Chapter Fifty-four: Bridging the Divide.

The tension in the room was palpable as Min Jun and Soo Jeon sat with both sets of parents at the elegant hotel where they planned to discuss the wedding details. Mrs. Kang's eyes lit up as she laid out brochures of grand venues, elaborately decorated halls, and multi-tiered cakes. In contrast, Soo Jeon's parents exchanged a nervous glance, feeling overwhelmed by the extravagance.

 "We think a smaller, more intimate setting would be beautiful," Soo Jeon's mother suggested gently, her voice steady but cautious. 

 Mrs. Kang's smile was tight. "But this is a once-in-a-lifetime event. It should reflect the importance of the occasion—and the family name."

 Min Jun, sensing the growing divide, tried to ease the conversation. "How about we find a way to combine both ideas? A traditional ceremony that's still elegant but not over the top?". 

 Despite his efforts, the discussions quickly spiraled into debates over budgets, guest lists, and the venue. Soo Jeon's father, trying to keep his calm, noted, "We want the day to be about Min Jun and Soo Jeon, not just a display.". 

  Min Jun squeezed Soo Jeon's hand under the table, silently reassuring her as the conversation heated. He knew this was just the beginning of many compromises they'd have to navigate, but he was determined to make it work.

 ****************

 Meanwhile, Ji-Eun, lurking in the background, saw the growing tensions as a final opportunity. She crafted a malicious plan, leaking rumors that painted Soo Jeon as a gold digger using Min Jun for his wealth. The gossip spread quickly, appearing in tabloids and across social media, casting a shadow over their wedding plans. 

 Soo Jeon felt her heart sink as she read the headlines, the sting of the lies hitting harder than she expected. For a moment, doubt flickered in her eyes, but Min Jun pulled her into a hug. "We'll handle this together. We always do.". 

With Min Jun's encouragement, Soo Jeon decided to address the rumors head-on. She posted a heartfelt message on her social media, sharing glimpses of their journey together—the late-night talks, the quiet moments of understanding, the small acts of kindness that defined their love. "This is our story," she wrote, "not one defined by money or status, but by two people who found something real in each other."

 The response was overwhelming. Messages of support flooded in, drowning out the negativity that Ji-Eun had stirred up. Min Jun followed with his own post, standing by Soo Jeon and denouncing the false rumors. "Our love is real, and nothing will ever change that," he declared. 

Watching the public rally behind Soo Jeon, Min Jun's parents started to soften. They saw the genuine connection their son had with Soo Jeon, and for the first time, they began to truly understand why she was the one for him.

 At their next meeting, the tone was different. Mrs. Kang, though still reserved, expressed a willingness to compromise. "Let's make this wedding special in a way that honors both families," she said, her voice less rigid than before. 

 Min Jun and Soo Jeon exchanged a relieved glance, grateful for the shift. They knew the road ahead wouldn't always be smooth, but they were ready to face it together. That evening, as they stood on the balcony of their apartment, overlooking the city lights, they made a promise. 

"No more secrets, no more letting others dictate our happiness," Min Jun said, his voice firm.

 .Soo Jeon nodded, leaning into him. "We'll always find our way back to each other, no matter what..

 "They sealed their vow with a kiss, the city's lights twinkling around them as if celebrating their unwavering love.