly woke up to the gentle touch of Seri's hand caressing the back of his head. He felt her warm breath near his ear as she placed a light kiss on his earlobe and softly whispered, "Love, it's time to wake up."
A smile formed on Jeong Hyeok's face as he enjoyed her gestures. He turned towards her, wrapping his arms around her waist and burying his face in her lap. Seri couldn't help but smile at his adorable reaction. However, as Jeong Hyeok playfully moved, the sash of her robe loosened, causing it to slightly open and reveal a glimpse of her bare skin.
Seri's cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and amusement. She giggled and tried to adjust her robe, but Jeong Hyeok playfully opened one eye and looked at her, his gaze lingering on the exposed area.
"Hmm, what's this?" he said with a mischievous grin. He teasingly traced a finger along the exposed skin, causing Seri to playfully swat his hand away.
Jeong Hyeok's playful side took over. With a mischievous glint in his eyes, he playfully buried his face inside the opened robe, tickling her sides and placing light kisses along her exposed skin. Seri couldn't contain her laughter, her body wriggling under his playful assault.
"Jagiya, stop!" she exclaimed between laughter, trying to catch her breath. His gentle touch and playful antics brought joy to both of them.
Jeong Hyeok finally relented, lifting his head from within the folds of the robe.
"Good morning," he said with a satisfied smile playing on his lips. Seri's laughter subsided. She couldn't help but run her hands through his disheveled hair. They locked eyes, and Seri bent down placing a peck on his lips.
"Good morning, love." Jeong Hyeok closed his eyes in bliss.
"Can you help me take a bath?" Seri asked softly, and Jeong Hyeok's ears perked up with interest. He immediately jumped out of bed, completely bare.
"Wait, wait," Seri stopped him before he picked her up.
Teasingly, she glanced down to see a certain member of his waking up further. "I don't want to ruin your mood. But, one, we have to start preparing for today, and two, we can't do whatever you have in that dirty mind of yours because of this." She waved her casted hand at him. "That's why I need your help, so be a saint for now." She came closer to his ear and whispered sensually, "And I promise I will make it up to you after I get rid of this cast." She bit his earlobe, showing him a preview of what she had in mind, just in case he didn't understand, which she doubted. She just wanted to tease him.
"Why are you torturing me?" Jeong Hyeok playfully groaned, unable to resist her allure.
Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of Jeong Hyeok's phone ringing.
"Go answer it. I'll wait for you inside," Seri said, turning around and sighing, for their conversation had been interrupted.
"Hello," Jeong Hyeok answered, seeing that it was his manager's call.
"Tell him to come back in an hour," he said, looking at the closed bathroom door. After ending the call, Jeong Hyeok's attention turned to finding his underwear, which had been carelessly thrown near the bed the previous night.
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The sight that welcomed him in the bathroom was one to behold. Seri, fully naked, stood outside the bathtub, her gaze fixed on the running water. The soft glow of the bathroom lights cast a mesmerizing aura around her, accentuating her beauty.
"I wonder how you were managing for the last couple of days," Jeong Hyeok remarked, his voice interrupting Seri's contemplation.
"Ya!" Seri exclaimed, startled by his sudden presence, hastily covering her body with her hands, albeit with limited success. Jeong Hyeok's mischievous smirk widened, knowing he had caught her off guard.
"If you want a reminder, I have seen it all," he playfully pointed at her with his finger. "And you just asked me to give you a bath."
Blushing furiously, Seri huffed in embarrassment, quickly reaching for her robe. Jeong Hyeok stood behind her and pulled her closer to him as he placed a tender kiss on the side of her head.
"What are we looking at?" he inquired, redirecting their attention back to the bathtub.
"Nothing," Seri murmured, feeling a mixture of bashfulness and vulnerability.
Understanding her restlessness, Jeong Hyeok gently moved her aside and began filling the tub.
"Come on," He helped her out of her robe, his gentle touch melting her heart.
"Let's get you in," he added, holding her hand and guiding her to sit in the warm water. Seri couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude for his presence.
As he carefully washed her hair, she felt him hesitate for a moment.
"Love, how did your meeting go? Yesterday, you seemed a bit distraught," he gently asked, his hands gliding over her shoulders.
Seri felt a slight tensing of her muscles. She could never tell him what happened the night before or where was she and with whom. However, sensing his genuine concern, she decided to share a partial truth.
"The deal didn't go through," she admitted, her voice tinged with disappointment. Technically, it wasn't a lie, but there was much more beneath the surface.
Jeong Hyeok nodded. "Remember, love, you did your best, and that's what's important," he encouraged, his hands working wonders on her tired shoulders. "You have plans from A to Z, and if one doesn't work out, you move on to the next. No one will be mad or disappointed because we all know how hard you work."
"And whoever doesn't want to partner with you, it's their loss. They need you, but you don't need them," he reassured, trying to uplift her spirits. He knew there were troubles she faced at work, and he wanted her to know he was there for her if she chose to confide in him.
Seri couldn't help but wish it was as easy as he made it sound.
"Don't worry about that now. Let's finish quickly so we can prepare for our picnic" She brushed off the topic.
"Ah about that. I have to go to the restaurant in an hour. There is a guy who wants to see me."
