Han Yuri froze, her lips pressed against Lee Tae Joon's. Her heart skipped a beat. It took her a few seconds to register the closeness… too close. Tae Joon, equally stunned, didn't move at first.
A thick silence filled the room, broken only by the ticking clock and Yuri's shallow breath. Then, as reality hit her, she jumped back.
Han Yuri (panicked)
— Wh-What?!
Her face turned bright red.
Tae Joon straightened up slowly, a teasing smirk on his lips.
Lee Tae Joon (amused)
— If you wanted to kiss me, you could've just said so. No need to fall on top of me.
She shot him a deadly glare, red with embarrassment.
Han Yuri (annoyed)
— You… you're insufferable.
She jumped to her feet, arms crossed, heart pounding. Tae Joon stood up too, running a hand through his hair, playing the innocent.
Han Yuri (awkward)
— That was an accident. Just a stupid accident. So don't get any ideas.
Lee Tae Joon (teasing)
— Hm… if you say so.
She glared at him and turned on her heel.
Han Yuri (raising her voice)
— I'm serious. It was an accident!
Lee Tae Joon (calmly)
— Alright, I get it.
She slammed the bedroom door. Leaning against it, she clutched her wildly beating heart.
Han Yuri (thinking)
— What's wrong with me? Why am I reacting like this?!
In the living room, Tae Joon remained standing, staring into space. Slowly, he brought a finger to his lips, thinking about the accidental kiss.
Lee Tae Joon
— Interesting… he murmured with a faint smirk.
He grabbed a cushion and settled on the couch, looking almost too relaxed.
THE NEXT MORNING – HAN YURI & LEE TAE JOON'S HOUSE – 8:30 AM
Han Yuri was already up. She had showered and dressed with care. A sleek black jumpsuit hugged her curves, baring her shoulders gracefully. She wore matching stilettos and carried a chic little handbag. Moving like a shadow, she quietly opened the bedroom door and tiptoed into the living room…
On the couch, Lee Tae Joon was still lying down, arms folded behind his head, a pillow under his neck.
Lee Tae Joon (half-asleep, eyes closed)
— If you're trying to sneak out… fail.
Han Yuri jumped slightly, turned around, then lifted her chin, feigning haughty innocence.
Han Yuri
— Sneak out? Me? Why would I do that?
He slowly opened his eyes and sat up, his hair slightly messy. A sly smile crept onto his lips.
Lee Tae Joon
— I don't know… Maybe because of what happened yesterday?
A faint smile played on Han Yuri's lips. She ran a hand through her hair, subtly flaunting her poise.
Han Yuri (confident)
— What? I'm an actress. Why would I be embarrassed about something so trivial? I've kissed several men on camera, you know… You probably haven't seen my dramas. I'm the queen of kiss scenes—bed scenes too, actually.
Lee Tae Joon (raising a brow, unimpressed)
— Right… If you say so.
No need to tell me about your "man experience" though.
He stood up completely and looked her over, noting her polished look.
Lee Tae Joon
— All dressed up already, and it's barely 8:30. Where are you going, dressed like that?
Han Yuri (cold, evasive)
— That's none of your business.
Lee Tae Joon (still calm)
— You don't have that many options: either your parents' or your agency. Either way, I'll drive you.
Han Yuri (dryly)
— Forget it. You'll probably kidnap me again.
Lee Tae Joon (hands up, playfully innocent)
— I promise, no detours this time. Do you trust me?
Han Yuri (sarcastic, arms crossed)
— That's a tricky question, considering what you did yesterday. Taking me somewhere with no signal, against my will—seriously?
Lee Tae Joon (amused)
— Come on… Why would I lie to you?
Han Yuri (sharp gaze)
— You already lied twice. In one day.
A beat of silence. He raises an eyebrow, intrigued.
Lee Tae Joon
— So tell me. Where are you really going, all dressed up?
She hesitated, clearly uneasy, then averted her gaze.
Han Yuri
— I… have a meeting with some friends.
Lee Tae Joon (serious tone)
— Do you really think now's the right time? After everything that happened…
Han Yuri (smirking, confident)
— Actually, it's the perfect time to show I'm not affected. If I hide, people will think I'm scared or guilty. I don't want them thinking this scandal shook me.
I'm Han Yuri. A little scandal isn't enough to break me.
He was about to reply when his phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen, frowned slightly, and picked up.
