Jae Heon had never been involved in a single scandal before.

He was known for maintaining such a clean private life that there were even rumors about him not liking women.

However, Seo Yeon was well aware that people who were absolutely convinced of something could be blindsided.

“Until recently, I was sure he hadn’t met anyone.”

But phrases like ‘maybe’ or ‘could it be’ wouldn’t have popped up for no reason.

You should test the waters before crossing the bridge.

She thought it was a frozen iceberg, but when she actually tested it, it might turn out that only the surface was frozen, and beneath it, the water had gently melted in the spring sunshine.
Seo Yeon, taking a deep breath, clenched her trembling hand tightly and asked Jae Heon, “I’m just asking in case…”

In response to Seo Yeon’s voice, he suddenly regained his composure and raised his hand to interrupt her.

“Now, I don’t have the luxury of time. If you have something to say, please go through the secretary’s office.”

As Jae Heon, who had just gotten into the car, attempted to close the door.

Seo Yeon grabbed it.

Jae Heon’s dark pupils intensified, emitting a dangerous gleam.
“Even considering Grandfather’s perspective, there are limits to how much one can tolerate,” she said.

His gaze sent shivers down Seo Yeon’s spine, making her legs tremble. She felt like he could pounce on her any moment and bite her throat.

She had always considered herself strong, but in front of a predator like him, she was no more than a helpless puppy.

Nonetheless, she summoned the courage to speak, for the sake of her future. She didn’t want to live without being able to say a word to the man who might become her husband.

“Is there another woman?”

“…What?”

“I don’t think there is, but just in case. That’s why I’m asking. So I can prepare myself if necessary.”
“I don’t think there is, but just in case. That’s why I’m asking. So I can prepare myself if necessary.”

His expression narrowed as if he didn’t understand.

“Prepare?”

“I’m not willing, but I can understand. Where in this world is there a man without a second thought? I thought Director Seo Jae Heon was an exception, but… it can’t be helped. Exceptional people come with an exceptional price.”

Second thought?

At the vulgar word, Jae Heon’s expression turned cold.
“I’m not that closed off. Of course, I genuinely like Director Seo, but honestly, I wish I could just focus on myself. But I know that’s a story that only happens in fairy tales.”

“So.”

In a lowered voice, Seo Yeon hesitated.

“So we’re all going to live together like a happy family, is that it?”

“…Honestly, I don’t like it, but I’m willing to compromise a bit. If it’s necessary. As long as it doesn’t show in my eyes.”

It was unbelievable. What kind of thoughts could lead to such words in the first place?

‘I want to wash my ears.’

Was Grandfather’s vision really deteriorating?
How can they accept such a person as their son-in-law?

“But does that really mean there’s a woman…”

“I have no intention of living so vulgarly.”

Her face brightened at his words, as if he would be faithful to his wife once they married.

“I knew you’d say that.”

“I don’t understand why you like him. Be sure of one thing. I will never marry you. Never.”

At Jae Heon’s firm words, Seo Yeon was a little choked up in response.

“There’s no such thing as never in this world. You will eventually accept my proposal. I will be your best and greatest choice.”

No, that’s wrong.
There was another option for Jae Heon, the best and ultimate choice.

“The only reason I would consider your proposal is for business reasons. It’s a way to apologize for making you have foolish thoughts because of Chairman. Keep in mind that we discussed matters outside of business.”

After dismissing Seo Yeon’s hand, Jae Heon closed the door and immediately started the engine, leaving the parking lot.

Watching the black sedan disappear, Seo Yeon gritted her teeth.

“You and I will definitely get married.”

She took out her phone and made a call.

“Find out again if there is a woman in Seo Jae Heon’s life. In more detail, more thoroughly.”

He had wasted time.

Jae Heon furrowed his brow, as if annoyed.

To some, she might be the perfect bride, with a prestigious family, education, and looks that left nothing to be desired.

But not to him.

There was only one reason for that. She wasn’t Ra Jin.

Thinking of Ra Jin, he intermittently tapped the steering wheel with his index finger.

Tap. Tap. Tap.

Marriage. Marriage. Marriage.

It was bothersome, and he still wanted to focus solely on work.

But upon further reflection, it was a very good way to both satisfy his grandfather and extend the contract with Ra Jin indefinitely.
However, he was certain that if he brought up marriage with Ra Jin right now, she would undoubtedly refuse.

He had no intention of renewing a contract that was only three months long, let alone entering into a lifelong agreement.

‘I need to start planning from now on.’

Thinking of Ra Jin, he missed her.

By now, she might have finished eating and be having a cup of coffee with her secretary, Jung.

What did she eat? What was she drinking? He became curious about every little detail, and in the process, he realized how much he wanted to hear Ra Jin’s voice.

Jae Heon connected his car and phone via Bluetooth and dialed Ra Jin’s number.

Unlike usual, she didn’t answer right away.
‘Why? Normally, she answers before the signal even rings twice.’

As the signal lengthened, he became anxious.

Could it be that she gets annoyed just by seeing his name on her phone?

Has she already labeled him as a boss who doesn’t listen to valid and narrow-minded opinions?

…No, that couldn’t be. His secretary wouldn’t be like that. She’s such a professional.

As Jae Heon was trying to calm himself down, the voice he had been waiting for finally came through.