Feeling the slump in her shoulders, he directly added "It won't take much in a couple of hours we can be heading out. I have already prepared everything while you were gone."
"Really?" Seri was elated that everything was ready and that they would be able to leave whenever they want. "You are the best, you know that?"
Jeong Hyeok smiled and nodded cheekily. He bent down showing her his cheek asking for a kiss "I deserve a kiss."
Seri smiled and gladly placed a peck on his cheek.
"So, who is this guy that wants to see you?"
"I don't know, I have to go and see. He specifically asked for me." Jeong Hyeok informed her clearly confused.
"Maybe he is from the real estate company. They found a place for you."
Jeong Hyeok's eyes widened remembering that he didn't tell Seri about the new updates.
"Ah, I forgot to tell you. I found a place to move to. We are reviewing the papers with a lawyer and soon I am going to sign the contract."
A surprised Seri turned around to look at him. She hastily got up and hugged him splashing him with water in the process.
"That's great. You have to show me the place, and I will send my lawyer on Monday to review the contract too. This time I will make sure that no one will take your place." Seri said in a no-nonsense tone. She hugged him tightly as if assuring him and herself that they were alright.
"I was going to tell you about it on the day you did the accident. I am sorry I didn't get the chance to do that."
"It's ok, I understand" Seri whispered enjoying the feeling of his body against hers.
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"You are so annoying you know," Joo Meok said in a grumpy voice as he caught Seri and Jeong Hyeok at the door kissing.
From the inside, he was completely and utterly happy for both of them. They made up and solved the issues between them, but he couldn't help but have this lingering thought in his mind, why couldn't this also be for him and Min So?
Seri jumped out of Jeong Hyeok's arms startled. "Ya! What are you doing here? Don't you have a house to be in?" Seri shouted at her friend.
"I am leaving soon, don't shout!" Joo Meok retorted back.
"Let's leave together Jeong Hyeok-ah" Joo Meok suggested.
Seri's eyes widened and she shouted "No! That's enough of you two hanging out together. It is too much to handle. You" she pointed at a shocked Joo Meok "stay away from him, and stop taking him for drinks" Then she turned back to Jeong Hyeok "And you, stop doing whatever he says."
"What did we do?" An exasperated Joo Meok asked.
"Who came and dragged you out of the bar?" When Joo Meok looked down embarrassed, Seri continued, "You and I will have a long chat." She promised Joo Meok in a tone that scared both men.
"Your boyfriend isn't much of an angel, by the way," Joo Meok said trying to get the blame off him.
Jeong Hyeok's eyes widened. Was Joo Meok Hyung throwing him under the bus? They just made up for god's sake. He thought.
But two can play the game. Jeong Hyeok smirked and turned toward his girlfriend.
"You know he is bluffing. I would never do anything behind your back." Jeong Hyeok countered trying to get Seri's attention away from Joo Meok who was so ready to do anything to escape Seri's anger.
To Jeong Hyeok's luck, his phone rang, "Seri-ah I have to go now. Hyung is all yours. I will call you when I am done." Jeong Hyeok waved his ringing phone showing Seri that he really needed to leave.
Seri nodded and tiptoed on her feet to give him one last peck which he reciprocated.
"Way to throw me under the bus!" Joo Meok shouted at Jeong Hyeok's retreating figure.
He glanced at Seri and saw his friend throwing daggers at him.
"Ok, I think I am going to go prepare myself to leave. Min So is waiting for me" he mumbled attempting to run away slowly, but Seri moving towards him, made him dash towards his bedroom screaming for his life.
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As Jeong Hyeok arrived at his restaurant, he saw Mu Hyeok waiting for him, as if his elder brother had been eagerly awaiting his arrival.
"Jeong Hyeok," Mu Hyeok called out.
"Hyung?" Jeong Hyeok responded, taken aback by Mu Hyeok's unexpected presence. It had been a while since Mu Hyeok had stopped to have a conversation with him like this.
"How have you been?" Mu Hyeok inquired. His gaze fixed on his younger brother.
"I'm good. And you?" Jeong Hyeok asked, slightly puzzled by the change in Mu Hyeok's demeanor. Something seemed off, but he couldn't quite put his finger on it.
"Good, good," Mu Hyeok replied hastily. "How are things going?"
Assuming Mu Hyeok was referring to the restaurant, Jeong Hyeok proceeded to give him a brief update on the recent developments. "I'm actually working on moving to another location. It's looking positive."
Mu Hyeok's face displayed a hint of disappointment, and Jeong Hyeok could sense a trace of anger beneath the surface. "So, you couldn't find a way to keep this place?" Mu Hyeok's tone was tinged with frustration.
Jeong Hyeok, maintaining a positive outlook, responded, "No, but that's okay. It's a step in the right direction."
Mu Hyeok's annoyance became more evident as he asked, "And what did Yoon Seri have to say about it?" Seri promised him that she will give Jeong Hyeok his place back. (Chapter 17)
Jeong Hyeok noticed the irritated tone in Mu Hyeok's voice when mentioning Seri, causing a pang of defensiveness to rise within him. "Of course, she supported me," he replied firmly.
Mu Hyeok involuntarily scoffed, and Jeong Hyeok bristled, ready to retort, but their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of a well-dressed man, who entered the restaurant, diverting their attention.