Lee Tae Joon
— What is it? Why are you calling me this early?
His face grew tense for a second. He listened silently, then replied calmly:
Lee Tae Joon
— Got it. I'm coming.
He hung up and turned back to her.
Lee Tae Joon
— Sorry. I won't be able to drive you. Something important came up.
Han Yuri (detached)
— That's fine. Kim Min Hee is picking me up anyway.
IN FRONT OF HAN YURI'S HOUSE – A FEW MINUTES LATER
Min Hee stepped out of her car, looking adorable in a pastel suit, a big cheerful smile stuck to her face.
Han Yuri
– Why are you getting out?
Kim Min Hee
– Are you kidding? I at least want to say hi to your husband.
Han Yuri
– Min Hee, next time. We're in a rush.
Kim Min Hee
– You just don't want me to see your house, huh?
Han Yuri
– That's not it… Fine, okay. Come on Saturday.
Min Hee flashed a victorious grin.
Kim Min Hee
– Promise? Perfect. Let's go then.
IN FRONT OF A FANCY RESTAURANT – AN HOUR LATER
Yuri stepped out of the car. Instantly, fans rushed over to snap pictures.
Fan 1
– Unnie, you look stunning!
Fan 2
– Can I get an autograph, please?
Yuri stopped, smiled, and gently signed.
Fan 3
– You've lost weight… Please take care of yourself, okay?
Fan 4
– Isn't Lee Tae Joon oppa with you today?
Han Yuri
– He had a full schedule. He couldn't make it.
Kim Min Hee
– Yuri-ya, we have to go.
Yuri quickly waved to the fans and entered the restaurant with Min Hee. Inside, several women were already waiting, all dressed to the nines in luxurious, well-coordinated outfits.
Friend 1
– Yuri, over here!
Han Yuri
– Sorry to keep you waiting.
Friend 2 (glancing around)
– No worries. But… there's no chair for your assistant.
Min Hee gave a polite smile, a bit awkward.
Kim Min Hee
– It's fine, I can wait somewhere else.
Han Yuri
– No. Please bring another chair. Today, she's here as a friend, not an assistant.
A server quickly complied. Once everyone was seated, the conversation picked up again.
Friend 3
– So, Yuri, how's married life? Is Lee Tae Joon treating you well?
Yuri smiled gently, her voice soft, almost dreamy.
Han Yuri
– He's kind, takes care of me… and most importantly, he understands me.
Friend 2
– But it was an arranged marriage, right?
Yuri lifted her chin slightly, her smile now carrying a note of confidence.
Han Yuri
– Yes, arranged by our fathers. But sometimes, arranged marriages last longer than those built on fleeting passion, don't they?
Friend 1
– Wow, a perfect husband. I wish my dad would set me up with someone too.
Friend 2
– Okay, new topic. I heard you had a fight with Kim Yoora. But there's no article about it anywhere…
Han Yuri
– That's because it wasn't anything serious.
Friend 1
– You're right. If it was serious, the media would've exploded already. Anyway, let's change the subject.
MEANWHILE, AT LEE JAE HYUN'S PLACE
Han Ye Reum was already up. She swept the house calmly, focused, as if the repetitive motion helped her organize her thoughts. Passing by a cabinet, she paused in front of some books. She picked one up, flipped through a few pages, then put it back with curiosity.
Just then, Lee Jae Hyun stepped out of his room, slightly tousled, still wrapped in morning quiet. His gaze landed on Ye Reum, then drifted for a moment.
A memory quietly surfaced…
Han Yuri.
She had done the exact same thing. In the same room. Same gesture. Same gentleness.
She turned to Jae Hyun with a small smile at the corner of her lips.
Han Yuri
– Oppa, can I borrow this book? It looks fun.
Lee Jae Hyun
– It has a lot of chapters. I doubt you can finish it with your schedule.
Han Yuri (teasing)
– I can do it. Maybe not in a week, but I can take my time.
She had looked down at the book in her hands, a faint smile appearing on her lips. Jae Hyun had watched her silently, fascinated by that simple peace.
Back to the present. He stood frozen in the doorway, staring at Ye Reum. As if reliving that memory through her.
Then Ye Reum suddenly turned, catching him off guard.
Han Ye Reum
– How long have you been standing there?
Lee Jae Hyun (snapping back to reality)
– Just now.
He walked over slowly, looking intrigued.
Lee Jae Hyun
– You like reading?
