Family ties

He felt drawn to her, and the recollection of their fleeting encounter on the balcony came back to him.

On observing closely Woo hyun noted that Si Yoon was a remarkable woman with unquestionable beauty. Her body was in great harmony and was naturally curvy, without being too skinny. Her face was delicate with plump lips and perfect nose along with her long, dark hair falling down her back in gentle waves complimenting her feminine traits. He was drawn to the depth in her deep brown eyes which had a certain innocence in them.

Her outfit, a straightforward yet sophisticated one-piece dress with a square neck, complemented her slim figure and brought out her inherent attractiveness without overpowering it. The dress highlighted her lovely neck and the soft curves of her shoulders with its simple lines and classic fit. She exuded resilience and a quiet confidence in the way she handled herself.

Drawn by an unknown interest, Woo Hyun went up to her. Si Yoon looked up, astonished at the sight of him standing there. He had been disdainful and aloof the previous time she had met him.

With a neutral tone, Woo Hyun said, "You're the girl from the balcony," but his eyes were looking for a familiar look.

Si Yoon nodded, her expression wary. "Yes. I'm Si Yoon."

While he pondered on her name, Woo Hyun's icy stare stayed fixated on her. "Si Yoon," he said again, as though he was learning it by heart. He was instantly reminded of the man who had deceived him, Kang Soo. He smirked to himself, trying to figure out how they were related.

With a distant tone, he questioned, "What are you doing here?"

"I study here," Si Yoon said in a reserved manner. "I was just taking a break after practice."

As Woo Hyun's gaze shifted to the dancing studio behind her, additional details regarding her appeared. "You're a dancer?"

Si Yoon nodded. "Yes, I am."

A moment of quietness ensued, the memory of their past meeting lingering in the air. Woo Hyun experienced a peculiar pull in her direction despite his usual disinterest. He couldn't quite put his finger on it, but he noticed something about her presence that piqued his interest.

Si Yoon's phone rang at that precise time, cutting the moment short. Her face went white in an instant as she stared at the caller ID. Her father was the one. Woo Hyun observed the abrupt shift in her attitude and the way her face seemed devoid of blood.

Si Yoon excused herself and moved a few steps aside to answer the phone. 

As Woo Hyun saw her, his interest was stirred. He could only hear bits and pieces of what she was saying, but it was obvious to see how upset she was. Her hands trembled a little as she placed the phone away, immediately ending the call.

Her face was covered in an expression of dread when she turned around to face Woo Hyun. "Sorry about that."

With an unreadable look, Woo Hyun gave a small nod. "Is everything alright?"

Si Yoon smiled artificially. "Yes, just... family stuff."

With a little narrowing of his eyes, Woo Hyun's thoughts began to form connections. He understood the meaning of her name and her response. "Family can get complicated," he replied in an insensitive tone.

Si Yoon didn't know how to answer and she simply nodded her head. The air thickened with silent words and mutual distrust. After sating his temporary curiosity, Woo Hyun turned to walk away. Somewhere he knew what conversation she might have had with her father.

He whispered, "Take care, Si Yoon," more in a commanding than a goodbye tone, over his shoulder.

Si Yoon was filled with uncertainty and worry as she watched him leave. She was feeling unsettled by Woo Hyun's presence, and her concern was heightened by her father's call. She was unable to avoid the feeling that a big, unpleasant change was about to happen in her life while she sat again on the wooden seat.

As the program went on, the lights went down and the dance team appeared on stage. Now at her best, Si Yoon appeared with her troupe, prepared to give a performance of her very best. 

Si Yoon moved with grace and accuracy as Woo Hyun, seated with others, observed. Every step she took demonstrated her commitment and desire. Even with his icy demeanor, he was captivated with her performance.

Si Yoon became engrossed in her movements as the performance went on, forgetting about her troubles for the day. Her body and spirit were in perfect alignment as she performed each move with perfection. Even Woo Hyun, who usually remained detached, was moved by her abilities.

The audience erupted in cheers as the show came to an end. Si Yoon and her group bowed while appreciating the audience's gratitude. Even though he refrained from applauding, Woo Hyun observed her with a new regard. Beyond her relationship with Kang Soo, there was something else in her that piqued his interest.

As Si Yoon left the stage, she caught sight of Woo Hyun in the crowd. Their eyes met briefly, and she was surprised to see a flicker of admiration in his usually cold gaze for a small, fleeting moment.

 Their paths had crossed in unexpected ways, and both couldn't help but wonder what lay ahead.