"Mr. Ri?" the man called
"Yes. That's me." Jeong Hyeok went to the man to greet him.
"I apologize for making you wait, but I had some family business to attend to." Jeong Hyeok apologized as the two men sat at one of the tables.
The guy directly stopped Jeong Hyeok from apologizing further, "Please don't apologize, it's actually my fault for coming unannounced."
Mu Hyeok who didn't want to leave yet, was listening to the conversation and his anger just heightened when he realized that the family business Jeong Hyeok was talking about was Seri.
In an irritated tone, Mu Hyeok cleared his throat grabbing the men's attention.
"I will be in the pharmacy Jeong Hyeok when you are done come, I have something to tell you" Mu Hyeok ordered his brother and left without even waiting for Jeong Hyeok's response.
"I know that you are busy, so I won't take much of your time. I am Min In-ho from yourPlace real estate agency." Min In-Ho passes his business card to Jeong Hyeok.
"We made a deal with the CEO of C&H group, and we bought the place from him. Here is the lease" He passed Jeong Hyeok the documents. "We know that Choi Jun Seo-ssi was planning on demolishing the place, but that's not our plan. We would like you to stay here and keep your restaurant running."
Jeong Hyeok was looking at him incredulously and then at the business card in his hand. He couldn't really point a finger at what was going on.
Why was his restaurant suddenly the fascination of many businessmen? How will they benefit from it? Jeong Hyeok asked himself.
When Jeong Hyeok didn't reply, the man added, "We are sorry if this will cause you any inconvenience. From what I understood you were going to leave the place in the upcoming weeks."
"Why the sudden interest? Why is your agency suddenly interested in my place? How will it benefit them? And why would a real estate agency buy a place they don't want to sell?"
"Our company requires a stable income."
"As far as I know, C&H group didn't want to sell." Jeong Hyeok was not buying what the man was telling him. Jun Seo would never let go of this place just like that.
"C&H group's financial stability is not promising. That's why they have put the property on sale and our CEO saw that as an opportunity to buy it and stabilize our company." In-ho replied calmly.
When In-Ho saw that Jeong Hyeok was not buying it, he said "You can visit our office. Our CEO's name is Cho Cheol Gang. Here is his card. He is waiting for your visit." In-ho handed Jeong Hyeok another business card. "You can find the address on the back of the card."
"And here is the new contract for you to sign. You can take your time to read it, and you can add your own conditions."
Jeong Hyeok silently took the card and the contract from the man.
In-ho stood up to leave. He extended his hand to greet Jeong Hyeok.
As Jeong Hyeok shook his hand, In-ho said, "We are expecting your visit."
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After In-ho left, Jeong Hyeok just sat there trying to digest the new information he received.
Some stranger bought his restaurant again.
Jun Seo sold it like that.
He can keep his place.
They are giving him the option to stay AND put his own terms and conditions.
How did Jun Seo give up this whole thing?
Is the contract legit?
Who are those people and why are they doing all of that?
He had so many questions and things running in his mind, and he just couldn't wrap his mind around them.
He didn't want to raise anyone's hopes prematurely, so he made the decision to keep the recent development to himself for the time being. His mind was set on carefully reviewing the contract in solitude and assessing whether it was worth informing Seri, his manager, and the lawyer about it.
However right now, it wasn't the time for all of that, he wanted to get back home to Seri. Both of them had been looking forward to the relaxing weekend they had planned together. Initially, Jeong Hyeok had suggested going to the cabin in Gwangju, but Seri had disagreed, citing the long drive and her inability to take over the wheel in case he grew tired. The slight blush that had colored Seri's cheeks at that moment gave him a clue as to why she was avoiding revisiting that place.
A shy smile played on Jeong Hyeok's lips as he reminisced about the unforgettable night they had spent in the cabin. It had been one of the most remarkable moments in his life, marking the beginning of something truly beautiful—the start of his relationship with Seri. (Chapter 12)
Rushing out making his way back home where Seri eagerly awaited him, Jeong Hyeok was stopped by his brother.
"Jeong Hyeok-ah," Mu Hyeok called from the entrance of his pharmacy.
Jeong Hyeok sighed, realizing that he had forgotten about meeting his brother after his earlier engagement. Reluctantly, he followed Mu Hyeok inside, where he found Pyo Chi Su waiting as well.
"Jeong Hyeok-ah!" Pyo Chi Su greeted him warmly. "I thought you weren't working today."
"Something came up, but I need to leave now," Jeong Hyeok replied.
"How is it going, Chi Su?" Jeong Hyeok asked.
"I miss our hangouts man. Are you free tonight? It's been a while since we went out for a drink, and every time I try to visit you, you're never home," Pyo Chi Su teased, a mischievous smirk playing on his lips.
"Who's the lucky lady?" he prodded, clearly amused by Jeong Hyeok's embarrassment.
"Chi Su, we can discuss it tonight," Jeong Hyeok blushed, his neck and face turning crimson.
"Oh, so there is someone?!" Pyo Chi Su exclaimed, genuinely surprised by Jeong Hyeok's partial confession. "We'll have that drink tonight then. I'm free."
Trying to change the subject, Jeong Hyeok suggested, "Yeah we can catch up properly."