Han Ye Reum (with a slight pout)
– Not really… I always fall asleep after a few lines.
Lee Jae Hyun
– Really? I'm not a bookworm either… but I like to read now and then. Just to kill time.
He shrugged lightly, as if it was no big deal. His tone stayed calm, but his eyes were still distant, clinging to memories he didn't voice.
Han Ye Reum
– Why not go out and party instead?
He didn't answer right away. His gaze lingered on her, almost surprised by the carefree question. But instead of smiling or joking, silence settled.
Han Ye Reum
– Oh right… I forgot you're a celebrity.
She let out a small bitter laugh, then added a bit softer:
– Honestly, being famous must be exhausting. Even I can't go out much because of my family's reputation… so I get it.
She gave him a playful smile.
Han Ye Reum
– You know what? To thank you for letting me stay over last night… I'll take you somewhere cool.
Lee Jae Hyun shook his head gently, a polite smile on his lips.
Lee Jae Hyun
– No need to thank me. Your sister is a friend of mine. I wasn't going to leave you outside.
But he added, a bit apologetic:
– I'll have to pass on your offer. I'm busy… and I can't exactly go somewhere I might get recognized.
Ye Reum, unfazed:
Han Ye Reum
– Don't worry, no one will take pictures of you. It's a chill place where everyone minds their own business. No spotlights, no paparazzi.
She threw him a daring smile.
Han Ye Reum
– So… are you coming?
...Silence.
A few moments later, in the hallway, Han Ye Reum stood in front of Lee Jae Hyun's door, her stuff in her arms. Her expression showed a hint of disappointment.
She muttered, annoyed:
Han Ye Reum
– He's so boring… Didn't budge at all.
She turned on her heel, eyebrows slightly furrowed.
Han Ye Reum
– Honestly, not surprised Yuri never caught feelings for him, even after all these years.
She rolled her eyes as she walked toward the elevator.
Han Ye Reum
– Who'd fall for a guy that stiff…
As she approached the metallic doors, she glanced up with exasperation and mimicked his voice mockingly:
Han Ye Reum
– "I'm sorry…"
Then, with a slightly louder, almost theatrical tone:
Han Ye Reum
– Seriously… does he think we're in some kind of royal drama?
She stepped into the elevator and pressed the button. The doors began to slowly close.
Han Ye Reum (muttering, a smirk playing on her lips)
– Seriously… how did I end up sleeping with him?
I must've been totally wasted.
MEANWHILE – 10:00 A.M.
EMPIRE GROUP
Lee Tae Joon stepped out of his black car with practiced nonchalance in front of the Empire Group's towering headquarters—an imposing skyscraper with a sleek, luxurious design. His flawless appearance drew glances, though no one dared to look too long. Two bodyguards in dark suits followed closely behind him.
He entered the glass building with a confident stride. The moment he stepped into the lobby, every employee present bowed in greeting.
He didn't respond—just gave a slight nod and continued walking without slowing down.
A few steps later, he entered the private elevator reserved for top executives. When the doors opened again, he stepped into a large conference room—sober in design but undeniably prestigious. The kind of place where billion-dollar decisions were traded silently between cold stares and icy handshakes.
Several men in dark suits were already seated around the long table. His father sat at the center, unflinching, as rigid as a judge. To his right, like a loyal shadow: Lee Tae Min, perfectly at ease, calmly sipping tea.
Only one seat remained empty—just to their father's left.
His seat.
Without a word, Tae Joon walked toward it. Just before sitting down, he stopped in front of his father, gave a brief bow, and took his place, expression unreadable.
Chairman Lee
— What took you so long?
Tae Joon
— It's not like I'm the only one with a car in this country.
A slight tension stirred in the room, but Lee Tae Min immediately leaned toward their father to soothe the atmosphere.
— Father, shall we begin?
Chairman Lee
— Hm.
He scanned the room slowly, his expression as stern as ever. Then, in a deep and steady voice, he began.
Chairman Lee
— I've called you here today because I have an important announcement to make.
The room instantly fell silent.
Chairman Lee
— As you all know, the company is currently going through a rough patch. Nothing new. We've weathered worse, and we'll overcome this too. But the reason I've gathered you all…
(He paused for a long moment.)
…is to inform you that I am officially retiring.
A wave of murmurs rippled through the room. The men looked at each other in surprise. Even Tae Joon, visibly caught off guard, slowly turned to his father.
