[Politics] Surge, Ha Cheon-woo, the leader of the Progressive Innovation Party! Overwhelming support with 58.04%... Effect of embracing minority forces?

[Comprehensive] Representative Ha Cheon-woo's child, Yoo-jin is getting married to the same-sex... Partner is a professor at S University.

[Issue Talk] Ha Cheon-woo's true feelings... "I accepted my daughter, so how can I not accept minority individuals? We are all equal."

Regarding Ha Cheon-woo's only daughter, Ms. Yoo-jin, who has recently been involved in a same-sex dating scandal, her father, Representative Ha Cheon-woo, has spoken out. During a press conference, Representative Ha Cheon-woo opened up with honesty, stating that he would answer with a father's heart.

Representative Ha expressed, "I personally heard the recent talk about my daughter being involved with another woman. How can any parent calmly accept such words? However, I realized that if I don't accept my own daughter, who else would? I thought about it not as the politician Ha Cheon-woo, but as the father Ha Cheon-woo. My daughter, who respects and cherishes a flawed father who hasn't done enough, sincerely loves someone. Accepting the person she loves was easier for me than losing my daughter."

When a reporter asked, "Have you ever met Ms. Yoo-jin's lover?", he laughed and replied, "I couldn't help but be nervous when I heard that she was a professor at S University, the most prestigious university in Korea, but a person my daughter chose must be a wise and good-natured person." He also made a witty remark, "I must say, I am not jealous of any son-in-law, as she is no less impressive than a son-in-law could be.

Continuing with a more serious expression, Representative Ha stated, "I want to retract my previously expressed negative stance on same-sex marriage. I humbly accept any criticism regarding this matter. However, it was considered inconsistent to accept my own daughter while not embracing minority groups. We are all equal individuals, so how can we not treat everyone equally?" He continued the question and answer session with these remarks.

[Breaking News] Representative Ha Cheon-woo pushes for same-sex marriage legislation…Backlash from the opposition party.

[Exclusive] Former Representative Ha Cheon-woo registers as a candidate for the mayoral election after resigning from the legislative position! Is he aiming for the next presidential race?

[Politics] Candidate Ha Cheon-woo, overwhelmingly elected as the mayor with 66.06% overwhelming support.

"... Ms. Jae-hee holds American citizenship and obtained a bachelor's degree from S University, known as one of the top prestigious universities in the country. After obtaining master's and doctoral degrees from an American Ivy League university, she returned to Korea and was appointed as the youngest professor at her alma mater, S University, at the age of twenty-nine. Ms. Jae-hee, known for her versatility, is reported to have participated in the after-party to celebrate Mayor Ha Cheon-woo's election, alongside Ms. Yoo-jin, as his daughter-in-law...."

Jae-hee stopped unbuttoning her blouse, picked up the remote, and nervously turned off the TV. What after-party? Jae-hee had to hail a deluxe taxi because she didn't want reporters to see her walking home alone and lonely. She sat down on the couch, crossed her legs, and stared out the window. It was raining steadily. The rain made her feel emotional, and she stared out the window with tears in her eyes. Her mind reeled with the conversation she'd had with Yoo-jin the first night.

'I know you're disappointed in me. I won't ask for much.'

'...that's not a pleasant sound coming out of a bride's mouth on her first night. Well, I guess a swindler who's been deceiving me for five years isn't going to talk sweet on the first night.'

'Even if father rarely shows affection, he will treat you well for the sake of his political career. So under father's support, you can comfortably pursue your research and occasionally show our harmonious relationship.'

'...it's a contract marriage, isn't it?'

'...if you think that way, fine. Yes, let's have a contract marriage.'

And after a very short pause, at Yoo-jin's words, Jae-hee straightened up.

'...you can have a lover. Just make sure you don't get caught.'

'Ha! You're really crazy.'

'You can do as you please, Jae-hee.'

You think I'm going to do what you want? Jae-hee looked at the wedding ring on her ring finger with resentment.  The large diamond ring bestowed by the only daughter of the next presidential candidate and the president of Howon Department Store, the largest in Korea, did not fill Jae-hee's heart at all. After she said that, she coldly turned around and headed for the small room attached to the suite. Still edgy. I was the only one who was sincere.

"Damn wife..."

Jae-hee washed her face and stood up from her seat, heading into the study. On the excessive wall, there were pictures of two women in wedding dresses, smiling brightly at each other.

* * * 

"Congratulations on your marriage, Professor Seon."

"Thank you, Professor Han."

"Moreover, with your father-in-law being elected as the mayor... It's a double celebration, I can't help but congratulate you. Haha-"

Jae-hee gracefully accepted the belated wedding congratulations. It was a wedding like a casual gathering, like roasting beans over a bonfire, right after the end of the first semester. It was a formal wedding where they couldn't properly invite anyone except for immediate family members and relatives. Still, it seemed like a cause for celebration in the eyes of others. And right after the start of the new semester, her father-in-law's election as the mayor. To outsiders, Jae-hee was truly thriving and succeeding.