"Did you know?" Pyo Chi Su turned to Mu Hyeok, asking if he was aware of Jeong Hyeok's new love interest.
"Hyung, what did you want to talk to me about?" Jeong Hyeok interjected, attempting to divert the conversation. He was growing increasingly uncomfortable discussing Seri in front of Mu Hyeok.
"Take a seat, I need to have a conversation with you," Mu Hyeok said curtly.
"Hyung, I have to leave soon..." Jeong Hyeok tried to explain that he couldn't stay long, but Mu Hyeok interrupted him.
"15 minutes won't hurt your girlfriend," Mu Hyeok insisted.
"Hyung," Jeong Hyeok warned, his patience wearing thin. "Let's not go there."
"Fine. Eun Ji is back," Mu Hyeok revealed, earning a gasp from Pyo Chi Su. To his surprise, however, Jeong Hyeok remained unfazed.
"And?" Jeong Hyeok asked nonchalantly.
"And? Don't you want to know when and why she returned?" Mu Hyeok questioned as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.
"Why would I?" Jeong Hyeok responded casually.
"Because she meant something to you," Mu Hyeok said, assuming it was an undeniable reason.
"Hyung, Eun Ji-ssi is in the past. I have never looked back, and I never will. She chose her own path, and I chose mine. I don't care if you've seen her or if she's back, as you claim," Jeong Hyeok stated firmly.
"But I saw her with a child" Mu Hyeok persisted, desperate for a reaction from Jeong Hyeok. However, all he received were gasps from Pyo Chi Su and indifference from Jeong Hyeok.
"Good for her, if she's married and has a child. Can I leave now?" Jeong Hyeok's frustration was evident as he turned to walk away. He had no interest in indulging Mu Hyeok's wild notions. All he wished for was for his brother to return to his former self and stop behaving so inconsiderately.
Without looking back, Jeong Hyeok left, his only desire being to distance himself from the absurd conversation.
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After Jeong Hyeok left, Pyo Chi Su couldn't help but ponder Mu Hyeok's words.
"Do you think the child is his?" he had asked, seeking confirmation. Mu Hyeok's sigh and assurance only deepened Pyo Chi Su's confusion.
"Did Eun Ji-ssi tell you so?" he probed further, trying to piece the puzzle together. Pyo Chi Su struggled to understand his friend's perspective.
"The girl is around 4 to 5 years old. And Jeong Hyeok and Eun Ji-ssi broke up four years ago," Mu Hyeok added, attempting to convince Pyo Chi Su.
Pyo Chi Su stared at Mu Hyeok for a few seconds, then said, "Jeong Hyeok knows best. If he is saying that this is impossible, then we should believe him," Pyo Chi Su asserted, trusting in Jeong Hyeok's own assessment of the situation.
Mu Hyeok, however, continued to raise doubts and suspicions. "Why would it be impossible? Do you think Jeong Hyeok was celibate back then? You and I both know that they were serious about each other," Mu Hyeok argued, attempting to raise doubts in Pyo Chi Su's mind.
"Hyung, we don't know how their relationship was, so it's better if we don't make assumptions. You know how things ended between them." Pyo Chi Su reasoned, standing by his friend's side.
With those words, he left Mu Hyeok to his thoughts.
As Pyo Chi Su contemplated the situation at hand, he wondered about the woman whom Jeong Hyeok had told him about multiple times.
From what he remembers, Jeong Hyeok told him, the woman is from a different world, incredibly wealthy. Jeong Hyeok had often expressed his frustration at the situation and at times lost hope. Pyo Chi Su had tried to warn him about the dangers of getting involved with the wealthy elite.
'An ultimate heartbreak', he once told him.
He knew rich people were often ruthless and materialistic, lacking the genuine love and compassion that Jeong Hyeok cherished. His friend was too pure, too selfless for that world.
When Jeong Hyeok stopped mentioning the lady, Pyo Chi Su assumed that his friend had given up on pursuing her. Their busy schedules had prevented them from having meaningful one-on-one conversations lately, but Pyo Chi Su didn't hold it against Jeong Hyeok. They still spent time together at work and during their hangouts with the Ri siblings, Seri, and her friends. He trusted that Jeong Hyeok had his reasons.
Pyo Chi Su eagerly anticipated the opportunity to finally sit down and talk with Jeong Hyeok.
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Joo Meok took a deep breath as he entered the door code, stepping into the new apartment he now supposedly shared with Min So. The living room appeared empty. He called out for his girlfriend, hoping she hadn't gone out. He sighed in relief when he heard her calling him to the bedroom.
Following their last fight, Joo Meok had been staying away from home to prevent them from fighting. Even though he knew that this doesn't solve anything, and on the contrary, it would add to the distance forming between them, he couldn't fight with her anymore.
However, he had returned now, he wanted to make things right between them. In his heart, he carried the hope of reconciliation to rebuild their relationship. They would talk it out and solve the issue between them like they always did.
As Min So came into Joo Meok's vision, a smile tugged at the corners of his lips. He missed her a lot.
Min So gave him an expressionless look and said in a sarcastic tone, "To what do I owe this pleasure? You're finally back."
He sighed, and without saying a word, he came closer to her and held her hand pulling her silently with him to sit on the edge of the bed.