A man a few seats down from Tae Min straightened.
— What do you mean? You're leaving now, in the middle of a crisis?
Voices started to overlap, questions flying from every direction. The chairman raised a hand—silence returned immediately.
Chairman Lee
— You don't seem to understand. I may be stepping down… but my sons are still here.
He cast a glance at Tae Min, then at Tae Joon.
— I've led this company for more than half my life. We've been through storms, faced trials, but we always pulled through. And I truly believe this company can go even further. But now… my health is forcing me to pass the torch.
Another silence fell across the room.
A direct voice broke it.
Board Member
— But, Mr. Chairman… who will take over? Which of your sons will become the rightful heir to Empire Group? Who will fully assume the responsibility?
Senior Executive (firm tone)
— If you ask me, Lee Tae Min is the most qualified. He's the eldest. He proved himself when he temporarily took over three years ago. He understands the inner workings of this company better than anyone in this room.
The discussion heated up as more opinions were thrown in.
Another Elderly Executive
— I agree. Tae Min knows this business inside and out. He has experience. And most importantly… he's shown he can handle crises.
A third
— And he's well-connected. Investors trust him. He exudes stability.
Several voices joined in
— That's true.
— He's respected—even internationally.
But soon, some began to speak up for Lee Tae Joon.
His calm demeanor. His unique vision. His quiet yet firm leadership during conflicts.
The room buzzed with mounting tension.
Younger Executive
— Tae Joon has proven he can manage complex projects. His strategic mind is razor-sharp. Just because he's the younger son doesn't mean he should be overlooked.
Another
— He also has a much more modern image in the eyes of the public and the media. He's a true leader of the new generation.
The space became a field of restrained chaos. Glances collided. Muted voices nearly spilled into chaos. Tae Min, Tae Joon, and their father watched in composed silence, a sharp contrast to the scene unraveling before them.
Then, with a diplomatic tone, Tae Min raised a hand slightly.
Lee Tae Min
— Gentlemen, I believe the final decision lies with Chairman Lee. After all, he's the founder of Empire Group. But let's not forget—before being a leader, he's a father. And choosing between his two sons… is no easy task.
IN FRONT OF THE COMPANY BUILDING – 1:00 P.M.
Lee Tae Min and Lee Tae Joon stood side by side, both still and composed, in front of their father's black car.
The chairman, weakened but dignified, slowly climbed in with the help of his driver.
Both sons gave a slight bow as the car pulled away, then remained there a few seconds, watching it disappear.
Tae Joon slowly turned toward his brother.
Tae Joon (quietly, without looking at him)
— You knew, didn't you?
Tae Min (turning to him with feigned innocence)
— Knew what?
Tae Joon
— That Father was stepping down. That's why you came back—to claim the company.
Tae Min (calmly, almost indifferent)
— And if that were true… wouldn't that be entirely my right?
(He paused, then continued in a more even tone:)
— But no. That's not why I came back.
Tae Joon (his tone hardening, eyes locked on him)
— Don't treat me like a fool. You know very well that if Father can't make a decision, the board will.
And if there's a vote… you'll most likely win. Am I wrong?
Tae Min
(slight smirk)
— That's very possible.
He looked away slightly, as if to end the conversation…
But then added, almost casually:
Tae Min
— Oh, by the way… how's Yuri-shi?
I wonder how she's doing… after her little fight with Kim Yoora.
Tae Joon (narrowing his eyes)
— How do you know about that? The media hasn't said a word.
Tae Min
— Oh… A friend of mine knows Kim Yoora quite well.
And since she knows Han Yuri is my sister-in-law… she mentioned it.
A heavy silence fell. Their eyes met—clashed.
A car slowly approached. Lee Tae Joon's.
He moved toward it, but his brother stopped him with a single word.
Tae Min
— Wait.
(His tone more serious now.)
If Father chooses you…
Are you really going to take over?
Do you think you can handle it?
Tae Joon slowly stepped closer. The two brothers now stood just centimeters apart.
Neither looked away.
Tae Joon (low voice)
— What exactly are you afraid of?
Tae Min (smiling faintly, almost amused)
— Afraid?
(light sigh)
I'm just… curious to hear your answer.
RESTAURANT HALL — YURI'S SIDE
The girls kept chatting, gossiping about other guests with the energy of expert chatterboxes, when Kim Min Hee came rushing back from the restroom, clearly flustered.
