CHAPTER FIVE: FAKE GIRLFRIEND

BAE JIHO'S POV

"What?!" Mia exclaimed after I finished telling her everything. Her voice was a bit loud, and I could feel the eyes of everyone around us on us. "Sorry..." she whispered to the onlookers before turning back to me. "How did this happen?" she asked, her curiosity evident.

"It just did," I replied, taking a sip of my juice to calm my nerves. "And you just said yes to him?" she pressed on. "I didn't just say yes," I explained. "I questioned him, pointed out how crazy his idea was, and even asked why he picked me of all people. Then he offered me a favor in return, and that's when I got trapped."

Mia dramatically fanned herself, clearly shocked. "Wow... for someone who claims they don't want to cross paths with him, you're not doing a great job at it," she remarked, and I couldn't help but nod in agreement. "So what's this favor you want to ask him? It must be something you really like if you're willing to do this with him," she continued, and I nodded again.

"Does this have something to do with why you stopped being his fan?" she inquired, and I sighed, confirming with another nod. "And you're still not willing to share with me?" she pressed. "No, it's okay..." she quickly added before I could respond. "Feel free to share when the time feels right," she said, giving me a soft smile.

Why I stopped being Han Jinwoo's fan wasn't a huge secret, but there was something I needed to hear from him to confirm if he really was the jerk I thought he was back then or if I had been mistaken.

"Let's go," Mia said, pulling me from my thoughts. "Huh?" I blinked, trying to catch up.

"You have an important event tomorrow," she continued, urgency in her voice. "You need to pick out a nice outfit, get your hair done, and more. So let's go!" I chuckled softly, considering how hectic things had been.

"What about your restaurant? You seem pretty busy," I pointed out, glancing around at the bustling customers.

"The restaurant will be fine. Ivan will help me manage everything," she reassured me with a wave of her hand.

I shrugged, "Well, I don't need to buy a new outfit. I have plenty to choose from."

Mia shot me a glare that made me rethink my statement. "Visualize your wardrobe. Are you sure you have that one stunning outfit to wear to the Han mansion family dinner and introduce yourself as Han Jinwoo's girlfriend?"

I paused, the weight of her words sinking in. Maybe not. "Alright, maybe not," I admitted.

"I'll go get my purse," Mia said excitedly.

*

*

As I stepped into the designer boutique, the air was filled with a mix of luxury and anticipation. A shopping assistant greeted us with a bright smile, "Welcome to C and C designer store...how may I help you?"

Mia, ever the playful one, rolled her eyes. "Come on, Lana, what's with the formalities...and the uniforms?" It was clear they had a history, and I could sense the camaraderie between them.

Lana laughed, brushing off Mia's comment. "Right... apparently our new boss thinks this is smarter than when we used to dress ourselves up."

"Are you here for the usual?" she asked Mia, who nodded in agreement.

"No, I'm not here for myself today but rather for her," Mia said, turning the spotlight onto me.

"Nice to meet you, miss... I'm Lana Cheng and I'll be your shopping assistant for today. How may I help you?" she asked, her tone shifting from formal to friendly as laughter bubbled up between them, and I couldn't help but join in.

"Jiho, this is Lana, a friend of mine. We both went to college together, and Lana, this is Bae Jiho, my soul sister," Mia introduced us as we shook hands, a connection forming in that brief moment.

Lana's eyes widened in recognition. "Wait a minute... I know you," she said, studying my face with a spark of excitement. "You're from that movie... what was the name?"

"Yes, she's from The Hunted," Mia chimed in, a proud smile on her face.

"Yes! I remember you... oh my goodness, I'm such a fan," Lana exclaimed, shaking my hand again, this time with more enthusiasm.

"Nice to meet you," I replied, feeling a mix of flattery and surprise.

"You definitely have to leave your signature on our Hall of Fame once you're done with your shopping," she suggested, and I nodded, a smile creeping onto my face at the idea.