Joo Meok glanced at Min So, she was looking down at her hands barely holding in her tears.
He didn't know if he should consider it as a gesture of hope, a sign that she, too, was sad about whatever was happening between them and wanted to mend their relationship.
"What happened to us?" Min So was the first one to break the silence in the room. As she asked the question, her voice was trembling, and finally, a lone tear rolled down her cheek followed by multiple ones.
Seeing this Joo Meok's heart broke. His own tears were pooling in his eyes. He didn't want any of that to happen between them.
"I don't know." He whispered.
"Why?" Frustrated, Min So pulled him from his shirt and shouted, "You always have an explanation for everything, why don't you know? You always make me feel better, why can't you do it now?"
Feeling guilty, Joo Meok looked down silently. Min So broke down, her forehead resting on his chest. Without waiting for another second, he held her hands and pulled her towards him hugging her tightly. At that moment, they both broke down, crying, in each other's arms.
"I am sorry" Both whispered to each other.
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Seri's Apartment...
As Jeong Hyeok stepped into the apartment, he heard Seri's voice drifting through the rooms. He approached her with a warm smile, signaling his return. Seri's face lit up with delight, and she gestured for him to give her a few moments to wrap up her phone call.
Jeong Hyeok nodded and made his way to the bathroom. He freshened up quickly and changed his clothes to the ones that Seri had pulled out for him.
After a short while, Jeong Hyeok descended the stairs to find Seri ending her call. She set her phone aside, her attention fully focused on him.
"Ready?" Seri asked and Jeong Hyeok nodded in response.
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In the car, Jeong Hyeok skillfully navigated the roads, with one hand firmly holding Seri's as usual. However, instead of Seri being her chattering self, she was silently gazing out of the window lost in her thoughts.
He gently inquired, "Love, what's troubling you?"
Seri's attention snapped back to the present as Jeong Hyeok's question reached her ears.
She sighed softly before responding, her voice tinged with frustration. "The call was from the lawyer."
Keeping his eyes focused on the road, he asked, "What did they say? Did they make any progress in finding out who caused your accident?" Concern etched onto his face.
Seri shook her head, a hint of disappointment evident in her voice. "No, it wasn't about that. It was regarding the case I've been trying to build against Jun Seo."
As his curiosity piqued, Jeong Hyeok leaned in closer, "And what did they say?"
A touch of resignation colored Seri's tone as she relayed the lawyer's update. "Initially, the lawyer and the police officer assured me that I had enough evidence to hold Jun Seo and Se Hyung accountable, but now my lawyer informed me that the investigating police officer is uncooperative. Apparently, Jun Seo is considered a high-profile case, and there is a specific department handling his case. We're unable to pursue or take any further action."
Jeong Hyeok's brows furrowed, his thoughts racing. "Love, if the department is handling it, then they will definitely put them behind bars. And if it is really a high-profile case, then they definitely have a team working on it. The police officer might really be helpless here."
Seri nodded. "I know, but I can't help but feel frustrated. What if they can't prove anything against them? What if they let them go?"
"We are talking about investigators here Jagiya. They usually do everything they can to put the bad guys behind bars." Jeong Hyeok assured her. "And of course, whatever you provided as evidence, they will consider it as a plus for them. The only difference here is that you give without getting into the details of the case."
"I am being ridiculous for thinking like that, right?"
"Not at all, baby. It is normal for anyone in your situation to get frustrated over what happened. You want Jun Seo and Se Hyung behind bars. And they will be. But first, we have to let the police do their job."
She leaned closer, resting her head against his shoulder with their fingers still intertwined with each other.
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In Min So's and Joo Meok's apartment...
After their breakdown. The couple got a grip on themselves and were now sitting silently in each other's arms, on the bed.
"What do we do now?" Joo Meok asked as he kissed the top of her head again and again.
"Let's fix it." Min So whispered lost in her own thoughts.
"You're way too precious to me, not to try again and again."
"We shouldn't have the 'again and again' thing."
"You are right." Joo Meok agreed.
The couple sat in silence. However, it wasn't the usual comfortable silence they were used to. Both of them were not being honest with each other. After the whole moving in together fiasco, they found themselves again in the same situation (Chapter 9). Both were dreading the truth.
Min So was afraid to tell him that this whole moving in together was taking a toll on her. She didn't know how to tell him that she was still not ready for this step and that agreeing to it was a huge mistake.
Joo Meok was afraid to ask if she wants space, away from him, away from them. He realized that everything started happening after they moved in together. And he wasn't dumb to not notice how Min So was feeling towards the whole idea. He was regretting asking her to take this step.
"Let's go for a getaway this weekend." Joo Meok suddenly said surprising Min So. "We will spend some time together. I will be just us." Joo Meok tightened his hold on Min So.
Min So nodded. She didn't care about the place. She just wanted to be assured that he was still with her.
Both closed their eyes in hopes that this getaway would just solve their problems.
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Jeong Hyeok and Seri in the park...
As they arrived at the park, Jeong Hyeok and Seri strolled hand in hand, carrying the picnic gear in search of the perfect spot. After a really cold winter, the weather was getting better, and luckily for them today was perfect for a cozy picnic. The park was teeming with families and friends enjoying their day, making finding an empty space a bit challenging.
