CONTINUATION
The call connected, and after a few rings, a soft, confused voice came through the line.
"H. . Hello? Sorry, who is this and how can I help you?"
Jaekyung hesitated, his breath caught in his throat suprised by the tone of the voice, unsure of how to respond.
Jaekyung snapped out of it and steadied himself, the tension in the air palpable as he finally spoke. "Hello,Is this Sangwoo? This is Jang Jaekyung."
For a brief moment, there was only silence on the other end. Then, a stammering response came back, filled with disbelief. "H-h-hello? Jang… Jang Jaekyung? T-t-the Jang Jaekyung?"
Jaekyung could practically hear Sangwoo's shock reverberating through the phone line.
"Yes, same Jang Jaekyung," he replied, maintaining a calm demeanor despite the flutter of nerves in his stomach. "I got your number from Jin. He mentioned you might be of help for a situation I need help with."
There was a brief pause, and Jaekyung imagined Sangwoo's wide eyes, his mind racing to catch up with the unexpected reality. "O-oh! You know Jin? I—I didn't expect… like, um, h-how can I help you, sir?" Sangwoo's voice had a tinge of excitement mixed with nerves.
Jaekyung pressed forward, feeling the weight of what he was about to propose. "I need your assistance with an... unconventional task. I'm looking for a fake fiancé."
Sangwoo was silent for a moment, clearly taken aback. "A fake fiancé? For—uh, are you serious?"
"Yes, very serious. My family have been relentless with their expectations, pressuring me to marry someone suitable. This isn't just about them; it's about stopping all the prying into my personal life altogether," Jaekyung explained, his tone firm. "I want to shock them with this engagement. If I appear to be settling down, they'll finally leave me alone."
"W-wait," Sangwoo stammered, digesting the sudden shift. "You want a fake fiancé to—what, fool your family and the press?"
"Precisely," Jaekyung confirmed, feeling purposeful. "It's about controlling the narrative on my terms. I thought of you because my secretary, Eunwoo—who is also your friend's boyfriend—told me that you're very private and discreet. Plus, you're not in the limelight."
"Me? Discreet?" Sangwoo repeated incredulously. "I-I guess that makes sense, but still… wow, this is a lot to take in! But it could be… kind of fun, right? Are you really sure you want someone like me for this?"
"Yes," Jaekyung affirmed, his voice steady and persuasive. "You would fit the role perfectly, and I need someone who can handle the complexities that come with it. I'm also ready to compensate you fairly, too. Just name your price."
Sangwoo hesitated but then replied, enthusiasm creeping into his tone. "Okay! I'm in, but I want to make sure we set some ground rules for this arrangement!"
"Absolutely," Jaekyung agreed, relieved. "I'll text you the time and location for us to meet and discuss the details further. Thank you, Sangwoo. This is a step forward for me."
After the call ended, Jaekyung leaned back in his chair, feeling a mix of relief and excitement. He had taken the plunge, and now there was no turning back. This plan could either free him from his family's oppressive expectations or draw him deeper into chaos.
He glanced around the now-lonely office, the weight of the decision settling on his shoulders. The silence felt both comforting and foreboding, marking the beginning of a charade that was sure to shake things up. With a deep breath, he prepared himself for whatever came next, the look of shock on his family's and the entire country 's faces already playing like a scene in his mind.
The next day, the morning sun peeked through Sangwoo's curtains, casting a warm glow across his room. He woke up early, the excitement bubbling inside him like a fizzy drink ready to burst. Today was the day he would meet Jang Jaekyung face-to-face for the first time, and the thought sent a mix of happiness and nervousness coursing through him.
As he got ready, a flutter of anticipation twisted in his stomach. What if Jaekyung was as cold and strict in person as the rumors suggested? The thought made Sangwoo's heart race. He had heard tales of Jaekyung's stoic demeanor, and he couldn't help but wonder whether he would be able to connect with someone who seemed so unapproachable. Would he be able to penetrate that icy exterior, or would he find himself overwhelmed by the pressure? A small, almost imperceptible part of him also considered the financial security this arrangement promised; enough to change his family's life.
