CHAPTER 17 (Long Chapter)

Time rushed by like the relentless flow of a river, and months had slipped away effortlessly for Youn-Jae. After his father discovered what he had done back in Korea with the building, the Chairman stormed into Youn-Jae's apartment, his disappointment palpable. With a sharp demand, he forced Youn-Jae to return to Germany immediately.

Now, fully immersed in his work, Youn-Jae's memories of Korea seemed distant, as if washed away by the demands of his daily life. The back-to-back meetings, endless phone calls, and business dinners left little room for reflection. His focus was sharp, navigating his business empire with the same precision and intensity that had always defined him. The German market remained as challenging as ever, but he thrived under the pressure, his mind consumed with strategy and ambition.

"Everything ready for the meeting at ten?" Youn-Jae asked, his voice steady, with a sharp edge of authority, his gaze flicking toward Secretary Min.

Secretary Min, ever efficient, handed over a file, nodding respectfully. "Yes, President. The partners are expecting you."

"Good," Youn-Jae replied curtly, his eyes scanning the file for a moment.

As Youn-Jae settled into the plush leather seat of his sleek car, the cityscape of Frankfurt blurred past the window. He leaned back, his fingers tapping rhythmically against the armrest, his mind momentarily wandering from the task at hand.

"President," Secretary Min's voice broke through the quiet hum of the engine, his tone clipped and professional, "Chairman called this morning. He wants to know how long he's going to wait for your answer."

Youn-Jae's brow furrowed slightly as he glanced up from his thoughts. He rubbed his temple with his thumb, an old habit whenever something irritated him. "Has Father really agreed to my brother's idea?" he asked, his voice carrying a hint of disbelief and mild irritation. His gaze shifted back toward the passing cityscape, trying to quell the frustration rising within him.

"Absolutely, President," Secretary Min replied, his voice steady but tinged with a note of caution. "Especially after what happened in Korea. He's paying much closer attention to you now. He's not giving you much choice in this."

A heavy sigh escaped Youn-Jae's lips as he leaned back into the seat, rubbing his temples harder this time. The tension in his posture was evident as his shoulders sagged. "It's already over," he muttered, exasperation creeping into his tone. "Why is everyone still making such a fuss over it?"

"I warned you back then," Secretary Min interjected calmly, his expression neutral but his words carrying the weight of hindsight. "But you never listen."

Youn-Jae let out another long, frustrated sigh, his fingers now drumming impatiently against the seat. "Just tell Father we have too much to handle here. We can't afford to fly to America right now," he said sharply, his voice laced with frustration. He turned his gaze back to the window, watching the blur of buildings outside, his thoughts racing ahead.

Secretary Min shook his head slightly, his lips pressing into a thin line. He knew this dance too well. "You know he won't accept that," he replied, his tone matter-of-fact but with a hint of resigned practicality.

Youn-Jae's shoulders slumped further, a deep frown etched across his face. He let out a heavy breath, the weight of expectation pressing down on him. "Then book a ticket for next week," he said, his voice low and laced with quiet defeat. "Maybe that'll stop them from hounding me."

Secretary Min offered a nod, his eyes steady and calm, though the subtle tension in his posture betrayed his concern. "I suggest you just follow through this time," he advised, his tone soft but firm. "Especially with your father. You know how persistent he can be. It might be best to show him some compliance."

Youn-Jae remained silent for a moment, his fingers gripping the armrest tightly as he processed the suggestion. Finally, he gave a slow, weary nod. "Alright," he conceded, his voice flat, devoid of enthusiasm but resigned to the reality of the situation. The weight of responsibility hung heavily on him, as it always had.

Just then, the sharp ring of Secretary Min's phone cut through the air. He glanced down at the screen, his brow furrowing slightly in curiosity. "It's from Korea," he murmured, "but it's not the Chairman this time."

Youn-Jae's expression shifted, his irritation momentarily forgotten as he turned to watch Secretary Min answer the call.

"Hello?" Secretary Min's voice was professional, his posture straightening as he listened intently. His brows knitted together as the caller from the university began to speak, his expression shifting from neutral to one of careful concern.

After a few moments, he ended the call and adjusted his glasses before turning back to Youn-Jae. "President," he began, his voice calm yet deliberate, "they've sent us the initial list of names. The final list will be available after the Spring enrollment."

Youn-Jae's expression darkened slightly at the mention of Korea. He crossed his arms, leaning back into the seat, his jaw tightening. "I don't want to go back to Korea," he said firmly, his words slow and deliberate, each one carrying the weight of his determination. His voice wavered, almost imperceptibly, when he added, "Not until we find Ji-Won."

For a moment, the name seemed to hang in the air, laden with unspoken emotion. Youn-Jae's eyes flickered with something—regret, pain, longing—but he quickly steeled himself, pushing it back beneath the surface. His voice grew colder, more controlled as he continued, "So make sure everything is settled here, even if we're miles away."