They weaved through the vibrant greenery, their laughter and lighthearted banter filling the air.
"What's the food that you prepared?" Seri asked out of nowhere.
Jeong Hyeok gave Yejin an incredulous look and then said, "You didn't check the boxes?"
"No, I didn't" Seri replied quickly, and, then and there Jeong Hyeok knew she was up to something.
"Seri-ah"
Seri knew he caught her, "I might have had the gimbap" she was trying to sound guilty.
Jeong Hyeok laughed loudly. He wasn't surprised. His girlfriend had a very healthy appetite and he adored seeing her enjoying the plates he prepared for her whenever there were together.
"I will roll some more when we find a place. Cause I know this" He patted her stomach and mischievously said, "Will need attention. Very soon."
"Ya!" she shoved her hands away, looking around her, "People will think I am pregnant."
"So what? Let them be."
"I am a public figure. Did you forget that? Seri said in a playful tone.
"Come on Ms. Famous then, let's find you a good spot away from the public eye." He joked back.
Jeong Hyeok's eyes scanned their surrounding, his gaze settling on a secluded area under the shade of a large oak tree. "How about over there?" he suggested, nodding towards the inviting spot.
Seri's eyes followed his gaze, and a smile tugged at the corners of her lips.
"Perfect," she agreed, her excitement evident.
They made their way towards the peaceful nook, away from the bustling crowd, where they could unwind and enjoy each other's company in tranquility.
With gentle care, Jeong Hyeok spread out the picnic blanket on the soft grass while Seri arranged the snacks and drinks, creating a delightful spread.
"Love, leave it. You will hurt yourself." Jeong Hyeok said as he saw her struggling to get things out of the bag with her one well hand.
"I am not that weak my other hand is fine" Seri argued as she continued her task.
As they settled down, Jeong Hyeok wrapped his arm around Seri's shoulder, pulling her closer.
The rustling leaves and the distant chirping of birds provided a soothing soundtrack to their lovely moment. They soaked in the serenity of the park, relishing the peace that enveloped them.
"I can't wait for next week to come by, so I can get rid of this" She waved her casted hand.
"Is it your first time breaking your hand?" Seri nodded at his question.
"Did you break yours before?" She asked.
"Let's say I wasn't a really quiet boy as a kid."
"Definitely spoiled by your mom. That I know." Seri teased him.
"I still am very spoiled by her. Let me tell you a secret." Jeong Hyeok stopped for a dramatic effect. "I am her favorite son, but she doesn't want to admit it." Jeong Hyeok revealed making Seri laugh at the way he said it.
"Your brothers must be jealous." She said sarcastically.
"Eun Hyeok is spoiled by everyone. Gwang Hyeok doesn't care. And Mu Hyeok being the elder has a special place."
"So, you are the petty one keeping score," Seri stated as she teased him. Jeong Hyeok widened his eyes dramatically as if showing her that he was offended.
"Ya! I am not that petty. I just know that I am Mom's favorite." He tried to defend himself.
"Then what do you call that if not keeping score" Seri challenged.
"Instinct?" He quickly said.
The look on Seri's face told him that she wasn't convinced, so he opted on changing the subject.
"So how I broke my hand" He started "When I used to play basketball, I broke my hand once, and sprained my ankle twice. When I was 12, Hyung and Chi Su challenged me to take Chi Su's father's motorcycle and ride it down the road on my own. So, Chi Su stole the keys, and we got the motorcycle. Of course, the moment I ignited the engine I lost control over the bike, and I just went straight into the wall."
He glanced at Seri and smiled softly. She was adorably looking up at him, her eyes wide, engrossed in the story.
"Then what happened?"
"From the force of the crash, I was thrown into the wall, and I don't know how, but the motorbike just landed on me, after also being crushed." Seri gasped at what he said.
"Got out of it with a broken hand, a broken hip, dislocated shoulder and ankle, and deep cuts everywhere in my body from head to toe. Remember the scar you saw on my hip last time?" Jeong Hyeok asked as Seri nodded.
"Yeah, that's the accident I was talking about. It took me a couple of days to wake up and a lot to heal."
"How can you be so careless?" Seri scolded making Jeong Hyeok chuckle.
"I was 12. We were kids and we used to think that we are the strongest men on earth. After that, Chi Su and Hyung got scolded so much, and I was able to escape the scolding." Jeong Hyeok laughed at the memory.
"In the Marines also, I broke my wrist." He continued.
"Ya! What didn't break in you?"
"Everything else" Jeong Hyeok replied as a matter of fact.
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Somewhere else near Gangnam...
The man, Min In-ho, who visited Jeong Hyeok earlier, entered a small two-office company. Cho Cheol Gang the same man who got the property from Jun Seo a couple of days ago, was there, sitting behind his desk busy on his laptop.
In-Ho stood in front of Cheol Gang and saluted him. "Sir"
"Ya! How many times have I told you not to do that anymore?" Cheol Gang said quickly, ushering the man to put his hand down.
In-Ho realizing his mistake, directly lowered his hand, "Sorry sir. A habit."
"I expect that you are coming here after your meeting with Ri Jeong Hyeok-ssi, right?"
"Yes sir. He wants to meet you."
Cheol Gang smiled nodding his head. "Expected."
