Chapter 4 – The Right Decision and the Unexpected Arrival

Hannam-dong, Seoul – Han Family Residence – 7:30 AM

Han Yuri was already awake but still lying in bed, tablet in hand. She was scrolling through articles about the Lee family.

Most of them praised the Lees: charity work, flawless public appearances, cultural projects… A parade of perfection. Then, one article caught her attention. It mentioned an accident involving the Lee family.

Intrigued, she was about to click on it when her phone vibrated.

She flinched slightly, set the tablet aside, and reached for her phone on the nightstand. On the screen appeared: "Master Jung."

She picked up immediately.

Han Yuri –

"Hello, Master Jung? Why are you calling so early?"

Master Jung –

"Good morning, Miss Han. Sorry to bother you at this hour, but as I mentioned, I'd like to see you before the press conference to go over a few details. Are you available today?"

Yuri hesitated for a moment, glancing at the time.

Han Yuri –

"Ah… yes, I have an appointment today. What time exactly?"

Master Jung –

"I have another trial in a few minutes. Can we meet around 10 AM?"

Han Yuri –

"Alright. Send me the address where I should meet you."

Yuri ended the call and placed her phone back on the nightstand.

Just a few seconds later, the screen lit up again: a message had arrived.

It was from Master Jung, sharing the address for their meeting.

Yuri set her phone down again and slowly got up, heading toward the bathroom.

9:20 AM – Before the appointment

Han Yuri was ready to head out.

She wore a chic light gray tweed outfit, consisting of a fitted three-quarter sleeve top, buttoned down the front, subtly showing off her slim waist.

Her high-waisted skirt, slit in the front, flattered her figure with understated elegance.

A small cream shoulder bag, delicate earrings, and matching heels completed her look.

She walked down the stairs gently, her heels echoing softly on the steps.

Downstairs, she saw her father and stepmother sitting at the table, having breakfast.

Seeing her, her stepmother stood up almost immediately, a polite smile on her face.

Stepmother –

"Yuri, ah! Would you like something to eat?"

Han Yuri remained a bit distant, not really stopping.

Han Yuri –

"No, I have an appointment in a few minutes."

She calmly walked toward the door, but suddenly her father's voice stopped her.

Yuri's Father –

"I heard you're going to see Lee Tae Joon."

Han Yuri –

"Yes."

Her father gave a slight smile, visibly satisfied.

Yuri's Father –

"Alright. That's good."

Yuri didn't respond, simply nodding.

She finally made her way to the entrance. The chauffeur, already waiting, stepped out to open the car door for her. She got in without a word.

As soon as she was seated, her phone started ringing. On the screen: Kim Min Hee.

Yuri picked up right away.

Kim Min Hee –

"The lawyer sent me a copy of what you're going to say at the press conference. Do you want to meet today to go over it together?"

Han Yuri –

"I can't… Actually, the lawyer called me. He wants to see me."

A brief silence. Min Hee seemed a little disappointed.

Kim Min Hee –

"Oh, really… Alright then."

Yuri ended the call without adding anything. She briefly looked out the window, thoughtful.

A few minutes later — exactly 10 AM.

The car stopped in front of a sleek yet elegant building in the heart of Gangnam.

The chauffeur quickly got out and opened the door for her.

Yuri stepped out of the car gracefully, adjusted her skirt slightly, then looked up at the building:

Jung & Associates Law Firm.

She took a deep breath, ready to face whatever awaited her.

Yuri pushed open the front door of the firm. As soon as she entered, all eyes turned toward her.

Her stride was calm, confident. But in the air, there was an invisible tension, a rumor lingering.

Man –

"Wow… Is that really Han Yuri? She's so beautiful… But what is she doing here?"

A woman with a coffee cup in hand approached, lowering her voice slightly but clearly curious.

Woman –

"Maybe it's about her case. You haven't heard? She's accused of murder."

Man –

"Really? I've had so much work lately I haven't even had time to go online…

But you know what? I bet it's just haters trying to bring Han Yuri down.

Besides being a well-known actress, she's also from the Han family. Lots of people would love to see them fall."

Woman –

"You're right… but still, something feels off.

Why would someone share something that serious… just because they don't like Han Yuri?"

Man –

"You think so? But it's nothing new.

There are tons of haters who post awful things about celebrities just because they're more famous than their own idol or favorite actor… or just because they dislike them."

The woman was about to respond, probably to launch into another theory, when a man in a suit approached them from behind, arms crossed.

Man –

"And maybe try working, instead of guessing about cases that aren't your business? Are you police officers now?"

The woman and the man jumped slightly, caught in the act. They immediately bowed, visibly embarrassed.

Woman and Man –

"Good morning, sir."

The two employees quickly rushed back to their desks, heads down, trying to disappear.

Meanwhile, Han Yuri was already seated in the lawyer's office, where she had been led a little earlier by his assistant.

The space was simple, elegant, with large bookshelves filled with neatly arranged files.

She waited calmly, legs crossed, casually glancing at the framed diplomas on the wall.

A few minutes later, the door opened.

Master Jung entered with quick steps and immediately closed the door behind him.