She was appointed as the youngest professor at a prestigious university in the country, she married the well-known daughter of a powerful politician even though same-sex marriage is not yet legally recognized. She gained reputation as the daughter-in-law who supported her father-in-law and the daughter-in-law who received support from her father-in-law. She was a rare figure in the country as the protagonist of a same-sex marriage, but she received more congratulations than criticism, partly due to the influence of her father-in-law, Ha Cheon-woo.

S University was a place where professors engaged in covert power struggles, so the matter was not without its share of noise. However, at least in front of Jae-hee, those discussions disappeared without a trace, thanks to Cheon-woo's influence. He is the ruling party's formidable figure and a potential presidential candidate. A political fox in the political arena who balanced the conservative and progressive forces and gained the support of both camps, and she is the wife of Ha Cheon-woo's only daughter. That name carried a considerable sense of awe.

The opposition party changed direction after realizing their logic of criticizing same-sex marriage, which went against public sentiment, but the opposition party's approval rating was barely maintained by the conservative elderly. Even though the professors criticized them inwardly, they did not show it outwardly. Those who had learned enough knew all too well that blatant criticism was to disgrace themselves.

'How many of these people sincerely offered their congratulations?'

"Then, see you at the next meeting."

"See you later.”

After bowing politely, Jae-hee left the professors' meeting room. Click, clack. She wore fairly high heels, but Jae-hee walked with steady steps. Her navy blue slacks accentuated her graceful legs, and the unbuttoned white blouse subtly revealed her collarbone. The navy blue jacket she wore on top fit snugly around her waistline. Her wavy hair swayed with each step she took. A plain earring-free ear could be seen peeking through her hair.

She left the administrative building and entered the College of Education. She nodded lightly to the students who greeted her and entered her research lab. She kicked off her high heels and quickly changed into slippers then plopped down on the sofa. The table was scattered with research materials and papers related to Jae-hee's ongoing research. She lifted her head and glanced at the materials. "Analysis of Variables Affecting Child Development: Based on Analysis of Childhood Experiences"...Looking at her unfinished stats made her head thump.

Jae-hee sighed and tidied them up. A sudden knock caused her to raise head. She pushed her heels under the table with her foot and looked up, then spoke.

"Yes, please come in."

"Unnie*, it is me."

*Elder Sister (언니) address by younger females (not exclusive to blood relatives) to an older female, showing respect and closeness. Pronunciation guide, it's an 'eo' sound not oo/u, it's Sunny without the 'S' 

"...seriously, you really won't call me professor?"

"Ei, it's just us~"

"Assistant* Kang, aren't you taking my class this time?"

*student assistant 

"Oh, you're grumpy again~ Professor Seon's grumpiness can't be cured."

Jaehee gestured Soo-jin to take the seat across from her. Seeing Soo-jin leaning on the sofa as if it were her own seat, Jae-hee found it amusing.

"Is your thesis going well?"

"Geez You know how strict Professor Han is. It's a revision swamp~"

"Professor Han can be meticulous, but it wasn't to this extent... Bring me your paper, I'll give it a once-over and provide some feedback."

"Waah!!! Long live Professor Seon!"

"I don't need obvious flattery."

At Jae-hee's eloquent words, Soo-jin clasped her hands together and praised Jae-hee. Jae-hee chuckled at the sight, then turned on the electric kettle in the corner of her office and pulled out tea leaves and a teapot.

"By the way, how's married life? It must be enjoyable."

"Isn't that crossing the line? Being curious about a professor's personal life."

"Hehehe, are we strangers?!"

"We are, indeed."

"Unnie, have you seen the news? They said you're a beautiful, wealthy woman. I almost threw up when I saw that, and I'm sure everyone in your class hit the ground and threw up."

"How about giving you an assignment for this class to translate three German books, summarize the key points, and write a short paper, all in one week?"

"I couldn't sleep all night because I was boiling with anger at these lowly yellow journalists who were trying to say that Professor Seon, who boasts of her outstanding beauty and extraordinary brain, is only good-looking and wealthy!"

Jae-hee calmly held the handle of the boiling electric kettle, brushing off Soo-jin's playful remark. Even though they were close, she couldn't openly admit to being a contracted married couple, could she? Swallowing those words, Jae-hee pretended to be unconcerned.

"Just good, well. You know how I was when I was dating."

"Ei, not about that~ I know all about your dramatic love story. But I didn't know Yoo-jin unnie was young & rich.

"That, I also found out just before getting married."

"I know, that's even better~ I mean, I'd love to hear the steamy slices of an ideal couple, blinded by love more than material things!"

"What are you expecting? You look sinister."

"Oh ho ho, I'm a bit mischievous."

Jae-hee poured hot water into the teapot. Seeing her brewing tea, Soo-jin took the opportunity and asked the question she had been wanting to ask.

"By the way, how is your in-law? Are things the same as they say in the news?"

"Father-in-law?" He's a nice person."

"Oh... How was the inauguration celebration afterparty?"