"He said, he will read the contract first. I am not sure when though, but what I am sure of is that he didn't trust me one bit."
Cho Cheol Gang laughed at his subordinate's comment.
"Nothing we didn't expect. Whenever he visits, we will surely be here."
"What happened about the other deals that Choi Jun Seo is involved in?"
"We were able to find information on two of the deals. We got the full details. Whom he is working with? and what he is trading? when he traded? and for how much?"
"So can we hold these against him?"
In-Ho shook his head sideways "They won't hold in court."
Feeling frustrated Cho Cheol Gang hit his desk hard.
"It has been more than 6 months now, and we still haven't gotten ANYTHING ON HIM." Cho Cheol Gang shouted in frustration.
When In-Ho looked down in shame, for he couldn't be of help, Cho Cheol Gang sighed. "You know we have put a couple of them behind bars, but this guy... this guy... he knows how to hide his traces."
"We will try harder sir," In-Ho said.
"I am sorry. You are not to be blamed. You just joined right?"
In-Ho nodded. "Yes sir. Three months ago."
"You can go now. Where do we have to be tonight?"
"Today we have the Diamonds deal."
"We can put them behind bars?"
"Yes sir," In-Ho said confidently.
"Then we are ready."
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Back in the Park...
Lost in their own little world, Seri was lying her head on Jeong Hyeok's lap. Both were enjoying themselves talking about nothing and everything. Sometimes they would sit in complete comfortable silence just enjoying each other's company, and other times their shared laughter, and heartfelt conversations, would fill the air around them, savoring the simple joys of being together.
"Now that this little monster is fed." He said as he caressed her stomach teasingly "What would you like to do after?"
"Ya!" She removed his hand from her stomach. "Don't do that" she said looking around her again to see if anyone noticed them.
"I want to spoil my cute little baby," He said cooing her stomach. Then he shocked her by planting a kiss on the part he was caressing.
Seri jumped out of her place glaring at him. And in one instance, Jeong Hyeok was on his feet running for his life, and Seri after him trying to catch him.
After making her follow him around half of the park, he discovered that she had really good stamina. It didn't look like she was going to get tired easily, so he turned around and suddenly scooped her in his arms lifting her feet off the ground, earning a squeal from her.
He took them back to their mat and sat them down.
"Ok, Ok I am sorry." Jeong Hyeok directly apologized before she snapped out at him.
"Stop doing that here," Seri warned him.
She knew, if anyone figured out that she was none other than Yoon Seri the Chaebol, CEO of Seri's choice, and the future chairwoman of Queen's group, she and Jeong Hyeok would be in big trouble. What Jeong Hyeok was doing, couldn't be done in public. Of course, she knew Jeong Hyeok was joking around, and often he did that, but only in the confines of their apartments. Now no outsider would understand that.
Jeong Hyeok just laughed it off and pulled her on his lap, hugging her. What are the chances that someone might actually realize that Seri was there?
He looked around and saw everyone busy in their own world. Kids were playing and running here and there, some with their parents and others with each other. Couples and families were scattered all over the park. And just like them, everyone wanted to enjoy the good weather and their time.
Unfortunately for the couple and unbeknownst to them, there was indeed one elderly lady in the park who actually noticed them... specifically Jeong Hyeok.
She was none other than Eun Ji's aunt. However, the woman was not alone, Eun Ji's daughter, Yura, was with her. The girl was running around with the other kids and her grandma was sitting on one of the chairs looking after her.
Eun Ji's aunt saw Jeong Hyeok and Seri the moment they entered the park. She saw their interaction together and directly figured out that they were definitely lovers. She alternated between looking after her granddaughter and gazing at the couple.
And let's put it that way... she saw everything.
She saw them laughing around, having lunch, cuddling, running around, her laying her head on his lap, and him pulling her on his lap, and most importantly... She saw Jeong Hyeok caressing Seri's stomach and cooing at it.
"Halmeoni! Halmeoni!" Yura called her grandmother snapping her out of her reverie.
"Yes sweetie"
"They are making fun of me because I don't know how to throw the ball," The girl said in a hurt tone, her eyes starting to water.
The elderly lady didn't know what to do. She looked at her granddaughter helplessly. If she had the strength, she would have taught Yura whatever she wanted to learn.
Her eyes then flared in anger, snapping back at Jeong Hyeok and his lover. She saw him laughing and enjoying his time with his girlfriend, while this little girl in front of her was bawling her eyes out... all because of him!!
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Going back to their old position, with Seri laying her head on Jeong Hyeok's lap, both closed their eyes enjoying the warm sunlight, until two figures blocked their view.
Jeong Hyeok opened one eye to find Seung Joon and Seo Dan in front of them.
"Hyung?! Nuna?!" Jeong Hyeok exclaimed wide awake now. He looked down at Seri and found her still asleep.
"What are you doing here?" Jeong Hyeok asked.
Seo Dan and Seung Joon glanced at each other and then sat down on the mat facing Jeong Hyeok and the still 'sleeping' Seri.
"Seri texted me in the morning that you will be coming here," Seung Joon answered Jeong Hyeok's unasked question.
"Dani, see they are busy" Seung Joon gestured at the couple in front of him. He was trying to convince Seo Dan to leave them alone and postpone the shopping idea for some other time.