"Okay, I'll show you to the private rooms," she said, leading the way as Mia and I followed, the promise of an exciting shopping experience ahead.

Arriving at the luxurious private rooms, we were asked to take a seat. "What should I get you?" Lana asked, her smile brightening the space. "I'll have some water," I replied, feeling a bit parched. "Some wine as usual," Mia chimed in with a chuckle, and I glanced around, taking in the opulence. "Okay, I'll be right back," Lana said, turning to leave.

As the door closed behind her, I turned to Mia, a hint of anxiety creeping in. "Okay, what's next? Is this the part where I try on a million clothes while you reject each one?" I asked, half-joking. Mia laughed, shaking her head. "Stop, you're making me look like a villain!" she replied, feigning innocence. "Well, you are when it comes to shopping," I shot back, a playful warning in my tone. "But I'm serious—I'm not trying on more than five outfits, max." She nodded, pretending to understand, but moments later, I found myself staring at three filled racks of clothes I had to try on, one by one.

"Mia!!" I hissed under my breath, shooting her a glare, but she just looked back at me with the most innocent smile. "Don't worry, if you start now, we might find your perfect pick in thirty minutes," she assured me, as I begrudgingly picked up a few dresses from the racks and headed to the dressing room, leaving her to sip her wine.

As I tried on each dress, I couldn't shake off the familiar statements echoing in my mind: "Too tight... too saggy... too long... too out of occasion." Finally, it came down to the last dress. "This better be it," I thought to myself, feeling the weight of my search. I had to admit, Mia was right—I still hadn't found my perfect fit.

I slowly slipped on the last dress—a black off-shoulder number with a deep V neckline and puffy sleeves. It hugged my waist perfectly, accentuating my curves in all the right ways. The length was just right, sliding gracefully above my knees, giving it an elegant touch. And oh my goodness, it had pockets on each side! "Okay, this might be it," I said with a smile, stepping out to await Mia's judgment. "This is the last one, I swear," I warned her, watching as she stood up to carefully scan me.

"Why aren't you saying anything?" I questioned, noticing her gaze was fixed on me. "Hold your hair up in a bun," she instructed, and I complied, tucking my hair away. As she smiled brightly, I felt a surge of confidence. "This is it... Jiho... gosh, you look so pretty," she exclaimed. I stepped in front of the mirror and couldn't help but agree. "Though we need to get some simple jewelry for your ears and neck; those can't be left bare," she added, her excitement palpable. "And you can wear the golden open-toe, thin strap heels I gifted you for your birthday last year. It hurts that you haven't worn them at all." I nodded, feeling a rush of appreciation for her enthusiasm.

"Okay, now that we're done with shopping, I'll treat you to a wholesome dinner to make up for having you go back and forth in the dressing room today," she said, and I clapped softly, thrilled by the idea. "I'll go and change," I replied cheerfully, heading back to take off the dress, my heart light with the excitement of the evening ahead.

*

*

"Cheers," we both said, clinking our glasses together in a toast. It wasn't long before our ordered meals arrived, the delicious aromas wafting towards us. "Thank you for the meal," I said to Mia, my excitement bubbling over as I glanced at the spread before us. Without wasting another moment, I dug in, savoring each bite with pure delight.

*

*

HAN JINWOO'S POV

"Or you could say you're sick and can't make it... or maybe tell him you're busy," Junho suggested over the phone. I scoffed at his words. "Stop coming up with excuses for me... I'll be going to the dinner," I replied firmly, sensing his deep sigh on the other end. "You know damn well how Dad can be manipulative... what happens after he convinces you to marry Riya?" he pressed.

"Well, that won't happen. You know why? Because I'm past the age of manipulation. In fact, I have a surprise for him," I responded, a smirk creeping onto my face. "Surprise? Why do I sense you're going to do something crazy?" he replied, and I couldn't help but smack my lips in amusement. "Just wait and see," I teased.

