Ella clutched Ji-hoon's hand as they approached the grand entrance of the illustrious Royal Crown Hotel. The opulent building shimmered in the sunlight, its golden façade and ornate decorations living up to its reputation as a luxurious abode for the rich and famous.
Ji-hoon's brow furrowed, his thoughts filled with anxiety. "I can't believe my sister used the money I gave her to book this place," he muttered, his voice tinged with frustration. "She's only doing this to flaunt her wealth in front of her friends."
Ella gently squeezed his hand, offering a reassuring smile. "Don't let it bother you, Ji-hoon. Today is about celebrating your nephew's special day, and we're here to share in the joy. Let's focus on that."
Ji-hoon nodded, his expression softening as he gazed at Ella. "You're right. I shouldn't let my sister's antics ruin the occasion. Thank you, Ella. I'm lucky to have you by my side."
With a newfound determination, they continued towards the entrance, where Ji-hoon handed the wedding invitations to the vigilant security guard. After a brief inspection, they were granted access and stepped into the breathtaking lobby of the Royal Crown Hotel.
The sight that greeted them was nothing short of spectacular. The sprawling space was adorned with exquisite chandeliers that cast a warm, golden glow across the marble floors. Lush potted plants and elegant floral arrangements added a touch of natural beauty, while the intricate details of the décor spoke volumes about the hotel's opulence.
Ella's eyes widened in awe as she took in the grandeur of the surroundings. "Wow, Ji-hoon, this place is amazing! I've only ever seen it in magazines and on television. It's even more impressive in person!"
Ji-hoon couldn't help but smile at Ella's animated reaction. "I'm glad you like it," he said, his voice tinged with pride. "I may not have chosen to stay here under these circumstances, but I suppose we can appreciate the luxury while we're here."
As they made their way towards the grand staircase that led to the banquet hall, Ella spotted a familiar face among the hotel staff. "Is that Mrs. Park?" she asked, pointing discreetly at a well-dressed woman bustling about with an air of authority.
Ji-hoon followed her gaze and stifled a groan. "Yes, that's my sister's best friend. She's probably overseeing every little detail of the wedding, making sure it's as extravagant as possible."
Ella chuckled softly, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Well, at least we can count on her to provide some entertainment. Let's see how many times she can mention the designer of her dress today."
Ji-hoon chuckled, feeling a glimmer of amusement in the midst of his worries. "I have a feeling it'll be a frequent topic of conversation," he said, shaking his head in disbelief.
Together, they ascended the staircase, anticipation building as they approached the lavish banquet hall where the wedding festivities would soon commence. Despite the tensions swirling around them, Ella and Ji-hoon were determined to make the most of the day and enjoy every moment of the joyous occasion.
As they neared the entrance to the banquet hall, Ji-hoon's eyes lit up as he spotted his friends mingling near the doorway. He turned to Ella with a grin. "Hey, Ella, there are my friends! Let me introduce you to them."
Ella nodded, her curiosity piqued. She had heard plenty about Ji-hoon's friends but had never had the chance to meet them in person. She followed Ji-hoon towards the group, her heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and nervousness.
"Min-woo," Ji-hoon called out with enthusiasm, approaching the tall, distinguished-looking man. "This is Ella, my girlfriend. Ella, this is Yoon Min-woo, the famous movie director."
Min-woo extended his hand, a warm smile spreading across his face. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Ella. Ji-hoon has told me so much about you. Please, call me Min-woo."
Ella shook his hand, feeling a little starstruck. "It's an honor to meet you, Min-woo. I've heard so much about your amazing films."
After exchanging pleasantries, Ji-hoon turns to Sung-min
"Sung-min," Ji-hoon exclaimed, clapping his hands on the shoulder of a stylishly dressed man with an air of confidence. "This is Ella, my girlfriend. Ella, meet Jung Sung-min, the famous club owner."