Secretary Min nodded, his expression respectful but knowing. "Understood, President," he replied with calm resolve. "I'll take care of it. You don't have to worry."

Youn-Jae gave a curt nod, his gaze drifting back to the city beyond the window, though his mind was far from the skyline of Frankfurt. The weight of unresolved matters, of choices made and consequences faced, loomed large, and yet, for now, all he could do was move forward.

***

The bustling atmosphere of Frankfurt Airport was filled with the constant hum of travelers and the rhythmic sounds of luggage wheels gliding across polished floors. Flight information screens flickered above, announcing arrivals and departures in a dozen languages. Among the sea of passengers, a sense of anticipation and hurried movement spread through the crowd.

A crisp, authoritative voice echoed through the terminal's PA system, cutting through the noise:

"Attention all passengers on flight LH456 bound for the United States, this is your final boarding call. Please proceed to boarding gate A17 immediately. We appreciate your cooperation and wish you a pleasant journey."

Travelers swiftly grabbed their belongings, the pace quickening as they headed toward Gate A17. The path was lined with duty-free shops and bustling cafés, with the sounds of overlapping announcements filling the air.

In the quieter VIP lounge, Secretary Min leaned in toward Youn-Jae, his voice steady. "President, Mr. Kim just sent a message—they've already arrived in the US."

Youn-Jae, skimming through his papers, chuckled softly without looking up. "Fast, isn't it?" He stood up, gathering his things with a smooth efficiency, his expression composed. "Let's head to the boarding gate."

As they walked out of the lounge, Secretary Min hurriedly added, "The university has sent another list of names."

Youn-Jae nodded, his gaze distant, already focused on their next move. "Let's review it once we get to the US," he said, brushing off the details for later.

As they boarded the plane, the atmosphere shifted from the hectic terminal to the calm of business class. The plush seats and warm lighting offered a brief reprieve. Youn-Jae and Secretary Min settled into their seats, greeted by the cabin crew with practiced smiles.

"Let's get comfortable and go over the documents," Youn-Jae said, pulling out his laptop. He spoke without pausing, his focus unwavering as he navigated between files on the screen.

Secretary Min, his brow furrowing slightly, watched him for a moment before interjecting, "Aren't you going to take a break? It's a long trip."

Without looking up, Youn-Jae's lips curled into a faint, distracted smile. "I just need to finish this first. Then I'll rest."

Secretary Min shook his head lightly, his tone growing more insistent. "Just take a break, President. It's going to be even more exhausting when we get there. You know that."

Youn-Jae sighed, his fingers slowing on the keyboard. He glanced briefly, his expression unreadable but tinged with weariness. "I'll rest when I can. But right now, there's no time."

The hours ticked by in a blur of work and fleeting moments of rest. Youn-Jae alternated between typing furiously and taking short, restless naps. Occasionally, his gaze would drift toward the screen tracking their flight, but it always snapped back to his laptop before he could linger.

As the flight attendant's voice crackled over the intercom, signaling their descent, Youn-Jae reluctantly closed his laptop. He stretched, rubbing the back of his neck, and glanced out the window. The sprawling lights of New York City were now visible beneath them, a sharp contrast to the endless sky.

"Here we are, diving into the new drama," Youn-Jae murmured, gazing out the window with a hint of resignation.

"President, stop sulking," Secretary Min teased, a playful smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

Youn-Jae shook his head, visibly displeased. "I really don't like the idea of coming to America, especially with Hyung constantly pushing me to marry."

Secretary Min chuckled

"Shouldn't it be Hyung who's getting married instead of me?"

"Don't you know the whole story why he didn't?" Secretary Min prodded, raising an eyebrow.

"Nah," Youn-Jae responded dismissively, his tone flat and uninterested.

"Since it seems the Chairman didn't fill you in," Secretary Min said with a sympathetic smile, "I'd suggest just going along with what your Hyung and the Chairman want. It's better not to cause any trouble."

Youn-Jae let out a deep, resigned sigh, his shoulders slumping slightly. "Is that so?" he replied, clearly uninterested and weary.

The plane touched down smoothly, and the passengers stirred as the attendants began their final preparations. As they disembarked, the hum of the airport greeted them once more.

As Youn-Jae and Secretary Min walk through the jet bridge, the hum of the airport fills the air. Youn-Jae's expression is a mix of anticipation and slight fatigue from the long flight.

They proceed through the bustling arrival terminal, navigating their way past other travelers and signs directing them to passport control. Youn-Jae, focused and slightly distracted, scans the area for the necessary protocols.

Tobi stood eagerly in the arrivals hall, her sharp eyes scanning the crowd. Her vibrant blonde hair swayed slightly as she shifted from foot to foot, barely containing her excitement. The moment she spotted Youn-Jae and Secretary Min, her face lit up with a broad smile.