"Okay then... Manager Hong is here, and we have some things to discuss. I'll see you later today," I said, wrapping up the call. As I hung up, Manager Hong settled into his seat. "Do you have something on for later?" he asked. "Yes, a family dinner," I replied, and he nodded in understanding. "Okay then, let's get this over with quickly." He pulled out some paperwork, and I could feel the weight of the moment. "That's the contract for the apartment. I've already talked to the owner, and you can move in anytime, preferably tomorrow," he explained. I picked up the contract, my eyes scanning the details, but I caught him staring at me. "Is there anything else?" I asked, raising an eyebrow as he chuckled softly..."Are you sure you're just going to a family dinner? You seem a bit overdressed... is that gel in your hair?" he asked, extending his arm to touch my hair, but I brushed it off. "What's wrong? I always apply gel in my hair," I countered, trying to keep my tone light. "Where else would I be going? You know I value my weekends," I added, hoping to steer the conversation back on track.

"A date," he shot back, and I couldn't help but scoff, letting out a chuckle. "Sorry to burst your bubble, but it's just a family dinner," I replied, returning my focus to the contract in front of me. "If you say so," he said, standing up. "Just make sure to read through that carefully. I already did, but you have the right to as well. If you agree with the terms, just put your signature on it, and I'll call a moving company to prepare for your move tomorrow."

I nodded in acknowledgment. "Thank you," I said as he turned to leave. "Have a nice day," he called out as he walked away. I couldn't help but chuckle at our conversation, shaking my head slightly, before diving back into the details of the contract.

After reading through the contract, my phone buzzed with a text from Bae Jiho letting me know she was ready. I made my way to her apartment building to pick her up...and when I arrived I called her... "Hello," I said as she answered the call. "Hey, have you arrived?" she asked. "Yes, I'm waiting downstairs," I replied. "Okay, I'll be there soon," she said before hanging up.

I leaned back in the car, keeping an eye on the entrance. I couldn't step out; the last thing I needed was paparazzi catching me unguarded. My gaze drifted outside, and then I spotted Bae Jiho making her way toward where I had parked. I couldn't help but stare as she walked, nearly tripping but quickly regaining her composure, glancing around to see if anyone had noticed. It made me chuckle. "What is she doing?" I wondered, rolling down the car window and calling out to her. "Here!" I signaled, and she quickened her pace.

As she slid into the passenger seat, I reminded her, "Fasten your seat belt." "Thank you," she replied, doing as I asked. I glanced at her again, unable to suppress my smile. "What?" she asked, noticing my expression. "Nothing... you're looking good," I said, watching her cheeks flush slightly. "Thank you... you're not looking bad either," she replied, her flustered tone making me smile even more. "Shall we?" I asked, and she nodded. With that, we set off.

*

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BAE JIHO'S POV

After sitting in nothing but awkward silence for most of the journey, I finally broke the tension. "So what's the plan?" I asked, glancing over at him. "The plan is for us to convince my dad and the Sharmas that I'm dating you," he replied. I nodded, trying to wrap my head around everything he was saying. "So what do I need to do?" I inquired, feeling a bit flustered.

He chuckled softly, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "You just need to be my girlfriend," he said, and I felt my cheeks heat up. "Right... I know... but are you sure your dad won't catch on?" I questioned, a hint of worry creeping into my voice. "He might," he admitted, "but it isn't him that I want to convince the most. It's the Sharmas. They love their daughter way too much to even think about marrying her off to a guy who's already in a relationship. Only my dad can be that shameless."

I could sense the tension in his voice when he spoke about his dad, and it made me realize their relationship wasn't the best. "I'll do my best," I replied, fidgeting with my fingers nervously. "I know you will. You're a good actress," he said with a smile, and I couldn't help but glance out the window, trying to hide my flustered expression. "Calm down... I'll be right there with you," he added, and my heart skipped a beat.