Jae-hee's eyebrows twitched momentarily, but she quickly put on a bright smile.

"Well it's a congratulatory party, what else? Ah, that's right. Professor Han talked about the academic conference last time…"

"Unnie, I'm really doomed. I'm the first presenter. Even though it's a light academic presentation among Master's students, it's still nerve-wracking!"

While listening to Soo-jin's complaints, Jae-hee felt relieved, thinking that she had successfully changed the subject appropriately. The topic of "marriage" was the most unfamiliar and avoided one for Jae-hee, who had recently gotten married. Although she had to get used to it now, she suppressed her inner discomfort and continued the conversation.

* * * 

Jae-hee's car glided smoothly into the parking lot. In the designated parking area, there was already a familiar black sedan parked. She's already here. Jae-hee slowly pulled up next to it with her SUV. Holding her bag with research papers like a reluctant child who doesn't want to go home, she hesitated for a moment before pressing the elevator button.

"...you're here?"

Surprised, Jae-hee's eyes widened. It was Yoo-jin, wearing casual clothes and a hat.

"Where did you go?"

"I left something in the car."

While it could have been a passing conversation in normal circumstances, Jae-hee tightened her grip on the bag in her hand and added a word.

"Why? Did your lover come?"

Knowing better than anyone that there was no way to do that, as she's obviously parked next to Yoo-jin's car, Jae-hee just had to spit out sharp words again. Yoo-jin quietly looked at her. Knowing Jae-hee's gentle and tender nature better than anyone, Yoo-jin felt a sense of unease whenever she heard Jae-hee's prickly remarks since "that day." Yoo-jin was sometimes angry, but knowing it was her own fault, she didn't point out Jae-hee's words and tone.

Yoo-jin remained silent, knowing that Jae-hee, who usually had a round and gentle personality, would be upset and tormented alone when she is prickly. The elevator doors slammed shut as no one boarded.

"...why? Don't you like it? You've been deceiving me all this time, can't you add that one up?

"...yes. I've been deceiving you for so long, what's the big deal about having a lover?"

As Yoo-jin spat out harsh words, portraying herself as a bad person, Jae-hee spoke with a self-reproachful tone. Being aware of the words that could become daggers between them, the two of them engaged in a piercing exchange. It was Yoo-jin who broke the awkward silence.

"...I'm going to make a phone call. You go ahead and go up first."

"..."

Watching Yoo-jin's departing figure, Jae-hee pressed the elevator button again. Jae-hee let out a deep sigh. Is this what married conversations are like, cold and barren? Jae-hee chuckled bitterly. Of course, her own sulking had contributed to the sterile conversation, but... When she thought back to their dating days, it was something unimaginable. But it's a loveless marriage, so it's only natural. Well, it should be.

Jae-hee's breath caught in her throat every time she saw Yoo-jin. Now, she realized that her eyes, which she firmly believed were filled with love, were actually empty. This author of a doctoral dissertation seemed truly foolish. Jae-hee's bitter steps continued as she reached the silent and spacious house. Taking off her high heels and putting on slippers, Jae-hee walked weakly. She glanced quietly into the master bedroom and then entered the study.

From the first night of their marriage, they slept in separate rooms. Even during their honeymoon, they insisted on reserving separate rooms, going as far as booking a suite. This fact was a secret sensation that couldn't be revealed to anyone. The only daughter of a big-time politician, the CEO of the top department store in Korea, and the youngest professor at the country's most prestigious S university, who got married through a large-scale scandal involving the same-sex marriage, are living apart from the first day of their honeymoon. No one had explicitly suggested using separate rooms, but like an unwritten rule, Jae-hee and Yoo-jin did not sleep together.

Jae-hee placed her bag on the floor and leaned against the thick chair. Despite Jae-hee sitting in it, the fairly expensive chair didn't easily budge. It was a sturdy chair. She took off her jacket and casually placed it on the desk, unbuttoning a couple more buttons. Jae-hee looked at the single bed tucked in one corner. She couldn't even escape from a folding bed in her research lab... and now she found herself relying on a single bed at home.

Jae-hee was skeptical about their honeymoon phase. Despite her cynical nature, she had fantasies about marriage. Moreover, it was a marriage with Yoo-jin, whom she loved so dearly. That's why she readily accepted Yoo-jin's proposal in Korea and was happy about it. If it weren't for "that incident," their married life might have been different. Or perhaps it was better this way. Rather than living a lifetime of deceit and betrayal, maybe it was better to know the truth like this.

She took out a small key from the pocket of her jacket and unlocked the drawer of the sturdy wooden desk. Inside, there was a velvet box, and she picked it up. With a soft click, the box opened, revealing the ring that captivated Jae-hee at first sight. It was a modest ring compared to the wedding ring with a large diamond in the center, but it was the ring that Yoo-jin personally put on her finger.

'You have been a blessing and happiness in every moment we spent together.'

'I want to spend the rest of my life with you.'

'Jae-hee, will you marry me?'