Sung-min greeted Ella with a charming smile, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "Pleasure to meet you, Ella," he said smoothly. "I've been longing to meet the woman who's captured Ji-hoon's heart. I hope you're prepared for a night of wild dancing at my club someday."
Ella giggled, feeling instantly at ease with Sung-min's playful nature. "I'll definitely take you up on that offer, Sung-min. Looking forward to it!"
Just as the introductions were about to conclude, Ji-hoon's eyes fell on the charismatic figure leaning casually against the wall. "Tae-Hyun," he exclaimed, a hint of a grin appearing on his face. "This is Ella, my girlfriend. Ella, meet Do Tae-Hyun, the charming playboy of our group."
Tae-Hyun straightened up, flashing a devilish smile at Ella. "Charmed, my dear Ella," he said, his voice smooth as silk. "You've certainly got Ji-hoon under your spell. I can see why he couldn't resist falling for you."
Ella blushed at Tae-Hyun's flirtatious remark but couldn't help but chuckle. "Well, it's nice to finally meet the infamous Tae-Hyun. I've been warned about your charms, so I'll try to keep my guard up."
Laughter filled the air as the group exchanged banter and pleasantries. It quickly became evident that they all shared a wonderful rapport, their personalities blending effortlessly.
As they engaged in a hearty conversation, Ella couldn't help but feel grateful for the warmth and acceptance she found among Ji-hoon's friends. Despite the lavish surroundings and the tension in the air, their lighthearted banter reminded her that love, friendship, and laughter could always triumph over any circumstance.
After their delightful conversation with Ji-hoon's friends, the group finally entered the resplendent banquet hall, the air alive with the sounds of laughter and merriment. Ji-hoon scanned the room, searching for his mother among the crowd, his eyes moving past the elegantly adorned tables and the glittering chandeliers.
"Over there," Ji-hoon murmured, nodding in the direction of a small gathering of guests. "My mother is talking to some of the guests. Let's wait till she's finished before we approach her."
Ella nodded, watching Ji-hoon's gaze soften as he observed his mother from a distance. She could sense the deep bond of love and respect he held for her, and it filled her heart with warmth.
While they waited, Ji-hoon turned to Ella, a fond smile appearing on his face. "You know, I have a wonderful memory of my mother when I was a child," he began, his eyes alight with nostalgia. "She used to make the most delicious dumplings, and every weekend, our house would be filled with the tantalizing aroma of her cooking. I remember how she would let me help her, even if all I did was mess up her carefully folded dumplings."
Ella couldn't help but smile at the image Ji-hoon painted with his words. "That sounds like a beautiful memory, Ji-hoon. Your mother's love for you shines through in every detail. It's moments like these that truly shape our lives."
Ji-hoon's smile grew, his eyes reflecting a mixture of love and gratitude. "You're right, Ella. My mother's unwavering love and patience have been a guiding light in my life. She's the pillar of our family, and I hope to be able to repay her kindness and love in every way possible."
As the fond memories lingered in the air, Ji-hoon gestured to his mother, who had finished her conversation with the guests. With a renewed sense of purpose, he led Ella towards her, anticipation bubbling within him.
"Mother," Ji-hoon greeted her with a warm smile, bending down to give her a tender hug. "I'm so glad we could make it for the wedding. It's wonderful to see you."
Miss Kim's eyes lit up with joy as she embraced Ji-hoon, her love for her son evident in the way she held him close. "Ji-hoon, my dear, it warms my heart to have you here. And who is this charming young lady you've brought with you?"
Blushing Ji-hoon replied "Mom, this is my new girl-friend, Ella."
Ella greeted Miss Kim with a respectful bow, her admiration for Ji-hoon's mother shining in her eyes. "It's an honor to meet you, Miss Kim. Ji-hoon has told me so much about you. Your warmth and hospitality are truly touching."
Miss Kim's eyes twinkled with joy as she looked at her son and his girlfriend standing before her. "Ji-hoon, my dear, I can't tell you how happy I am to see you with Ella. You both look absolutely wonderful together," she exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine warmth.
