Chapter 2: The Unexpected Guest

The grand halls of the Kim estate were buzzing with the clinking of glasses and the low hum of small talk as the evening went on. Naomi Kim had managed to slip away from the stiff formality of the event, finding refuge on the balcony. She had expected a quiet night, but Lian Zhang's unexpected and rather amusing entrance had thrown her plans off course in the best way possible.

After Naomi's spontaneous intervention, Lian was invited inside and offered a guest room for the night. Naomi had insisted, partly because she was curious about the bold photographer and partly because she was enjoying the disruption Lian had brought to her otherwise dull evening.

Now, the two of them were sitting in a cozy room off the main ballroom, away from the nosy crowd. The room was elegantly furnished, with soft lighting that made it feel warm and inviting.

Lian, still buzzing with excitement from her unusual adventure, perched on the edge of a fancy sofa with her camera beside her. Naomi, settled comfortably in a plush armchair, looked at Lian with a mix of amusement and curiosity.

"So, tell me," Naomi began with a playful smile, leaning forward, "what made you decide to climb our wall and risk getting caught by my very dedicated bodyguard?"

Lian's eyes sparkled as she met Naomi's gaze. "Well, it's not every day you get a chance to photograph a palace wall with a view of moonlit gardens. Plus, I thought it'd make for a cool shot. I didn't realize I'd end up playing the role of a cat burglar."

Naomi chuckled. "You definitely made a memorable impression. I have to admit, the wall-climbing was impressive. Most people would've just used the garden path."

Lian grinned, shrugging like it was no big deal. "I like to think outside the box. Or in this case, outside the garden."

Naomi laughed. "I can tell. I'm curious—how did you even find out about our estate?"

Lian's expression turned mischievous. "Oh, you know, a little birdie told me. Actually, it was a travel magazine. I've been looking for interesting places to shoot, and your estate seemed promising. I didn't expect to end up in what felt like a spy thriller."

Naomi leaned back in her chair, shaking her head with a grin. "You've definitely livened up my evening. Speaking of excitement, how about we get you something to eat? You must be starving after your little adventure."

Lian's eyes lit up. "That sounds amazing. I'm always up for a good meal, especially after a night of wall-climbing."

Naomi led the way to a more relaxed dining area where a buffet had been set up. As they approached, Naomi spotted a tray of pastries and made a beeline for it.

"Help yourself," Naomi said, gesturing to the spread. "I'm sure you'll find something you like."

Lian's eyes widened as she took in the array of delicious treats. "Wow, this looks incredible. I didn't know the Kim estate had a pastry chef with such a talent for temptation."

Naomi laughed. "We've got a few culinary talents around here. Feel free to indulge. After all, you've earned it."

As they both reached for the same éclair, their hands brushed against each other. The brief contact sent a jolt through both of them, and they exchanged a surprised look.

"Sorry about that," Lian said, her cheeks turning slightly pink. "Didn't mean to invade your pastry space."

Naomi raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile on her lips. "No worries. It's not every day I get to share éclairs with a wall-climbing photographer."

They continued chatting and laughing, the conversation flowing easily. Naomi found herself more and more charmed by Lian's wit and enthusiasm, while Lian was equally fascinated by Naomi's intelligence and warmth.

As they enjoyed their pastries, Lian leaned in with a conspiratorial grin. "So, what's it like being the president's daughter? I bet you have some interesting stories."

Naomi chuckled, shaking her head. "Honestly, it's not as glamorous as it sounds. There's a lot of pressure and expectations. Sometimes, I just want to escape and live a normal life."

Lian's eyes sparkled with understanding. "I get that. I'm always on the move, trying to capture the beauty of the world and avoid being tied down. It's nice to meet someone who gets it."

Naomi smiled, appreciating the connection they were forming. "It's refreshing to talk to someone who doesn't see me as just a political figure."

Their conversation was interrupted by a bit of commotion outside the dining area. Jung Soo appeared, looking slightly flustered.

"Miss Kim," he said, trying to keep his composure, "I've been told to make sure Ms. Zhang doesn't cause any more... disturbances."

Naomi raised an eyebrow. "Oh, Jung Soo, are you saying my new friend here is a troublemaker?"

Jung Soo's expression softened a bit. "Not at all. Just doing my job."

Lian, sensing the seriousness of the situation, gave Jung Soo a friendly smile. "I promise I'll behave. I'm just here for a nice chat and some pastries."

Jung Soo nodded, though he still seemed a bit wary. "Very well. If you need anything, just let me know."

As Jung Soo walked away, Naomi and Lian exchanged amused glances.

"I think he's more worried about the pastries than about me," Lian said with a laugh. "Maybe I should consider a new career as a pastry thief."

Naomi's laughter was contagious. "If you do, I'll have to recommend you to our pastry chef. You'd make a great addition to the team."

Their evening continued with light-hearted banter and shared stories. Naomi found herself opening up in a way she hadn't in a long time. Lian's presence was like a breath of fresh air, and the chemistry between them was undeniable.

As the night drew to a close, Naomi and Lian reluctantly said their goodbyes. Lian, now a welcomed guest rather than an intruder, was escorted out with a promise to return for another visit.

Naomi watched her leave, feeling a strange mix of anticipation and contentment. The evening had turned out far better than she had expected, and she couldn't help but look forward to seeing Lian again.