Such a person tells you to find a lover. Love, the love I dreamed of, wasn't supposed to be like this. The love I received from you wasn't pretense. No, it was a pretense, and I fell for it. Jae-hee thought of Yoo-jin. It feels like she's grown further apart from me than anyone else. Remembering a relationship that seemed to regress even more than when they were dating, Jae-hee sighed, put the engagement ring back in the drawer, and went to sleep. Then, she got up, headed to the bathroom.

Wearing a nightgown, Jae-hee stayed in the living room for a while. As Yoo-jin didn't come in, she considered contacting her but dismissed the idea. Nonetheless, her gaze fell on the schedule board. As a show window couple, they had kept track of each other's schedules on a calendar whiteboard. The board was filled with their schedules, with Jae-hee's written in blue and Yoo-jin's in black. The shared schedules were marked in red, but there was only a post-inauguration celebration a week ago. Even that couldn't be considered a schedule they've done together.

Looking at the schedule board, Jae-hee lowered her gaze. She shouldn't dwell on it any longer. She took out a bottle of Johnny Walker from the display cabinet in the living room. The Johnny Walker Blue Label, a wedding gift from her fellow professors, was her favorite whiskey. Jae-hee prepared an on-the-rocks drink, placing two ice cubes in a glass. She sat at the mini-bar in the kitchen and took a sip of the whisky.

The spacious house made Jae-hee feel uneasy. Despite living in the best house she had ever experienced, Jae-hee didn't particularly enjoy her own home. There was something about this house that seemed to dampen one's spirits. Jae-hee began thinking about her tasks for the next day at work. She had a three-hour lecture for undergraduate students, followed by a meeting with her mentee in the middle of it all... In the afternoon, she had a graduate student class scheduled. She pondered about what other assignments she needed to give, and in that moment, she chuckled at the memory of Soo-jin's plea to go easy on the assignments. Just then, she heard the sound of the door being unlocked. She could hear footsteps approaching, but Jae-hee didn't bother to go and see. After all, there was only one person who would be coming in.

"...there's a couple's party in a week... Is that okay?"

"...what time will it be?"

"It's at 7 o'clock... If it's too much, you don't have to come."

Seeing the entry "Department Meeting" on the schedule, Yoo-jin raised her head. Nevertheless, Jae-hee firmly replied.

"I'll make time for it."

"You don't have to."

"I'm okay with it, really."

In the suffocating silence, Jae-hee gave up on leisurely enjoying her drink. The ice remains unmelted as she quickly downed the strong liquor, then slowly rinsed the glass in the sink. Her brow furrowed, but soon she relaxed her forehead. The stillness showed no signs of leaving. She set the glass upside down and continued to gaze at Yoo-jin, who remained standing as if rooted to the spot. Yoo-jin also looked back at Jae-hee.

"After meeting with the professor, even if I leave as soon as possible, I'll be a little late. Is that okay?"

"...Mm."

"Is there a dress code?"

"Navy. They're business people. Don't feel pressured like last time."

"I think my wife is more pressured."

Yoo-jin recalled Jae-hee breaking out in a cold sweat dealing with political figures at a party celebrating her father's election, but Jae-hee shrugged it off. Jae-hee found it amusing that Yoo-jin, with a rigid face that seemed burdened more than her, gave her advice not to worry. However, as the effects of alcohol began to rise, Jae-hee felt the urge to vomit. She nodded and passed by Yoo-jin. Yoo-jin's gaze shifted to the graceful neckline that emerged through Jae-hee's evening gown. Captivated by the elegant line, Yoo-jin felt puzzled when Jae-hee suddenly stopped. When Jae-hee hesitated, Yoo-jin spoke first.

"...are you busy these days?"

"Why? Now you suddenly show interest in me?"

"...It's not like that."

About to say something, but swallowing her words, Jae-hee turned her back and headed towards the study. Observing Jae-hee's even slimmer figure today, Yoo-jin bit her lip once again. Before entering the study, Jae-hee, as always, spoke to Yoo-jin.

"Goodnight, honey."

"...you too, sleep well."

It's the only thing Jae-hee says warmly and not sarcastically. Despite saying she hates Yoojin, Jae-hee knows Yoojin's pain better than anyone, so she bids her good night and disappears.

* * * 

Yoo-jin missed her appointment because her thesis defense ran late, so she rushed to the meeting place two hours later, wondering if Jae-hee had already left. Worry overtook her excitement at the sight of a familiar back in the distance.

"Jae-hee!"

"…you're here?"

"Huff, huff... Why, why didn't you leave and waited? Look at you, so cold. What should we do? I'm really sorry, Jae-hee."

"Hi hi."

Jae-hee dragged Yoo-jin's hand across her cheek, the tip of her nose still red. As a faint warmth spread across her cheeks, Jae-hee looked at Yoo-jin and spoke softly.

"This is enough."

"...what?"

"This is enough, really~ I knew you would be late because of the evaluation. So, don't apologize."

"But, Jae-hee, I took up your time and made you wait in this cold... Aren't you mad?"