"Let's go do something else instead." He continued.
"Busy my foot. They were sleeping." Seo Dan replied, a bit agitated.
"Cause it is their day off. Normal people relax." Seung Joon bit his lips, his eyes widening, after he realized what he said.
Seo Dan gasped. "You mean I am abnormal."
Seung Joon glanced at Jeong Hyeok for help, and the latter quickly shook his head sideways, gesturing for him to take it back.
"No, No of course I didn't mean that." Seung Joon quickly replied. "I was just saying..." he sighed and glanced back at a startled Jeong Hyeok "Just wake her up. Can you?" Seung Joon asked defeated.
Jeong Hyeok was looking back and forth between them not really sure of what was going on. Suddenly, two of their friends appeared in front of them, started bickering for some unknown reason, and now they were asking him to wake Seri up.
Gladly, he didn't need to...
"You know it is really hard for someone to even close an eye when you are around" Seri suddenly said while still keeping her eyes shut. She turned around, buried her head in Jeong Hyeok's abdomen, and wrapped her arms around his waist.
"Kick them out love," Seri said in a barely audible voice barely.
"Ya get up we need you," Seo Dan said trying to turn her around, but Seri wrapped her hands tightly around Jeong Hyeok's waist not moving an inch, and on the contrary, burying her face deeper into Jeong Hyeok.
"I am unavailable right now. You can reach me in another three hours."
"Seriously this girl," Seo Dan said in frustration. "You have been here for like what? 3 hours? Isn't that enough?"
"Four" Seri and Jeong Hyeok corrected.
"Seri-ah, we could use some help." Seung Joon tried.
The couple glanced at Jeong Hyeok for help.
He nodded and bent down to whisper something in Seri's ear.
"One, I think Hyung and Nuna really need our help. Two, stop rubbing yourself down there before it gets embarrassing for both of us."
Seri's eyes widened at Jeong Hyeok's revelation. She didn't wait for him to finish his sentence and directly sprang up turning to her friends.
"What? You can't live without us now?" Seri mocked.
"We have to go home shopping or else my mom and aunts will take me with them. Please I don't want to go with them. I have to go before that." Seo Dan almost begged.
Going for house preparation with her aunts would be hell for Seo Dan. They would buy everything they like without asking Seo Dan about her opinion.
And in all honesty, who else was better than Seri in these things?
Seri took pity on her two friends. She looked back at Jeong Hyeok and nodded at him.
"Ok fine let's go." She told them as she and Jeong Hyeok got up.
Elated, Seung Joon and Seo Dan helped them tidy their things up to leave as soon as possible.
Unknown to them, the same elderly lady, Yura's grandmother, took the little girl with her and followed them.
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Later in the evening in the Ri household...
Jeong Hyeok's parents, Ri Chung Ryeol and Kim Yun Hui were seated in the living room, engrossed in watching the evening news until the sound of the house landline interrupted the calmness in the room.
Kim Yun Hui, who happened to be closer to the phone, instinctively reached out and answered the call.
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As she listened intently to the voice on the other end, a mixture of shock and disbelief washed over her face. Her grip on the phone weakened, and it slipped from her hand, crashing onto the floor. At that moment, Kim Yun Hui collapsed, her body giving way to unconsciousness.
Ri Chung Ryeol, startled by his wife's sudden reaction, immediately sprang into action. He rushed to her side, as fast as his age would allow him, his concern evident on his face and in his voice. He tried desperately to awaken her. "Yeobo! Yeobo! What happened?" he pleaded, gently tapping her cheeks in an attempt to rouse her.
Just as panic began to set in because of Yun Hui's unresponsiveness, Ri Chung Ryeol called out for Gwang Hyeok, who was in his room.
Simultaneously, Eun Hyeok arrived home and was greeted by the distressing scene of his father trying to wake their unconscious mother up.
Without wasting a moment, Eun Hyeok hurriedly knelt down beside her, his voice filled with worry as he questioned his father about what had transpired.
"Abeoji, what's wrong with Eomma? What happened?" Eun Hyeok asked his concern reflecting in his furrowed brows and trembling voice. Gwang Hyeok, now present next to them, joined his brother's plea for answers, his eyes wide with a mixture of fear and confusion.
Ri Chung Ryeol quickly explained, his eyes filled with worry. "We received a phone call, she answered, and while she was on the call she suddenly collapsed."
After a few tense moments, Kim Yun Hui regained consciousness, her eyes fluttering open as she gradually became aware of her surroundings. She looked around her and saw her husband and two sons gathered near her.
"Eomma are you ok?" A worried Eun Hyeok started.
"What happened? Who was on the phone?" Chung Ryeol asked.
With her weak voice, she spoke to them, "Call Jeong Hyeok." she requested.
Gwang Hyeok and Eun Hyeok exchanged a glance... Something was not right.
"Get water, I will call him." Gwang Hyeok told Eun Hyeok as both helped their mom up.
As Kim Yun Hui sat down, she held onto her husband's hand. She felt weak and shaken. Her eyes were filled with a mixture of anger, fear, and nervousness as she silently prayed for Jeong Hyeok to be in front of her as soon as possible.
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End of the chapter. 😁
I hope you enjoyed it. 💕💕💕
The next chapter coming soon.