*

*

As we pulled up to the Han mansion, I couldn't help but be taken aback by the sight before me. A tall, imposing fence surrounded the property, its ornate design hinting at the wealth within. The gates were grand, crafted from wrought iron and adorned with intricate patterns that gleamed in the sunlight.

Once the gates swung open, we drove down a long, winding driveway flanked by perfectly manicured hedges and colorful flower beds. I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as we approached the mansion itself.

The house was nothing short of breathtaking. It loomed majestically, with its elegant architecture and large windows that sparkled like diamonds. I could see a sprawling swimming pool glistening in the backyard, surrounded by lounge chairs and palm trees that swayed gently in the breeze.

There were also hints of luxury everywhere I looked—statues in the garden, a fountain trickling softly.

"Shall we?" Jinwoo asked, and I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves. "Yes," I replied, watching him slowly step out of the car before coming around to my side. He opened the door for me, a gesture that made my heart flutter. "Come on," he said, extending his hand toward me.

I hesitated for a moment before placing my fingers in his, stepping out of the car. However, my heels betrayed me, and I almost stumbled, catching myself just before I fell into his arms. "Sorry," I quickly mumbled, feeling a rush of embarrassment as I slipped away from his embrace. "Let's head in," I said, trying to regain my composure. Jinwoo offered his arm, and I slid mine through it, feeling a mix of excitement and intimidation as we walked toward the mansion.

As we approached the entrance, my heart raced even faster. "Nanny Park, what are you doing out here?" Jinwoo asked, and I noticed an older woman standing by the door. "Madam Yifen asked me to keep an eye out for when you arrive," she replied, glancing at me with curiosity. "And this is?" she inquired, her gaze shifting back to him. "This is Bae Jiho, but I can only let you know who she is and why she's here together with everyone else," he added, and I felt a sense of relief as Nanny Park greeted me with a warm smile, which I returned. "Okay then, come on in. Everyone has already arrived," she said, leading us inside.

As I stepped over the threshold, my jaw dropped at the sight that met my eyes. The luxurious interior was beyond anything I had imagined. "Han Jinwoo, is that you?" another woman called out, approaching us with a bright smile. "Yifen," Jinwoo replied, and they embraced, leaving me momentarily speechless as I took in the opulence surrounding us....As I stood there, a wave of familiarity washed over me as Madam Yifen looked at me and said, "And this is... wait, you actually seem familiar." I glanced back at Han Jinwoo, who nodded at me... "Hello, I am Bae Jiho," I introduced myself, extending my hand for a shake.

"Right, Bae Jiho... from the Hunted," she replied, and I couldn't help but smile brightly at the recognition. "Yes," I confirmed, feeling a sense of pride.

"Okay, okay, you both will get to know more about each other later on. Nanny Park told me that the Sharma's have arrived. It's already late; let's go and meet them," Han Jinwoo interjected, guiding us forward.

"Right, this way," Madam Yifen said, leading us into a large living room filled with expectant faces. As we entered, all eyes shifted toward us, and I felt a rush of nerves.

"Hello everyone, sorry I am late," Han Jinwoo greeted, bowing slightly, and I mirrored his gesture. I couldn't shake the feeling of being scrutinized, especially since our arms were locked together.

"Aren't you going to introduce your friend to us?" I recognized the voice of Han Yiran, the business mogul, as he directed his attention toward us.

Han Jinwoo turned to me, his expression serious yet confident. "Well, this is Bae Jiho... and you're wrong; she isn't just a friend, but my girlfriend. So everyone, Dad, Yifen, Mr. and Mrs. Sharma, Riya, meet Bae Jiho, my girlfriend." My heart raced at his words, knowing this was all an act, yet feeling a thrill at the title he had given me.

"And Bae Jiho, that's my dad," he added, and I bowed to greet him, my heart still pounding from his declaration but mostly from every ones reactions as they all turned their attention to me.