"Not at all."

"..."

"While I was waiting, it was nice to be able to think about you completely."

Jae-hee continued the unfamiliar conversation in a monotonous manner without any change in expression. To her, it was such a natural story that there was no reason to feel embarrassed.

"During that time, I fell even more in love with you."

"....it's strange to hear. Let's go, shall we? Let's grab a meal or something."

"Mm, let's go~"

The sight of the two of them leaving with their arms crossed was quite endearing. Yoo-jin looked at Jae-hee, who was smiling foolishly, with an affectionate gaze as if finding her adorable.

"....Ah shi-, what kind of dream is this...?"

Jae-hee impatiently muttered and ran a hand through her hair. The dream she had while taking a nap in the research lab, skipping lunch, was enough to annoy her. It brought back memories of their affectionate moments during their dating days. Jae-hee let out a sigh and buttoned up her loose blouse that she unbuttoned in her sleep. Then, she picked up the bolo tie placed on the table and tied it. The decorative pattern on the navy blue tie matched well with her navy suit.

This should be fine, I guess. Although she wasn't familiar with the strict rules of the formal party, Jae-hee thought that with her presentable appearance, she wouldn't embarrass herself in front of Yoo-jin and her father. She took another glance at her reflection in the mirror, reassuring herself.

Then, she brainstormed on how to quickly end the conversation with the department head. The department head, Professor Han, was a good person, but had a tendency to prolong discussions. Since she would keep seeing his face anyway, she wanted to finish it quickly without making him upset. Jae-hee put on her jacket and grabbed the materials for the department meeting, then left the research lab.

* * * 

"Well, for this semester, I propose organizing multiple small-scale academic conferences for our graduate students to enhance their skills..."

"...and specifically, gathering the master's programs from education graduate schools in the metropolitan area to create a separate seminar that will be held annually…"

"No, that's not it. This time, the Mayor of the capital city has expressed his commitment to promoting inter-university exchanges in the metropolitan area and providing support. So, how about utilizing that support to reduce the educational expenses?"

"I heard from my student recently that the research foundation specifically provides government-funded research support for educational fields. Perhaps we could consider utilizing that support instead…"

'Ah, darn it.'

It was already six o'clock. Thinking about rush hour, she should have left by now, but she didn't expect the department meeting to drag on. From a simple discussion about organizing an academic conference, it suddenly expanded into a discussion about receiving government funding for research. Jae-hee gave up hope as it felt like listening to a tedious wedding speech. She anxiously glanced at her watch. Ugh, darn it.

She's worried about Yoo-jin, whom she wanted to have nothing to worry about. When Jae-hee attended the previous gathering, she could clearly sense it. Despite their laughter and seemingly casual conversations, there were thorns in their words. It was a gathering of lowly people who casually belittle others with their sophisticated demeanor. Thinking about Yoo-jin, who could be hurt by the words of such people, Jae-hee smiled bitterly. Who am I worrying about right now? Nevertheless, she typed a message on her phone, intended for Yoo-jin, who was waiting for her.

[Wife: Looks like I'll be a bit late. You can go ahead without me.]

Yoo-jin glanced at her phone for a moment and then put it on hold. She calmly entered the party venue. Despite going alone, she felt no hesitation. Jae-hee would come, even if she was late, and Yoo-jin could manage on her own during that time. As she thought that, a charming man approached Yoo-jin.

"Yoo-jin."

"Ah, Oppa*."

*Older Brother (오빠) address by younger females (not exclusive to blood relatives) to an older male, showing respect and closeness.

"...how about sister-in-law?"

"She'll be here soon. That person has been quite busy lately."

Jae-joon nodded in response to Yoo-jin's answer. Despite having recently joined the management team, he exuded confidence and displayed remarkable prowess. Watching him navigate the business with the skill of a CEO with 20 years of experience sometimes sent shivers down Yoo-jin's spine.

‘…After all, she's a single-minded person who can even marry without love.'

"...she's busy these days because she's receiving support from Uncle at S University."

When Jae-joon mentioned Cheon-woo's story, Yoo-jin's eyebrows twitched. As she glared at him, Jae-joon shrugged his shoulders. Yoo-jin didn't want to feel uncomfortable discussing her father, so she quickly changed the subject to something else.

"What about Soo-hyun?"

"On a business trip to the U.S. right now..."

Soo-hyun was both Jae-joon's fiancée and Yoo-jin's friend. As a daughter from a prestigious national airline family, Su-hyun had entered the business world early on and established her position. Even though Jae-joon mentioned her business trip, there was a hint of regret in his words.

"Whether it's you or me, we're both without partners."

"...Jae-hee is coming right now, you know?"

"Are you confident?"

"Do I seem like I'm in the same position as you, without a partner?"

Jae-joon chuckled playfully. Despite being cousins, the two of them were quite close. It was partly because they worked in the same business group, but also because Jae-joon had been there to support Yoo-jin during her wandering days after the loss of her mother. Yoo-jin had developed a stronger attachment to her extended family, who cherished and protected her, after her mother's death. That's why she had first confided in Jae-joon about her feelings for Jae-hee.