"Youn-Jae! Over here!" she called, her voice bright and full of energy as she waved enthusiastically.

Tobi, a long-time friend of Youn-Jae for almost ten years, is a striking presence with her flowing blonde hair and model-like figure. Her impeccable fashion sense reflects her unique blend of American and Korean heritage. Although her mother, a Korean, passed away before Tobi graduated from high school, Tobi has grown up under the care of her father, Anderson West, a business tycoon with ventures in both the USA and Korea. Her father's success has made her the only child of privilege, and they share a close business partnership with the Han family.

Despite her privileged upbringing, Tobi is known for her stubbornness and boundless energy. She has always been accustomed to getting what she wants, often pursuing her desires with a fierce determination. Yet, beneath her assertive exterior, She has a kind heart and a naturally easygoing demeanor.

Youn-Jae's expression softened, a warm smile tugging at his lips as he waved back. "Tobi! Good to see you."

Tobi wasted no time, striding toward them confidently and throwing her arms around Youn-Jae in a warm embrace. She stepped back and greeted Secretary Min with a polite nod, "Welcome to New York, Youn-Jae. And Secretary Min."

As they made their way through the airport, Youn-Jae glanced around curiously. "Where's Kyle?"

Tobi rolled her eyes, huffing playfully. "Oh, that awful man is always buried in his work. He said he'll make it up to us later."

Youn-Jae chuckled, shaking his head. "He better treat us to drinks then."

"Don't worry, I'll hold him to that," Tobi replied with a mischievous grin.

At the exit, a sleek black car is already waiting for them. Tobi, with a playful twinkle in her eye, turns to Youn-Jae and says, "I'll follow behind in my own car."

Youn-Jae, with a casual shrug and a mischievous grin, replies, "No, I'll drive your car. Let's head to the parking lot."

Secretary Min, who's been observing, interjects, "President, should we check in with the Chairman first?"

Youn-Jae shakes his head with a teasing smile. "You go ahead. Tobi and I are planning to hit up somewhere fun." He then adds with a wink, "Besides, Father won't mind. It's Tobi I'm with."

Secretary Min sighs but nods, "Alright then. I'll head to the Chairman. If you need anything, just call me. I'm staying at the hotel."

Youn-Jae raises an eyebrow in curiosity. "Are you not staying with me at Hyung's place?"

Secretary Min smirks, "I reserved a room at the hotel, just in case you and your brother start throwing tantrums at each other again." He teases, a hint of amusement in his voice.

Youn-Jae chuckled, waving him off. "Got it! See you later!" As he and Tobi headed toward the parking lot, Youn-Jae casually draped his arm over her shoulder. Tobi, arms crossed, shot him a playful grin, and the two continued to tease each other, their banter filled with ease and laughter.

Once inside Tobi's car, with Youn-Jae behind the wheel, Tobi shot him a sidelong glance, her expression playful. "Alright, I just texted Kyle to meet us at the bar. Aren't you tired?"

Youn-Jae, his eyes on the road, gripped the wheel with one hand while resting his other casually on the window frame. "Just escaping the early drama."

Tobi shrugged, fiddling with her nails. "What do you think about their idea? Do we really have a choice?"

Youn-Jae smirked, shrugging nonchalantly. "Choices? Not sure about that."

Tobi, undeterred, declared with a determined grin, "Well, if it's happening, I want a grand beach wedding."

"Do as you please," Youn-Jae replied with a playful wink.

They both burst into laughter, their easy camaraderie making even the weight of their futures feel like little more than a passing joke.

***

Youn-Jae and Tobi sat casually at a high bar table near the bartender, their drinks in hand—Tobi with a tequila, Youn-Jae with a whisky. The bar buzzed with lively chatter, contrasting with the impatience simmering in Tobi's expression. She drummed her fingers against the table, her gaze flicking to her phone to check the time.

"Where the hell is Kyle?" she muttered, her frustration cutting through the background noise.

Youn-Jae leaned back in his chair, swirling the amber liquid in his glass before taking a leisurely sip, his posture relaxed. "Why the rush?" he asked, his voice calm, almost teasing. "Just enjoy the drink."

Tobi, unable to relax, scanned the crowded room, her eyes narrowing when she spotted a familiar figure by the entrance. Her brows furrowed as she pointed. "Isn't that Kyle?"

Youn-Jae turned slightly in his seat, his casual demeanor shifting to alert curiosity as he focused on the scene near the door. "What's he doing?" he murmured, his eyes narrowing in concern.

By the entrance, Kyle appeared to be arguing with a drunk patron. The altercation escalated when the drunk stumbled into Kyle, spilling his drink all over Kyle's shirt. Kyle's irritation was evident as he leaned in toward the man. "Hey! Kids shouldn't be here," he said, his tone sharp yet controlled.