"That's Mr. and Mrs. Sharma... our family's close friends and business associates," he said, and I nodded humbly as I greeted them. The introductions felt heavy, each name carrying its own weight. Then he paused slightly, "And this is... Yifen... my... mom..." he added, and I acknowledged her with a slight bow, feeling the gravity of the moment.

"And finally..." Han Jinwoo continued, but before he could finish, a woman interjected, "Riya Sharma... his childhood friend." She extended her hand to me with a warm smile, and I felt a bit of tension ease. "Nice to meet you," I replied, hoping my voice didn't betray my nerves.

"Where is Junho?" Han Jinwoo asked, scanning the room.

"He isn't here yet, but he said he'll make it in time for dinner," Madam Yifen replied, her calm demeanor providing some reassurance.

"You can both have a seat and join in. I'll go check on the meals," she added, and Han Jinwoo nodded, leading me to where everyone was seated. As we approached, I couldn't shake the feeling of being under a microscope, especially with his father's piercing gaze on us.

"Jinwoo... can we talk?" his dad's voice sliced through the atmosphere, firm and commanding. I glanced back at Han Jinwoo, who offered me a reassuring smile.

"I'll be back," he said before standing up to follow his father. The tension in the room was palpable, and I felt a wave of anxiety wash over me. This was just the beginning, and I couldn't help but wonder what the evening would unfold for me.

*

*

HAN JINWOO'S POV

"Don't you think it's a little rude to leave our guests alone while we come up here to talk?" I shot back, feeling the tension thickening in the air. My dad's glare was sharp, cutting through my defiance. "What do you think you're doing?" he questioned, his voice low and dangerous.

I scoffed, my frustration boiling over. "What exactly are you talking about?" I challenged him. "I'm talking about that charade you pulled downstairs... girlfriend? Is it just a coincidence that you finally introduce someone to us right after I mention an arranged marriage between you and Riya?" he retorted, his tone dripping with annoyance.

"Stop acting up... and follow the plan," he continued, his voice firm. "The Sharmas are an important part of the new project the company is going to work on. Rather than just business associates, I think we'll benefit more from them if they are as close as family." I couldn't help but chuckle softly, the absurdity of the situation hitting me.

"Wow, Dad... how do you manage to make the most selfish decisions and twist them to make it seem like it's for the benefit of us all?" I said, my laughter growing louder. "Look, I don't know what you're thinking, but like I introduced downstairs, Bae Jiho is my girlfriend, and I love her so much. I'm not willing to break that up for an arranged marriage that only benefits you and your ego." My voice was firm, resolute.

"So find another way to get your project done. The family business is none of my business anyway," I finished, standing my ground. As he raised his hand to slap me, I caught it just in time, the tension between us crackling in the air.

"Come on, Dad... I'm way past the age of letting you hurt me just because your ego has been bruised," I said, pushing his hand away with a mix of frustration and defiance. "Let's get back to the guests," I concluded, turning to walk out of the room. The weight of our conversation hung heavily on my shoulders, leaving me feeling frustrated and overwhelmed.

As I stepped into the hallway, I heard my name being called. "Jinwoo!" I turned to see Junho running towards me, his expression serious. "Hey, where have you been?" I asked, noticing the glare etched on his face.

"What's wrong?" I pressed, sensing something was off. "Did Dad yell at you?" he asked, and I chuckled softly, shaking my head. "No, he didn't. We just talked," I replied, trying to downplay the tension.

He nodded, but I could see the concern in his eyes. "Right... when did it happen?" he asked, a hint of curiosity mixed with disbelief in his voice. "What?" I questioned, playing dumb for a moment. "You and Bae Jiho. You have no idea how shocked I was to find her seated in our living room, and to make it all the more shocking... Riya tells me that she is your girlfriend," he explained, his eyes wide with surprise.

"When did it happen? How come you didn't share with me?" he pressed again, and I couldn't help but chuckle softly, watching him ponder over the unexpected revelation.