After taking a quick shower, he dressed carefully, choosing a crisp white shirt and well-fitted pants. He wanted to make a good first impression—after all, this was a pivotal moment that could change his life. As he stood in front of the mirror, adjusting his collar, he felt a flutter of anticipation. What would Jaekyung be like? Would he be as charismatic in person as he seemed on screen, or would the icy demeanor he projected in public be a barrier to overcome?
Once he was satisfied with his appearance, Sangwoo came out of his room and hurriedly went to the kitchen, where the smell of his mother's cooking filled the air. He quickly poured himself a bowl of cereal, but his mind was racing with thoughts of the meeting.
"Why are you so bubbly today, Sangwoo?" his eomma asked, glancing up from the stove with a curious smile.
He couldn't help but beam back at her. "Good morning~, today I'm meetimg someone who could change our life!" he replied, unable to contain his excitement.
His mother's face lit up with interest. "Who? What job is this?"
Sangwoo leaned over and kissed her cheek, feeling a rush of affection. "I don't have time to explain right now, eomma! I promise I'll tell you all about it later!"
With that, he grabbed his bag and rushed out of the house, his heart racing. He quickly booked a taxi, his mind still buzzing with possibilities. As he settled into the back seat, he opened his messages to check the location Jaekyung had sent him.
"The Obsidian Lounge, Cheongdam-dong—in Gangnam," he read, his breath catching for a moment. It was an upscale area, far removed from his own neighborhood of Goru. He felt a mix of nerves and excitement as he relayed the address to the driver.
"Let's go!" he said, anticipation bubbling within him as the taxi pulled away from his familiar surroundings. The streets of Goru faded behind him, replaced by a sense of hope for a brighter future.
As they drove through the city, Sangwoo couldn't help but think about how this meeting might finally bring him the change he had always dreamed of—an opportunity to break free from his routine and step into an exciting new chapter of his life. And maybe, just maybe, give his family the comfortable life they deserved.
As the taxi glided through the bustling streets of Gangnam, Sangwoo couldn't shake the mix of exhilaration and apprehension that washed over him. He gazed out the window, watching the cityscape transform into one of glitzy boutiques and the towering skyscrapers. The energy of the area was palpable, and it made his heart race even faster.
Arriving at The Obsidian Lounge, the driver pulled up to a sleek, glass-fronted building that radiated sophistication. Sangwoo took a deep breath, steadying himself as he took in the elegant entrance. A doorman in a sharp suit greeted him with a respectful nod as he approached the door.
Once inside, he was enveloped by an ambiance of soft lighting and hushed conversations. The lounge was tastefully decorated, with plush seating and a chic bar that showcased an array of colorful drinks. Already, a few patrons lounged around, their laughter mingling with the clinking of glasses.
Feeling slightly out of place, Sangwoo scanned the room for Jaekyung. He waited at the entrance, heart pounding. Was he really ready for this? Just then, his phone buzzed in his pocket. It was a message from Jaekyung: "I'm at the bar. Looking forward to meeting you."
Sangwoo's stomach flipped as he made his way towards the bar, trying to recall all the advice he had given himself to prepare for this moment. Be confident. Be yourself. But as he drew closer, a wave of doubt crept in. What if he couldn't impress Jaekyung?
At the bar, he spotted Jaekyung sitting calmly, a glass of whiskey in front of him. He exuded an air of control, his striking features highlighted by the dim lighting and his sharp attire giving him a commanding presence. Sangwoo noticed how people around him seemed to be drawn in by a magnetic force, their conversations fading as they glanced in Jaekyung's direction.
Taking a deep breath, Sangwoo gathered his courage and approached. "Jang Jaekyung?" he said, trying to suppress the tremor in his voice.
Jaekyung looked up, his expression unreadable at first. For a moment, Sangwoo felt as if he had stepped into a world that was far beyond his own. But then, Jaekyung's lips curled into a slight smile, and it felt like the tension in the air lifted a little.
"Sangwoo. I'm glad you could make it," he replied, his voice a little rough just how he was portrayed in the public .
Sangwoo offered a nervous smile, suddenly aware of how much he wanted to impress this man. "Thank you for inviting me," he said, trying to keep his tone steady. "I really appreciate this opportunity."
Jaekyung gestured to the seat next to him. "Have a seat. Let's talk," he said, gesturing to the bartender for another drink. As he turned back to Sangwoo, there was a keen spark in his eyes that suggested he was assessing him carefully.