As Jae-joon recalled Yoo-jin's voice, firmly asserting that she didn't love Jae-hee and it would be a loveless marriage, he couldn't help but laugh when he saw Yoo-jin anxiously waiting for Jae-hee. It was amusing to see her eagerly anticipating Jae-hee's arrival despite her previous confident claims.

"Still a kid."

"What?"

"Nevermind. There's something like that... Oh, I remember now. Mom mentioned that she wants to invite you and your spouse to this year's recital."

"Just give us the invitation, and we'll gladly attend. Especially because I know Jae-hee would enjoy it."

"Oh, Jae-hee always loved Mom's flute performances... That's great. I'll let her know."

"We'll adjust our schedule as well."

Yoo-jin remembered Jae-hee's frenzy over her aunt's flute performance. She couldn't forget the frozen expression on Jae-hee's face when they had a meal with her extended family before "that incident." Jae-hee couldn't believe that Park Hyun-hee, whom she had admired and listened to throughout her study abroad, turned out to be Yoo-jin's aunt as well. It was such a surprising revelation for her.

Yoo-jin remembered how Jae-hee had saved money for months during her study abroad in the United States to buy tickets for Park Hyun-hee's flute orchestra and collaboration performance. However, due to a dorm network failure, she had failed miserably in trying to secure tickets and ended up crying in disappointment. Perhaps Jae-hee thought Yoo-jin was unaware of her failed attempt, but Yoo-jin remembered it vividly. She remembered how she desperately tried to hold back her tears and hide her disappointment, not wanting her girlfriend to find out that she couldn't even get a single ticket. The image of her shoulders trembling as she suppressed her emotions would forever remain in her memory. Later on, watching the clip repeatedly on YouTube only intensified her bittersweet feelings.

Eventually, despite vowing not to contact her maternal aunt during her study abroad, Yoo-jin reached out to her. Upon receiving Yoo-jin's unexpected message, Hyun-hee was both surprised and delighted, offering her the best front-row seats. However, Yoo-jin, worried about being caught by Jae-hee, made a peculiar request for seats in the middle. Thanks to her thoughtful maternal aunt who provided the tickets, Yoo-jin was able to invite Jae-hee to attend the performance together. When asked where she had obtained the tickets, Yoo-jin had no answer, resorting to a fabricated lie about purchasing them on eBay. Despite the obvious falsehood, innocent Jae-hee was moved to tears. As Yoo-jin recalled that moment, she couldn't help but smile and cover her mouth, perplexing Jae-joon, who raised an eyebrow in curiosity.

'Why are you giggling?'

"Why? Is there something good?"

"Nothing."

What's the point? It was because of me that our once good relationship crumbled. Now, reminiscing about our past won't change anything. With Jae-joon's words, Yoo-jin snapped back to reality, scoffing and tucking her hair behind her ear. But still, it's her aunt's recital, so she'll obediently go along with it, Jae-hee will.

The number of people at the party continued to increase. As they were sharing more updates, Jae-joon moved to another spot upon hearing his secretary's words. He gestured apologetically to Yoo-jin, but she responded by saying it didn't matter and turned away calmly.

The reason for Jae-joon's departure was not difficult to infer. It was evident from the business-related conversation taking place during the party. Yoo-jin felt a surge of frustration but kept her composure, lifting her drink without showing any signs of agitation.

"...um."

The drink that was thought to be non-alcoholic actually contained strong alcohol. Yu-jin furrowed her brows and wiped her mouth with the tray of the passing waiter, who was holding cocktails. Secretary Soo-yeong asked.

"Are you okay, boss?"

"I'm okay."

Yoo-jin was not accustomed to alcohol. At most, she could handle a single can of beer, and anything beyond that would render her incapable of handling alcohol. In such gatherings, she had no choice but to swallow her discomfort and refrain from spitting out the alcohol. However, she began to feel dizzy. Knowing her own limits well, she would usually stick to non-alcoholic beverages at social events. But as the effects of the alcohol quickly spread, her head started to spin. Leaning on the table for support, Yoo-jin furrowed her brow. Her navy blue dress swayed slightly as she decided to step outside briefly to catch some fresh air.

"...ha."

The intoxication grew stronger. She felt a flush of heat spreading through her body. A cool breeze blew. It was strange how the day had been hot, but the evening turned chilly. Yoo-jin sighed, lamenting the unpredictable weather of autumn, as she gripped the balcony railing. Perhaps it would have been better to just let it all out, regardless of how undignified it may seem.

'When will Jae-hee come?'

I missed her sarcasm. Even though her words were distant, I knew it wasn't genuine. Yoo-jin smiled bitterly at the memory of Jae-hee. After 'that day,' Jae-hee had been sulking in an uncharacteristic manner, speaking in a distant tone, but her eyes were always filled with concern for me. It's ironic how she can't manage a single expression properly. Why does she have to suffer like this? She could just hurt me with her words alone, why does she have to speak and hurt herself as well?

