DAYS LATER.....
The early morning sun filtered through the curtains of Seol-A's apartment, casting a warm glow over the room. Seol-A was still half-asleep when her phone buzzed with a message from Hyeon-Woo.
"Can you come to my grandmother's house today? We need to talk."
She rubbed her eyes, puzzled but not entirely surprised. Given the way things had been progressing, she knew that Mrs. Cha's next demand was likely around the corner. After quickly getting dressed, Seol-A headed out, her mind racing with possibilities.
Upon arriving at the grand and opulent Cha family estate, Seol-A was greeted by the familiar, formal staff. The house seemed to hum with activity as if anticipating something significant. She was ushered into a sitting room where Mrs. Cha was seated in an armchair, looking regal and serene.
"Good morning, Seol-A," Mrs. Cha said warmly, her eyes twinkling with a mix of mischief and approval. "Come, sit with me."
Seol-A took a seat across from her, trying to appear calm despite her nerves. Hyeon-Woo entered the room a few moments later, looking equally curious about the meeting.
"Ah, there you are," Mrs. Cha said, her gaze shifting between them. "I've been thinking about the future and our little arrangement."
Hyeon-Woo and Seol-A exchanged glances. "What is it, Grandmother?" Hyeon-Woo asked, his tone neutral but attentive.
Mrs. Cha's expression softened, and she leaned forward slightly. "I've been quite pleased with how things have been going. Seol-A, you've impressed me greatly, and I believe you're the perfect match for my grandson. However, there's something I must request."
Seol-A's heart skipped a beat. "What's that?"
Mrs. Cha's smile widened, and she clasped her hands in her lap. "I'd like you both to have a wedding."
Seol-A blinked, her mind struggling to process the request. "A wedding?"
"Yes," Mrs. Cha confirmed. "It's the final step to complete the façade and truly convince everyone that you're engaged. It will also make it easier to address the other families and business associates."
Hyeon-Woo looked equally taken aback but managed to maintain his composure. "Grandmother, are you sure about this? We've been managing just fine with the pretense."
Mrs. Cha's eyes sparkled with determination. "I am sure. A wedding will not only solidify your relationship but also provide a sense of security and closure. Besides, it's what everyone expects."
Seol-A felt a mix of anxiety and confusion. The idea of a wedding was daunting, especially since their engagement was supposed to be temporary. "But, Mrs. Cha, a wedding is a significant commitment. We…"
Mrs. Cha raised a hand gently to silence her. "I understand your concerns, Seol-A. However, it's important for family and for the sake of appearances. Think of it as a way to ensure stability and to make a grand statement. Plus, it would be a beautiful event."
Hyeon-Woo took Seol-A's hand in his, offering her a reassuring squeeze. "We'll do it, Grandmother. If it means fulfilling our arrangement and making you happy, we'll make the necessary preparations."
Mrs. Cha beamed with satisfaction. "Splendid! We'll start planning right away. I'm sure it will be a magnificent occasion."
As they left Mrs. Cha's house, Seol-A and Hyeon-Woo walked together in silence, the weight of the upcoming wedding sinking in. Despite their initial trepidation, there was an undeniable sense of resolution between them.
Hyeon-Woo broke the silence, his voice soft but steady. "Are you okay with this?"
Seol-A looked up at him, her heart full of mixed emotions. "It's unexpected, but I think we can manage. After all, we've come this far."
Hyeon-Woo nodded, a faint smile on his lips. "We'll make the best of it. And who knows? Maybe this wedding will be more than just a formality."
As they continued their walk, the thought of the wedding loomed large, but so did the realization that their journey together had taken a new and significant turn.