Sangwoo sat down, his heart racing with anticipation. This was the moment he had been waiting for—the chance to learn from someone he admired and perhaps prove that he was ready to step into a larger role in his career.
"Tell me about yourself," Jaekyung prompted, leaning slightly forward as if genuinely interested.
And in that moment, surrounded by the luxury of The Obsidian Lounge and the presence of someone he had looked up to for so long and even envied, Sangwoo felt a simmering resolve within him. He began to share his story, hoping to convey not just his aspirations but also his passion for the industry and how eager he was to learn.
"My name is Lee Sangwoo," he started, his voice a little shaky at first, but gaining strength as he spoke. "I'm 24, and I graduated from Hongik University with a degree in Fine Arts. I'm an artist, though… truthfully, my work hasn't exactly been selling. My dream is to create art that resonates with people, that evokes emotion and sparks conversation—art that transcends the limits of commercial success. I live in Goru, a small neighborhood far from here, and let's just say my living conditions aren't ideal. It's a constant struggle to make ends meet."
He paused for a moment, collecting his thoughts. "I'm paying for my younger brother's college tuition and covering most of the bills at home. My family… they're everything to me. They've always supported my dreams, even when things were tough. And this opportunity… this job you're offering… it's more than just a job to me. It's a chance to finally give them something back, to ease their burdens, and to give them a better life. It's a chance to pull us out of this… this poverty. It's a chance to finally give them the life they deserve."
He looked at Jaekyung, his eyes filled with a mixture of hope and desperation. "I'm grateful for this chance, Mr. Jang. I won't let you down."
Jaekyung studied him for a moment, his expression thoughtful and just nodded.
Sangwoo didn't hesitate and continued. "I've faced challenges before. I know what hard work looks like, and I'm ready to learn and grow."
Jaekyung's gaze softened just a fraction, and for a brief moment, Sangwoo felt the weight of the world lift slightly. Maybe this was the opportunity he had been searching for—a doorway to a future where he could not only support his family but also make his mark .
Jaekyung listened intently, his expression remaining inscrutable. When Sangwoo finished, a long silence stretched between them, broken only by the soft jazz music drifting through the lounge. Then, Jaekyung leaned forward, his gaze unwavering. "So, Lee Sangwoo," he said, his voice low and deliberate, "you've painted a vivid picture of your circumstances. But let's be clear about this. This is a business arrangement. Are you truly ready for this? Ready to be my… fiancé? This will be a monthly payment until the end of our contract. How much do you want per month?"
Sangwoo took a deep breath, trying to steady his racing heart. He glanced around the lounge, at the luxurious surroundings and the effortless elegance of the patrons before looking back at Jaekyung. He thought of his brother's bright future, his parents' weary faces, and the constant struggle to make ends meet. He thought of the sacrifices they had made and the dreams they had to put on hold.
He opened his mouth, his voice trembling slightly. "Five… five million won," he managed to say, the words barely audible above the soft murmur of the lounge. It was a significant sum, more than he had ever earned in his entire life, but it felt meager considering the magnitude of the task ahead. This was a gamble, a desperate attempt to secure a better future for his family, a future he had worked so hard to achieve. He waited, his heart pounding, for Jaekyung's response, knowing that his fate—and that of his family—hung in the balance.
Jaekyung nodded slowly, a subtle movement that belied the weight of the decision. The slight inclination of his head, the barely perceptible tightening of his lips, conveyed a silent agreement, a confirmation that sealed Sangwoo's fate. "Alright, Sangwoo. We have a deal," he said, his voice steady. "I believe you'll find this arrangement mutually beneficial."
Sangwoo's heart surged with a mix of relief and trepidation. He knew this was the opportunity he needed, but the road ahead would be filled with challenges. "Thank you," he whispered, feeling a rush of gratitude and fear at the same time.
"Let's get started then," Jaekyung replied, his demeanor shifting back to that of the confident man he had been when Sangwoo first met him. "I already have the contract drawn up. Let's go over the details,shall we?."