Before the situation could spiral further, a tall figure stepped in, placing a steady hand on the drunk's shoulder. "Sorry about him," the man said calmly, steering the drunk back toward their table. "James, you're wasted. Sit down."

Kyle, still visibly irritated, muttered under his breath as he approached Youn-Jae and Tobi, "I guess age doesn't matter as long as you're rich. You can walk into any bar." He wiped at his shirt in vain, frustration etched in the furrow of his brow. The whiskey stain spread across his crisp white shirt like a badge of unwanted attention.

Tobi, always quick to pick up on things, raised a perfectly arched eyebrow. Her curiosity mixed with mild concern, she leaned in slightly, eyeing the damp spot. "What the hell happened to you, Kyle?" she asked, her voice hovering between amusement and genuine surprise.

Kyle ran a hand through his hair, letting out a frustrated sigh. "Argh, look at my shirt," he groaned, tugging at the fabric to emphasize the dark stain.

Youn-Jae, who had been swirling his whiskey lazily, smirked as he glanced at Kyle. "Hey, relax," he teased, his voice low and easy. "Aren't you forgetting something? Your friend over here," he gestured to himself, his smirk deepening.

Kyle's scowl softened when he realized who was sitting in front of him. His eyes brightened, and the frustration melted away, replaced with genuine warmth. "Youn!" he exclaimed, his mood lifting as a grin tugged at the corners of his lips. "Welcome back, man."

Tobi leaned forward, a playful glint in her eyes, handing him a tissue with a teasing smile. "Your shirt's wet," she pointed out, her tone light and almost sing-song. "Who the hell bumped into you?" Tobi asked, catching only a glimpse of Kyle's figure from where he collided with someone. The view was partially obscured by a cabinet displaying wines and alcohol, blocking a clear line of sight.

Kyle's eyes flickered toward the table where the raucous group sat, the noise still spilling into their part of the bar. "Over there," he muttered, nodding in the direction of the crowd.

Tobi followed his gaze, her lips curling into a mischievous smile. "Ooh, what a sight," she said quietly, tilting her head slightly as if trying to get a better look. "That tall one—Andrew. Bit of a mystery, that guy. No one really knows much about his personal life except that he's always hanging around with that drunk mess, James. There's a rumor they're together, but nothing's been confirmed. Though, seeing them here at a gay bar... well, what else can we expect, right?

Kyle's brows shot up in surprise. "You know them that well?"

Tobi shrugged with a knowing grin. "Of course," she replied, her voice smooth with confidence. "They're famous in the bar scene, especially Andrew and James. They've got that 'troublemaker' vibe down to an art."

Youn-Jae chuckled, leaning back in his chair as he cast a glance toward the group. "They seem young. Let it go. It's not worth the headlines if we start trouble with the younger crowd," he added with a wry smile.

Tobi nodded in agreement, her grin widening. "Yeah, plus, they're more trouble than you two combined," she teased, shooting a pointed look at Kyle.

Kyle let out a resigned sigh, a half-smile playing on his lips as he accepted the tissue from Tobi. "Alright, alright," he muttered, dabbing at his shirt. He glanced at Tobi, raising an eyebrow with a playful spark in his eyes. "I don't go around starting trouble. Unlike some people I know," he quipped, his tone light but laced with an old, familiar jab.

Tobi chuckled, nudging him gently with her elbow. "Yeah, yeah," she teased, her eyes gleaming with humor

As they bantered, the noise from Andrew and James's table grew louder, their laughter cutting through the bar's atmosphere like a knife. Youn-Jae, his patience visibly thinning, abruptly stood from his seat, his face a mask of disinterest and irritation. Kyle flinched slightly at the sudden movement, his eyes following Youn-Jae with a flicker of concern, while Tobi remained unfazed, lazily swirling her tequila and resting her chin on her hand as if she was watching a mildly interesting scene unfold.

"Let's go to another bar," Youn-Jae said coolly, his voice devoid of any emotion as he grabbed his jacket. "It's too loud here."

Tobi sighed, her playful demeanor fading just a bit as she pushed herself off her stool. "Such a killjoy," she muttered, a flicker of disappointment crossing her face as she reluctantly stood up.

Kyle followed, still dabbing at his shirt as he threw one last confused glance at Youn-Jae. They made their way past Andrew and James's table, the noise growing louder as they approached.

Suddenly, Youn-Jae and Andrew's eyes met—locking in a moment of electric tension. Their gazes were sharp, unyielding, each silently challenging the other. It was a silent battle of wills, their mutual dislike simmering beneath the surface, unspoken yet painfully clear. Neither broke eye contact as if communicating something beyond words, the air thick with an unspoken tension that hung between them, heavy and charged.

The story doesn't end here...