*

*

BAE JIHO'S POV

I sat there, enveloped in a thick silence, my heart racing as the Sharma family fired off questions that felt more like an interrogation. They seemed genuinely nice, but the tension in the air was palpable. Riya's voice broke through my anxious thoughts, "Their talk is taking longer than expected... you don't think he's in trouble with his dad?" Her concern struck a chord within me. "This meeting was supposed to be about Jinwoo and our families coming together.." she added her honesty was refreshing as she continued, "They wanted to discuss our marriage." I appreciated her straightforwardness, but it only added to my unease. "But I want you to know... that I have no intention of going forward with the arrangement either, and I would be more than glad if my parents are convinced," she added, and I nodded, realizing we were in this together. "Well, if that's the case, then I think you and Jinwoo should talk about it... with your parents," I suggested, hoping to ease the tension that seemed to cling to us.

Just then, the door swung open, and there he was—Han Jinwoo. Something felt off about him as he approached slowly, and I couldn't shake the feeling of worry. "Are you okay?" I asked, my concern slipping through my words. He nodded, but the unease in his eyes told me otherwise. "I am fine," he replied, though I doubted him.

Madam Yifen's voice broke the moment, "Okay, now that we're all here and meals are ready, I would request you all to make your way to the dining room." As everyone began to rise, I felt a mix of anticipation and apprehension about what this meeting would mean for all of us. "Let's go," Jinwoo said, and I followed him, my mind racing with thoughts of the uncertain future that lay ahead.

As we reached the dining table, Han Jinwoo gracefully pulled out a seat for me right next to him. I settled in, casting a glance around as everyone else took their places. Just then, Mr. Han walked in, and I noticed a subtle shift in Jinwoo's expression—a mix of apprehension and something else I couldn't quite place. "Sorry to keep everyone waiting... let's dig in," Mr. Han announced, his voice commanding yet casual.

"Thank you for the meal," Mr. Sharma said, and soon, everyone echoed the sentiment, including me. My voice came out barely above a whisper, but I hoped it conveyed my gratitude. As I looked around the table, contemplating what to try first, I felt a gentle nudge as Jinwoo placed a dish in front of me. "Try that... it's Yifen's signature stir-fry beef," he encouraged, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.

I took a bite and immediately felt the flavors burst in my mouth, but as I chewed, I became acutely aware of the eyes on me, all waiting for my reaction. "How is it?" Jinwoo asked, his voice laced with curiosity. I smiled softly, feeling a warmth spread through me. "It's really good," I replied, and he beamed, serving me another helping. "Then have some more," he urged, and I nodded, diving back into the meal.

The atmosphere around the table felt light, laughter and conversation flowing easily, yet I couldn't shake the tension that lingered between Jinwoo and his father. After we finished our meal, we moved back to the living room, where dessert awaited us—delicious carrot cake.

"Thank you," I said to Madam Yifen as she handed me my slice of carrot cake. I admired her calm demeanor; she seemed to have everything perfectly under control. "Have a taste... this is also one of Yifen's signature dishes," Jinwoo encouraged, a playful glint in his eyes. I couldn't help but chuckle softly at his enthusiasm.

"What?" he asked, curious about my laughter. "I just love the little comments you keep making about Madam Yifen's food," I replied, a smile spreading across my face. He returned my smile, a hint of pride in his expression. "It can't be helped," he said with a lighthearted shrug as I took a bite of the cake.

"How is it?" he asked again, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. I nodded in excitement, savoring the rich flavors. "She really needs to open a restaurant somehow... and I think Mia would definitely glare at me for this suggestion." As I spoke, I noticed Jinwoo gazing at me, his focus oddly fixed on my lips. "You've got something here," he said, and I quickly rushed to wipe it away. But before I could react, he reached out and wiped it off with his fingers, sending a shiver down my spine.