He opened the folder, revealing several pages of meticulously typed legal text. The contract detailed the terms: a one-year agreement with an option for renewal, monthly payments of 7 million won, the stipulations for public appearances, the strict confidentiality clause, and the termination clauses. Sangwoo scanned the document, his eyes darting over the dense legal jargon, his heart pounding with a mixture of apprehension and determination.
After a tense silence, Sangwoo signed the contract, his hand trembling slightly as the pen moved across the page. He felt a strange mix of relief and dread as he finished the signature. It was done. He had committed himself to a year of deception, a year of carefully constructed lies and public performances.
Jaekyung watched him, his expression unreadable. He took the signed contract, his fingers tracing the elegant script of Sangwoo's signature. A ghost of a smile played on his lips, a subtle expression that hinted at something unfathomable. He then leaned back, his gaze intense. "Excellent," he said, his voice low and smooth. "Now, let's discuss the first event. It's a rather important gala next week, and I expect you to be prepared because it'll be our first appearance as a couple."
"The gala," Jaekyung repeated, his voice cutting through Sangwoo's thoughts. "It's a significant event. We need to ensure a flawless performance. I'll have my stylist and image consultant contact you. They'll prepare you for your role."
Sangwoo nodded, a subtle hint of a smile playing on his lips. "I understand," he replied, his voice firm. "I will make sure to meet your expectations, Mr. Jang." He was not just accepting the role; he was taking ownership of it. He would use his intelligence and charm to navigate the complexities of this arrangement, always keeping his ultimate goal—his family's security—firmly in sight. The soft jazz music seemed less melancholic now; it was the soundtrack to his carefully planned ascent.
Just then, Jaekyung's phone buzzed, interrupting the conversation. He glanced at the screen, his expression shifting subtly. "Excuse me," he said, his voice taking on a more businesslike tone. "It's Minho. My business partner. We have a meeting scheduled."
He stood up, signaling the end of their meeting. "Let's leave together," Jaekyung said, his tone indicating a change in pace. He gestured toward the exit. As they walked, he added, "The driver will assist you with your move. He'll come tomorrow to help you pack, and he'll pick you up on the weekend to transport your belongings. Consider this a courtesy, Sangwoo; efficiency is key."
They exited the lounge into the bright afternoon sunlight. A sleek black car was waiting, one of Jaekyung's many. He merely nodded to the driver, his expression neutral, before turning back to Sangwoo. "I trust you understand the importance of discretion. Until our next meeting." With that, he turned and walked toward another vehicle, leaving Sangwoo to be driven home.
As he settled into the back seat, the weight of the contract, the upcoming gala, and the impending move settled heavily upon him. Each element felt intertwined with the promise of something bigger yet laden with uncertainty. He couldn't shake off the reality of what he had just committed to, but deep down, the flicker of hope for his family's future ignited a sense of purpose within him.
Sangwoo had barely stepped through the door when the overwhelming sense of relief washed over him. The weight of the day—of everything he had just signed—began to melt away, even if just for a moment. He freshened up quickly, splashing his face with cool water, trying to shake off the heaviness that accompanied the thoughts of moving in with Jaekyung.
Once he felt a bit more composed, he made his way to the living room and sank into the soft cushions of the couch. He reached for the remote, eager to escape into the world of mindless entertainment. But before he could even flip the TV on, Joon and Mrs. Lee bounded in, clinging to him like they hadn't seen him in ages.
"Hyung! You're back! Tell us everything!" Joon exclaimed, excitement bubbling in his voice.
Mrs. Lee was right there, her eyes bright with curiosity. "Yes, Sangwoo! Who did you meet? Was it someone important?,Did you go on a date?"
Sangwoo felt a flicker of hesitation. He could tell them about the meeting—how a rich businessman who was also art collector was interested in his art—but he couldn't mention the fake engagement contract or the cohabitation clause tied to it. Jaekyung's stern warning about discretion echoed in his mind, reminding him that this secret had to be kept from everyone, especially his family.
He took a deep breath, his heart racing as he scrambled for the right words. "Um, it was just a meeting with a wealthy art collector who's a business man too," he said, crafting the narrative quickly. "He's interested in my murals and wants to pay a lot for one."
Mrs. Lee's eyes widened with delight, her face lighting up like a Christmas tree. "Really? That's wonderful, Sangwoo! Do you think it means we can finally pay the house rent and settle Joon's tuition fees?"
