Chapter 69: No More Excuses

Days passed in a blur of meetings, reports, and never-ending work. Both Ji-Ah and Evelyn were caught up in running their respective companies, yet Evelyn never failed to find time for Ji-Ah. She made it a habit to pick her up from the office, sometimes surprising her with lunch, and always making sure they spent at least a little time together each day.

So when Evelyn called Ji-Ah out of the blue one afternoon, Ji-Ah wasn't too surprised—until she heard what Evelyn had to say.

"Take a week off," Evelyn said casually.

Ji-Ah frowned, leaning back in her chair. "What?"

"A week. Off. You work too much, so I'm taking you to Switzerland."

Ji-Ah blinked. "Switzerland?"

"Yes. The perfect season to visit, and I want to go with you." Evelyn's voice was smooth, confident—as if she had already decided.

Ji-Ah sighed. "Evelyn, I can't just leave work for a whole week. I have meetings, reports, deadlines—"

"I knew you'd say that." Evelyn cut her off with a chuckle. "But you can take a break. You're the CEO, Ji-Ah, not a prisoner. Your company won't crumble without you for a few days."

Ji-Ah pressed her lips together. "It's not that simple."

"It is that simple." Evelyn's voice softened slightly. "You need a break. And I want to spend time with you—somewhere without work constantly hanging over our heads."

Ji-Ah hesitated, but she knew Evelyn wouldn't let this go. The woman was stubborn.

"Evelyn—"

"I'm not taking no for an answer." Evelyn sounded completely sure of herself. "The trip is in a week. That gives you plenty of time to prepare. You are coming, Ji-Ah."

Ji-Ah let out a long breath. She could already tell this was a losing battle.

"…Fine," she muttered.

Evelyn's smile was practically audible through the phone. "Good choice."

Ji-Ah shook her head, hiding the small smile tugging at her lips.

The trip was happening.

And no matter how much Ji-Ah tried to prepare herself, she had a feeling Evelyn had a lot more surprises waiting for her.