Master Jung –

"Sorry I'm late… The trial took longer than expected."

Han Yuri didn't respond right away. She simply looked at him calmly, almost neutrally, as if she were evaluating her thoughts before speaking.

Without reacting to her silence, Master Jung went to sit across from her. He tapped briefly on his intercom.

Master Jung –

"Please bring us two cups of coffee."

Just a few minutes later, the door quietly opened.

The secretary entered, carefully placed the two cups on the table, then left without a word, gently closing the door behind her.

Master Jung –

"Alright, Miss Han. As I mentioned, I need to check a few details with you. Don't worry, I'll do everything I can to help you.

But you need to know one thing: this is a murder case. The police may summon you."

Han Yuri –

"Summon me? Why?"

Master Jung –

"Because there's a date on the photo. The police will want to know what you were doing that day. So tell me now, so I can help you.

Where exactly were you on April 4, 2012?"

Han Yuri –

"That was 13 years ago… How do you expect me to remember?"

Master Jung –

"Think, miss. The police will ask you the same question. Try to recall. Where were you that day? Don't lie to me. I'm the only one who can defend you."

Han Yuri –

"I was at a party. My friend was celebrating her 17th birthday."

Master Jung –

"You're 30 today… so you were underage at the time.

Did you drink that night? Did your father know you weren't home?"

Han Yuri –

"No, he didn't know. And yes, we drank a bit… That's normal, isn't it?

But why are you asking me all these questions? You're a lawyer, not a cop. You're supposed to protect me."

Master Jung –

"Exactly. I'm protecting you by asking the right questions.

Did you sleep at your friend's place that night? She could testify."

Han Yuri –

"No. Well… I don't think so.

As I told you, we all drank, we fell asleep wherever. I left very early in the morning to pack my suitcase… I'd been offered a commercial abroad.

I don't think she remembers whether I stayed or not."

Master Jung –

"What time did you come home?"

Han Yuri –

"I don't know… around five in the morning.

You can ask our housekeeper. She saw me come in.

… Now tell me, Master… what am I risking?"

Master Jung –

"For now, we'll look for evidence to prove your innocence.

And don't worry: I've never lost a case.

One last question: are you sure you've told me everything? You haven't forgotten anything?"

(Han Yuri hesitates slightly)

– No.

She stood up, grabbed her bag without meeting his eyes.

Han Yuri –

"I'm sorry, Master, but if you're done, I have to go."

Master Jung stood up as well.

Master Jung –

"Very well, Miss Han.

I already sent a copy of what you should say at the press conference to Miss Kim Min Hee. If you have any questions or adjustments, don't hesitate to call me."

Han Yuri –

"Alright. I'll be going now."

She walked away without looking back.

Master Jung watched her leave the room, his expression serious.

As if he didn't fully believe her story.

A few minutes later, Han Yuri arrived in front of the car.

Her chauffeur was waiting and respectfully opened the door for her.

Seated in the back, she briefly closed her eyes and let out a soft sigh.

Chauffeur (from the front) –

"Miss, where to now?"

Han Yuri straightened slightly and glanced at her watch. It was noon.

Han Yuri –

"I was supposed to meet Lee Tae Joon… but first, we're going to visit someone."

The chauffeur nodded and started the engine.

Chauffeur –

"Alright, Miss."

Han Yuri gently closed her eyes again, visibly exhausted.

3:30 PM –

After meeting with the person she had planned to see, back in the car, Han Yuri took out her phone and sent a message to Lee Tae Joon.

Han Yuri (text message):

– Where are you?

A few seconds later, a reply popped up.

Lee Tae Joon (text message):

– Wait, I'm sending you my location.

A notification appeared. She clicked it.

Han Yuri (to the driver):

– Let's go.

The engine started again.

4:20 PM – The car stopped in front of a large staircase.

Han Yuri got out, looked around with a hint of hesitation.

Han Yuri –

– Are you sure this is the place?

Driver –

– Yes, Miss. There's a lovely restaurant at the top, on the terrace.

Han Yuri –

– Alright. Wait here.

She walked away, poised and determined, then began climbing the grand staircase, step by step, unhurried.

The wind gently played with her hair as she ascended, a soft sigh in her eyes.

She finally reached the terrace. It was a beautiful place, bathed in natural light.

Colorful flowers lined the space, and the atmosphere felt straight out of a romantic drama.

Several tables were set with care… but all of them were empty.

All but one.

At that table, perfectly set, Lee Tae Joon was sitting alone, looking calm—almost too calm.

He was staring into the distance, as if lost in deep thought… or as if he had been waiting for a long time.

Han Yuri approached slowly, her heels clicking softly against the floor.

Lee Tae Joon turned around slowly, as if sensing her presence.

His gaze met Han Yuri's.

She gave a faint smile.

Han Yuri (thoughts):

– This is the right decision… If I do nothing, all my efforts will have been for nothing.

She finally reached him.

Han Yuri –

– Why is there no one here?

Lee Tae Joon –

– You told me you're an actress, didn't you? Don't you find this more convenient? No reporters, no people watching you or taking pictures.