"Yeah, exactly," he replied, trying to suppress the mixture of pride and anxiety swelling inside him. It felt good to see their faces so happy, yet he couldn't shake off the weight of the secret he was holding.
Joon was practically bouncing in his seat, eagerly filling the void. "That's amazing, Hyung! I knew you'd get recognized for your talent!"
"Just wait until we tell everyone!" Mrs. Lee added, wrapping her arms around Sangwoo in a tight embrace. He felt a pang of guilt for not being entirely honest with them, but he brushed it aside.
Mrs. Lee turned to the kitchen, bustling about to dish out his food, while Joon handed him a pair of chopsticks, grinning widely. They settled into a comfortable routine as they ate—the three of them chatting and laughing about the little things in life, a tapestry of everyday joys that made burdens feel lighter.
After a while, as he swallowed a mouthful of the delicious Tteokkbokki, an unexpected belch escaped him. He froze, then smiled sheepishly, his cheeks flushing. "Sowwy!" he said, raising his hands in a playful gesture of apology.
"Hyung, that's so rude!" Joon teased, unable to contain his laughter. Mrs. Lee shook her head, chuckling softly. "You're such a dork. But you're our dork!"
Their laughter filled the space between them, chasing away the shadows that loomed in Sangwoo's thoughts. After they finished eating, they moved to the couch, settling in together, the warm glow of the television casting a cozy light around them.
As surfed through channels and settled on a show, Sangwoo couldn't help but soak in the moment. This—this warmth, this laughter—was everything he wanted. Sitting there with his family, he felt a deep sense of pride in what he had done and who he was trying to be for them.
But as he sat with his family, the warmth of their laughter momentarily dispelled the shadows of his secret. He felt a surge of guilt creep in again as he remembered the details of the contract he'd signed with Jaekyung—especially the cohabitation clause that meant he would be living under the same roof as someone he barely knew for an entire year. It felt like a weight on his chest, juxtaposed against the lightness of the moment.
He looked over at Joon and his eomma ,Mrs.Lee, both so happy and oblivious to the layers of his reality. They had so much faith in him, in his talent. The thought of disappointing them gnawed at his insides. How could he possibly explain the arrangement with Jaekyung without causing worry or confusion? If he mentioned the cohabitation, they'd be filled with questions—questions he wasn't ready to answer.
A pang of guilt twisted in Sangwoo's stomach as he fiddled with his chopsticks, an idea started to form. "Maybe I could say I'm keeping my works in a studio apartment attached to Jaekyung's place until he decides which pieces he wants," he thought. That could give a sense of legitimacy to the situation without diving into the murky waters of the engagement contract.
"Uh, about the the man who I went to see this morning for my murals," he said, trying to sound casual. "I might be working closely with him, so I'll probably be around his place a lot for the next year. He has a studio space where I can work on larger pieces, and it'll help me focus. That way, I'll have more time to create and possibly get another big break. And don't worry, I'll be living with him and his family ",he added chuckling softly.
His mother's eyebrows furrowed slightly, a flicker of doubt crossed her face,"Are you sure that's a good idea?, Living with someone you don't know very well?" Her tone carried a hint of worry,her motherly instincts kicking in.
Listening to his eomma's worry, Sangwoo felt a rush of affection and guilt was over him, letting out a quiet sight." I'll be very careful eomma, don't worry. It's just strictly business, right ?"
"Wow Hyung! , you're really going to live high but you better not forget us!" Joon added, his playful tone lightening the moment. "Just because you're a big-time artist doesn't mean you can forget your little brother!"
Sangwoo chuckled, heartened by their acceptance. "Of course not! I'll always be here for you guys. You're my priority."
The thought of sharing his life with Jaekyung felt so much heavier now that he had equated it with business, but he resolved to keep things under wraps for as long as possible.
As they settled in to watch another episode on TV, the giggles and playful banter gently urged the remnants of his worries to the background, if only momentarily. Here, surrounded by the comforts of home and the people he loved, Sangwoo felt a renewed sense of purpose. He would protect his family from the burdens of his new reality, at least until he could find a way to reconcile the two worlds—his hidden life with Jaekyung and the loving, simple life he cherished at home.