Emily's first few weeks in Seoul were a blur of classes, exploring the city, and adjusting to her new life. She had yet to make friends, but she was determined to make the most of her time in Korea. She threw herself into her art studies, finding solace in the creative expression.
One evening, as she was studying in her room, her father called her downstairs. "Emily, we need to talk." His voice was firm, but she detected a hint of nervousness.
"Coming, Father," Emily replied, saving her work and heading downstairs.
In the living room, her father and stepmother were seated on the couch, with a stranger standing by the window. He was tall, with chiseled features and piercing eyes that seemed to bore into her soul.
"Emily, this is Nicheal, CEO of HanCorp," her father said, gesturing to the stranger.
"Hello, Emily," Nicheal said, his voice deep and smooth. "It's a pleasure to meet you."
"Hi," Emily replied, feeling a shiver run down her spine as Nicheal's eyes locked onto hers.
"Emily, Nicheal has agreed to marry you," her father announced, his voice matter-of-fact.
"What? No, I won't do it!" Emily protested, shock and anger rising up inside her.
"Emily, this is a great opportunity for you," her stepmother chimed in. "Nicheal is a successful businessman, and this marriage will secure your future."
"But I don't want to marry him!" Emily exclaimed. "I don't even know him!"
"You'll get to know him," her father said, his expression unyielding. "And you'll do as you're told, Emily. This is not a request."
"I won't do it," Emily repeated, crossing her arms and glaring at her father.
Nicheal stepped forward, his eyes never leaving hers. "Emily, I understand your reservations, but I assure you, I'm a good man. I'll take care of you and provide for you."
"I don't want your money or your protection," Emily spat. "I want my freedom."
"Freedom is an illusion, Emily," Nicheal said, his voice low and husky. "We all have responsibilities and obligations. This marriage is one of them."
"But why me?" Emily asked, feeling a sense of desperation. "Why did you choose me?"
"Your father and I have a business deal," Nicheal explained. "This marriage is part of it. But I assure you, I'm not just marrying you for convenience. I find you... intriguing."
"Intriguing?" Emily repeated, her voice incredulous. "You don't even know me!"
"I know enough," Nicheal said, his eyes glinting with amusement. "And I'm willing to take the risk."
Emily felt a surge of anger at Nicheal's words, but her father intervened before she could respond.
"Enough, Emily," he said, his voice cold. "You'll do as you're told. The wedding will take place in two weeks."
As the conversation ended, Emily felt trapped and helpless.
"Can I at least think about it?" Emily asked, feeling a glimmer of hope.
"No," her father replied. "The decision is made. You'll marry Nicheal and that's final."
Emily felt a wave of despair wash over her. She was trapped, with no way out. But she refused to give up. She would find a way to escape this arranged marriage, no matter what it took.