Han Yuri –

– You're right… This is better.

She sat down gracefully.

Han Yuri –

– You know, I've gotten used to being photographed without knowing it. That's just how it is… I chose this path, I don't have the right to complain.

So I had to learn how to be photogenic.

Lee Tae Joon –

– People really learn that kind of thing? Good to know.

(He smiles slightly)

But… where's my pizza?

Han Yuri –

– What?

Lee Tae Joon –

– You told me we'd have a pizza night, remember?

Han Yuri –

– Oh right, hang on, I'll order one.

Lee Tae Joon –

– No need. I already ordered something. Actually… I cooked one of them myself.

(He looks at her, teasingly)

But you have to promise that next time, you'll bring me a pizza.

Han Yuri –

– Alright, next time I'll bring a pizza.

Two waitresses approached with the dishes, set them down, and quietly left.

Lee Tae Joon –

– Actually, I looked you up online… Is it true that you're famous?

Han Yuri –

– Of course! You don't believe me? I'm Han Yuri, the goddess of Hallyu.

Lee Tae Joon –

– No, I meant… famous for your bad temper.

I saw an article saying you refused a photo with a fan and mistreated your staff.

Han Yuri –

– Ah… Did you also see that famous photo where I supposedly slapped a fan?

Lee Tae Joon –

– Of course! Nice picture, by the way. You really are photogenic.

Han Yuri smiled faintly.

– You know, being famous isn't easy. People post things about you that even you didn't know. They judge you without knowing you.

I got used to it… but sometimes I don't understand why so many people believe all these lies without checking the facts.

Lee Tae Joon –

– Because people care more about lies than the truth.

They find it more exciting.

Han Yuri –

– Ah, I bet you saw my latest scandal too?

Lee Tae Joon –

– Yeah, I saw it.

Han Yuri –

– Aren't you going to ask me if it's true?

Lee Tae Joon –

– Should I?

Han Yuri –

– I bet you have tons of questions.

Lee Tae Joon –

– Of course. But I don't want to push you to talk if you're not ready.

And I don't like digging into people's personal lives.

Han Yuri –

– You're not curious? Reporters would kill for an answer.

Lee Tae Joon –

– Okay… I'm curious about just one thing.

Han Yuri –

– What is it?

Lee Tae Joon –

– Is it true you did striptease when you were younger?

Han Yuri –

– What?! You're insane!

Lee Tae Joon –

– Could be… So it's true?

Han Yuri –

– Let's change the subject.

Lee Tae Joon –

– You asked if I was curious, and now you want to change the subject?

Han Yuri –

– I told you I wouldn't answer.

Lee Tae Joon –

– Alright… Either way, I'll find out one day… when we're married.

Han Yuri –

– Married? You and me?

Lee Tae Joon –

– Yes. You invited me for pizza, remember?

Han Yuri –

– Oh right, I remember… but you'll never know.

Lee Tae Joon –

– Why not?

Han Yuri –

– Just because.

But I can't introduce you to Lee Min Ho. We're not close.

Lee Tae Joon –

– Too bad… I wanted to ask him his secret for staying so good-looking.

Han Yuri –

– Anyway, this dish is delicious!

Lee Tae Joon –

– I know. I cooked it myself.

Han Yuri –

– Really?

Lee Tae Joon –

– No… But I did make the sauce.

A few minutes later…

Han Yuri –

– Ah, I have to go. I still have a ton of things to take care of.

Lee Tae Joon –

– Of course. If you need a lawyer, I can help.

Han Yuri –

– Thank you very much.

Lee Tae Joon –

– Oh, and about the marriage—it's a yes.

Han Yuri –

– Yes, well… I'm leaving.

She walked away.

One hour later, Han Yuri arrived home.

She headed straight to her father's office, where he was waiting.

Han Yuri –

– I'm back, father.

Yuri's Father –

– I talked to someone who can take care of your case… discreetly.

Han Yuri –

– Really? Are you sure?

Yuri's Father –

– Trust me. Just announce your engagement so we can handle the situation quietly.

To start, we'll release this photo of you and Lee Tae Joon during your date.

Han Yuri –

– Alright.

The next day – 8:30 AM.

Han Yuri was about to head out. She was wearing a long, elegant, yet casual black dress, paired with sleek heels and a matching small handbag. Her hair, worn down in a perfectly tousled yet styled look, gave her an effortlessly natural and sophisticated appearance.

But just as she was about to leave the house, she stopped dead in her tracks upon spotting a suitcase in the middle of the living room. Intrigued, she stepped closer—when a familiar voice echoed behind her.

?? –

– Long time no see, unnie.

She turned around abruptly. A young woman stood there, dressed with flawless elegance: a fitted, black fine-knit top, buttoned up and snug, a short skirt with golden buttons, sheer tights, bold black boots, and a gold chain around her waist. Her quilted black handbag hung casually from her arm. Her perfectly straightened hair cascaded like a waterfall over her shoulders.

Han Yuri –

– Ye Reum?! When did you get back?

Han Ye Reum –

– What's this? You're not happy to see me ?

To be continued…