Yoo-jin thought of Jae-hee. She was amazed by the unwavering love that Jae-hee had shown her, to the point where she wondered if such a person could truly exist. No, perhaps she was still thinking of Jae-hee, who would continue to love her even now.

Yoo-jin tried to sober up, but due to the unusual autumn breeze, she felt like she might catch a cold. Therefore, she quickly made her way to the party venue. Taking advantage of that moment, someone approached and spoke to her.

"President Ha!"

"Ah, Managing Director, hello."

The managing director from a subsidiary company approached and brushed off the chilliness. The person who initiated the conversation with Yoo-jin was a young executive who had recently been promoted. Yoo-jin recalled the list of executives she had recently skimmed through and gave a formal smile. He seemed overly enthusiastic, brimming with passion. Unable to resist, Yoo-jin subtly raised the corner of her mouth. Seeing her reaction, the executive felt assured that he had made a good impression on Yoo-jin and spoke with an excited expression on his face.

"Finally, I found you. I've been searching for a while to greet you."

"…ah."

"Ah, how about your wife…?"

"She got busy at school, she's on her way now."

"Ah~I see. By the way, President! We have recently launched a new brand in our logistics department, and I think it would be great to have it available at department stores as well!"

Ah, I hate this. Yoo-jin's brow furrowed slightly. She maintained a strict separation between work and socializing. She didn't like to talk about business under the guise of socializing.

Due to people who would blurt out irreversible words under the influence of alcohol or change their words by oral agreements, Yoo-jin worked only in the office and at the company. Yet, there is a manager who would casually discuss work matters without realizing it. As a subsidiary, they were receiving some consideration, so what more did they want? Moreover, when it came to selecting brands for department store partnerships, the focus was on Yoo-jin's vision as the CEO and the decisions of the board of directors, rather than favoring the subsidiary. How could she interrupt the off-topic conversation of the manager? It would have been easy to brush off such situations in normal circumstances, but it was not easy due to the intoxication.

In the chilly atmosphere, Yoo-jin wiped her arms as if brushing off the discomfort. With a strong desire to escape from that place, she sought out Jae-joon, the only person who could rescue her.

'Kim Jae-joon, where are you…ha…'

"So, what I mean is, I will go and meet the CEO of that brand! I will negotiate directly! Launching their products through our logistics…"

She felt dizzy. Yoo-jin's alcohol tolerance was terribly low, reaching its limit. Feeling that she couldn't take it anymore, she was about to abruptly cut off the conversation, even if it meant being rude. At that moment, someone's hand gently rested on Yoo-jin's shoulder.

"Honey."

"...?"

"Ah, hello!"

The person who pulled Yu-jin back from her precarious state and greeted her with a gentle smile was the person she had been waiting for all along.

"... you're here?"

"Nice to meet you. I'm Seon Jae-hee, a professor in the Department of Education at S University."

Seon Jae-hee's forehead was covered in sweat as they shook hands. The navy suit and bowtie accentuated their well-toned physique, which suited Jae-hee remarkably well. Yoo-jin's gaze lingered on the bowtie.

'So, you still have it.'

As she made her way from the school to the party venue, Jae-hee, who had filmed the movie "Fast & Furious" once, maintained a steady breath and gazed at Yoo-jin with a rather charming smile. It was a gaze of newlyweds filled with love that anyone could see.

"Honey, are you alright?"

"Huh?...Mm, I'm fine."

"Oh, are you feeling unwell?"

"Yes, she had a slight cold in the morning. Honey, it's cold, isn't it?"

Jae-hee quickly noticed Yoo-jin's pale complexion and skillfully lied, taking off her jacket and placing it over Yoo-jin's shoulders. The person they were conversing with remained unaware of Yoo-jin's fading complexion. Feeling sorry for Jae-hee's unwavering perceptiveness, Yoo-jin lowered her head. Jae-hee briefly shifted her gaze towards Jae-joon, who was standing at the center of the party venue, before turning to the executive and speaking.

"There's a person I need to greet, and I think I should take my wife with me... Would it be alright if we excuse ourselves?"

'A person I need to greet.' Even without saying it, the executive knew exactly who that person was. The only person in this place who was elevated to such a high status by being referred to with such respect by Jae-hee, the wife of the president of Howon Department Store, was none other than Jae-joon, the successor of Howon Group. The executive awkwardly smiled and nodded his head.

"Ah, yes! Of course. Let me get my business card first…"

"Secretary Choi?"

"Yes, Mr. Managing Director, please give it to me."

While watching Soo-yeong gracefully take the Managing Director's business card upon her own words, Jae-hee flashed a beautiful smile to the Managing Director and walked away with Yoo-jin. Unaware that the Managing Director froze like a statue in response to Jae-hee's smile, the two of them casually moved further apart. With Yoo-jin swaying due to her high heels, Jae-hee held onto Yoo-jin's shoulder for support. In a soft voice that only Yoo-jin could hear, Jae-hee spoke.