Just then, a voice broke the moment. "Excuse me!" I pulled my gaze away, startled. "Yes?" I replied, turning to see a young man standing there. "I am Han Junho... Jinwoo's brother. The two of us have met before; you signed the back of my uniform," he said, a grin spreading across his face. I couldn't help but chuckle at the memory. "I remember you—17 but shorter," I teased, and he beamed at my recognition.

"Yes, yes, that's me," he replied, his gaze lingering on me, a little too long for comfort. "I think you should take your seat, Junho, and let Jiho have her dessert," Madam Yifen interjected, and he quickly complied, his cheeks flushing. "Right," he said, and everyone erupted in laughter at his goofy charm, lightening the mood further.

*

*

"Now that's more like it..." Riya sighed, a sense of relief washing over her. "You can all breathe now that the parents are away discussing business." She looked around the room, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Should we also have some wine... or beer?"

"I can't drink... I have to drive Jiho home later," Jinwoo replied, his tone serious yet playful.

"Awww... are you the same Han Jinwoo who cut off my pigtails back in elementary school? So you do have a caring side to you," Riya teased, casting a glance at him. I shot Jinwoo a glare, silently urging him to defend himself.

"She's lying... Hey ! I think something is wrong with your memory. You were the one who provoked me first when you stole my clothes and had me running around in my undergarments. What I did was justified revenge," he retorted, a grin spreading across his face as he shifted his attention back to me. "I can't have the wine, but you can, if you like."

I nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. Riya cheerfully brought over a bottle and some glasses, pouring me a generous glass. "Thank you," I said, appreciating her vibrant energy.

"You're more than welcome! We're going to finish up the entire bottle... you wouldn't mind that, Han Jinwoo?" she quipped, her playful challenge hanging in the air.

"I would... my girlfriend is a light drinker. Don't have her drinking more than she can handle," he said, a protective edge to his voice that made me smile softly.

I cleared my throat, trying to shake off the warmth of the moment. The lines between reality and fiction were starting to blur, and I reminded myself that I was here as a fake girlfriend, and that was it. With that thought, I took a sip of my drink, letting the coolness wash over me.

After our drink session with Riya, it was time to leave. Madam Yifen looked at us with concern. "Are you sure you both can't just stay over and leave tomorrow? It's already late," she said, her voice warm and inviting.

Han Jinwoo shook his head gently. "It's okay. We both have some work to get done tomorrow, but I'll make sure to come back and visit," he replied, his tone reassuring.

"You mean you both will make sure to come back and visit," she corrected playfully, a twinkle in her eye.

"Yes, Madam Yifen. I'll make sure to come and visit along with Jinwoo," I interjected, hoping to ease her worries. Her smile widened at my words, and I could feel the warmth radiating from her.

"Just call me Yifen. The madam title makes me feel old," she chuckled, and I couldn't help but join in her laughter.

"Okay... thank you for having me, Yifen," I said, feeling a sense of gratitude wash over me as she pulled me in for a warm embrace.

"The pleasure was mine," she replied, her voice sincere.

"Okay then, you should be on your way since it's already late," she advised, glancing at the clock.

"Oh, by the way... these are snacks I made. You can have them after you go back," she added, as Nanny Park handed us paper bags filled with treats.

"Thank you," I said humbly, appreciating her thoughtfulness.

"You're welcome," she replied, her kindness evident as we turned to leave.

I settled into the car, waiting for Han Jinwoo to finish his private conversation with Yifen. As I stared out the window, I caught sight of him making his way towards the car, and I couldn't help but watch intently. With each step he took, the lines between reality and fiction seemed to blur, and my heart raced faster. Was it just my imagination, or was there something more to this moment?

I placed my hand over my pounding heart, silently urging it to calm down. There was absolutely no way we were meant to fall for him—NEVER. Yet, as he drew closer, I felt a strange mix of excitement and apprehension. It was as if the world around us faded, leaving only the undeniable connection I was trying so hard to ignore.

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