Kim Min Hee (lowering her voice, looking worried)
— I have to go. My neighbor called... There's a problem with my father.
Han Yuri (looking up, concerned)
— Seriously? Then I'll come with you.
Kim Min Hee
— No, no. Stay. You don't need to cut your evening short for this. I'll call someone to take you home.
Han Yuri
— Alright… I'll at least walk you to your car.
Yuri walked her friend outside. On the way back, she stopped by the restroom.
RESTROOM – A FEW MINUTES LATER
A group of girls entered. The sound of heels clicking, muffled laughs. They stood in front of the mirror, pulled out their compacts, and started whispering.
Girl 1
— Hey, by the way... Did you see the video of Han Yuri in her car?
Girl 2
— Of course! Everyone did. She was like... having a total meltdown.
(They laugh.)
Girl 1
— Serves her right. She's always acting like she's above everyone.
Girl 3
— Yeah, she plays the diva... but let's face it, she's done. After all the scandals, people are starting to drop her.
Girl 1
— And why is her husband never around? It's always her assistant picking her up!
Girl 2
— Maybe he's too ashamed to be seen with her. Honestly.
(They laugh again… until someone walks in.)
Girl 1
— Let's go.
(Han Yuri steps out of a stall, giving them an icy glare.)
Han Yuri (cold stare)
— Hypocrites.
BACK IN THE HALL – A FEW MINUTES LATER
Han Yuri returned, flashing a fake smile at the girls.
Girl 2 (fake enthusiasm)
— Yuri! You look stunning tonight.
Han Yuri (polite smile)
— Thank you.
Girl 1
— Is your husband picking you up?
Han Yuri
— No... He's very busy.
(The girls exchanged a knowing glance, a faint smirk. Then suddenly...)
Voice
— Honey.
(Han Yuri turned, startled. Lee Tae Joon was there.)
Han Yuri
— What are you doing here?
Lee Tae Joon (charming smile)
— I came to get you. Oh, and I brought you something. Ta-da.
(He pulled a bouquet of red roses from behind his back.)
Lee Tae Joon
— To make up for not dropping you off this morning. I'm really sorry.
(Han Yuri said nothing.)
Lee Tae Joon
— Come on, forgive me. I promise I'll make it up to you.
(Turning to the others)
Oh, I'm really sorry for the interruption. Good evening, ladies.
Girl 2 (awkward)
— Good evening… Don't worry about it. Actually, you're even more handsome in person. I was abroad, so I couldn't attend the wedding… Congratulations, belatedly.
Lee Tae Joon (courteous smile)
— Thank you. But I'm afraid I have to steal her away. Yuri's been working too much—she needs some rest. And well, I'd like to enjoy a little time with my wife.
Girl 1
— Oh, already? Stay a bit longer…
Lee Tae Joon
— Next time, I promise. Let's go, darling.
(He took Han Yuri's hand. She stood up and smiled for appearances.)
Han Yuri (sweet voice, sharp undertone)
— It was lovely seeing you, girls.
Oh, Somin! I heard about your divorce… I'm really sorry. If you ever want to talk, I'm here…
Even though I wouldn't know what that feels like.
(She smiled tenderly at Lee Tae Joon.)
Han Yuri
— Let's go, honey.
Girl 3
— Somin, you're divorced? Why didn't you tell us?
Somin (forced smile)
— It just happened recently…
PARKING LOT – A FEW MINUTES LATER
Lee Tae Joon and Han Yuri walked to the car. She suddenly stopped, suspicious.
Han Yuri
— What are you doing here...? And how did you find me?
Lee Tae Joon (smiling)
— I planted a GPS in your clothes.
Han Yuri (panicking)
— WHAT?!
(She started frantically searching her coat and pockets.)
Lee Tae Joon (teasing)
— I'm joking. I just saw a picture posted by one of your fans.
Han Yuri
— You're such a… child. Seriously.
(She turned away, irritated. Lee Tae Joon followed her, chuckling softly.)
Lee Tae Joon
— Wait for me, come on.
DARK CORNER – AT THE SAME TIME
Someone was watching them from a distance, hidden in the shadows. They discreetly took a photo and sent it in a message.
Reply from the recipient
Han Yuri is still just as stunning…
Observer
When are you releasing the surveillance video?
Recipient
Patience. Let's play with her a bit longer. Let's see how long she can keep up the act. It's way more entertaining this way, isn't it?
TO BE CONTINUED...