Ella blushed at Miss Kim's kind words, feeling a surge of gratitude for the heartfelt welcome she was receiving from Ji-hoon's mother. "Thank you, Miss Kim. Your words mean a lot to me," she said softly, her cheeks tinged with a rosy hue.
Before anyone could respond, Miss Kim beamed at them and then exclaimed, "I must find Ji-hoon's older sister and share this wonderful news with her! She will be thrilled to hear that her little brother has found such a beautiful and kind-hearted girlfriend!" With that, she darted off into the crowd, her excitement palpable.
As Miss Kim disappeared into the festivities, Ji-hoon's expression clouded with a hint of frustration. "My sister, always trying to make everything about herself," he mumbled, his shoulders tensing.
Ella reached out and gently placed a comforting hand on Ji-hoon's arm. "I understand, Ji-hoon. Family dynamics can be challenging at times, but remember, we're here to celebrate your nephew's wedding. Let's focus on the joy of today and not get caught up in the drama," she said, her voice filled with understanding.
Ji-hoon's eyes softened as he looked at Ella, his heart swelling with fondness. "You're right, Ella. Thank you for always being my rock, especially in moments like these," he murmured, a faint smile tugging at his lips.
As Ella and Ji-hoon wandered through the bustling banquet hall, taking in the lively atmosphere and the delightful array of guests, Ella's eyes widened in alarm as she spotted Mrs. Lee engaged in conversation with a group of rich friends. Without a second thought, she swiftly darted behind a nearby pillar, her heart racing with panic.
Perplexed by Ella's sudden apprehension, Ji-hoon turned to her, his expression a mix of concern and curiosity. "Ella, why are you hiding? What's wrong?" he inquired, his eyes searching hers for an explanation.
Ella pointed discreetly at Mrs. Lee, her voice barely above a whisper. "That woman dressed in pink and white, talking to the group, is my ex-boyfriend's mother," she divulged, her whispered words carrying a tinge of discomfort.
Ji-hoon's eyes widened in shock as he registered Ella's revelation. "Wait, are you sure?" he asked, his voice betraying his disbelief.
Ella nodded, her expression a mix of anxiety and certainty. "Yes, Ji-hoon, I'm sure. I recognize her perfectly," she affirmed, her stomach churning with unease.
Ji-hoon pondered for a moment before a look of realization dawned on his face. "What was your ex-boyfriend's name?" he inquired, urgency coloring his words.
Ella hesitated for a moment, gathering her thoughts before replying, "His name was Jung-hoon."
The color drained from Ji-hoon's face, his eyes widening with an unparalleled expression of astonishment. "Jung-hoon? Oh my God, I didn't know…" he trailed off, his words faltering.
Ella's eyes widened as she registered Ji-hoon's unexpected reaction. "What's wrong, Ji-hoon? Do you know Jung-hoon?" she asked, her voice laced with apprehension.
Ji-hoon composed himself, a hint of disbelief still lingering in his eyes as he replied, "Yes, he is my nephew. He's the one getting married today."
Ella's breath caught in her throat, her mind reeling from the unexpected revelation. The realization that the mother of her ex-boyfriend was a guest at the wedding of Ji-hoon's own family left her feeling disoriented and mildly anxious.
As the weight of the situation sank in, Ji-hoon placed a reassuring hand on Ella's shoulder, offering her a compassionate look. "I know this is unexpected, Ella, but I'm here for you. Whatever you need, I'll support you through this," he assured her, his voice filled with sincerity.
Ella nodded, deeply appreciating Ji-hoon's unwavering support. "Thank you, Ji-hoon. I just need a moment to process this," she murmured, her thoughts whirling as she tried to make sense of the surprising twist of fate.
Together, they both stepped out of the banquet hall and took a deep breath. They were trying their best to register the new information they received.