"...did you drink alcohol?"

"…by mistake."

"Are you feeling dizzy?"

"...Mm."

Dog nosed, my Jae-hee.  Yoo-jin faintly chuckled at Jae-hee's resemblance to an alcohol-detecting dog. Jae-hee's brows furrowed as she observed Yoo-jin's pale face and smiling expression. "Why are you laughing when you look so sickly?" Jae-hee asked slowly, without sarcasm.

"Let's greet Jae-joon oppa and go straight away."

"No, we need to stay longer…"

It's too early to leave the venue now. It seemed appropriate, at least for a couple more hours, to maintain the formality. Especially for Yoo-jin, whose previous marriage attracted a lot of attention from those around, it was important not to leave this place too early.

"...hmm."

Yoo-jin lowered her head in response to Jae-hee's sigh. Was she angry? Yoo-jin's confident and audacious demeanor seemed to have vanished, and now she was left with constantly gauging Jae-hee's reactions.

"...let's stay a little longer and then leave. If you really can't bear it anymore, just let me know. If that happens, we'll truly leave, okay?"

"...Mm."

Yoo-jin leaned on Jae-hee a bit more. Jae-hee's gentle touch, which carefully embraced her, felt so sincere that it didn't seem like an act or pretense.

"I'm sorry for being stubborn."

"Where did that personality go? If you're going to boldly leave, then be true to yourself until the end."

When Yoo-jin heard the sarcastic tone she had missed, she smiled softly.

As Yoo-jin's eyes finally softened after enduring to the limit, Jae-hee wasted no time and took Yoo-jin out with her. Jae-hee bit her lip and pushed Yoo-jin into the passenger seat of her car. She entrusted Yoo-jin's's car to Secretary Choi and started the engine of her own car.

After securely fastening Yoo-jin's seatbelt and adjusting her jacket to cover her, Jae-hee carefully checked if the heater was working properly. Then, she slowly started the car. With a smooth start, Yoo-jin turned her head towards Jae-hee.

"... Jae-hee, are you angry?"

"You must be really drunk, even caring about my feelings."

"Today…thanks for coming."

"...it's because we're a couple."

Though, just a Show Window. Jae-hee swallowed her words and turned the steering wheel. Inside the car, where warm air from the heater was flowing, it didn't shake much even with Jae-hee's handling. Perhaps it was because of the good car, or maybe it was Jae-hee's considerate driving. Yoo-jin thought it was the latter. It was clear that Jae-hee loved her. No matter how much they argued, the fact that Jae-hee loved her would never change.

"...sometimes, whenever you do that…"

Yoo-jin muttered under her breath and blurted out the thoughts she had been trying to keep to herself.

"...I still feel like you love me."

"You're quite drunk, aren't you?"

Jae-hee let out a dry cough, attempting to cut off the conversation. She had a feeling that she would regret it if she listened further. Since Yoo-jin started speaking, Jae-hee's emotions had been in turmoil. She didn't want to hear it from Yoo-jin's mouth. That she still loved her.

"...do you have a lover?"

"...do you?"

To ask about each other's lovers as a newly married couple, Jae-hee couldn't help but chuckle. The tense tone in her voice subsided.

"No, nothing like that."

"Is that so?"

"Don't get caught by me, Ha Yoo-jin."

"I have no one…so there's nothing to catch."

Jae-hee bit her lip, remembering Yoo-jin from the elevator a few days ago. It's ridiculous how quickly I remember and react to your every word, and how fucking reassuring you are. Like a paranoid person, Jae-hee couldn't stop thinking about Yoo-jin. Jae-hee gripped the steering wheel tightly with trembling hands. The drunken Yoo-jin began to spew out her inner thoughts unfiltered.

"...you resent me, don't you?"

"..."

"Am I hateful? Am I unlikable?"

"..."

"It's because of me... I'm sorry. I'm sorry for holding onto you like this."

"Yoo-jin."

"..."

"Weren't you the one living an unhappy life because of me?"

Jae-hee, despite speaking gently, couldn't contain the boiling emotions within and bit her lip. Yoo-jin's drinking habit was a way of expressing the sincerity that she had kept in her heart. That's why Jae-hee didn't want to listen to such words from Yoo-jin. She didn't want to accept an apology from Yoo-jin, who had spat out venomous words while pleading. Moreover, she disliked even herself for being swayed by just a few words. Jae-hee cut her off abruptly and said.

"So, don't apologize."

Tears streamed down Yoo-jin's cheeks, staining her face. Her gaze moved from her own cheek to Jae-hee's tie, the one she had given to Jae-hee during their study abroad days, as an apology for making her wait for her. She thought that she would have discarded it, noticing how she no longer wore it with the same joy and enthusiasm after their marriage. But there it was, still present. You foolish person, you still love someone like me even when I act so poorly. Really, you're a foolish fool. Watching Yoo-jin fall asleep with an apology on her lips, Jae-hee let out a sigh. With eyes reddened, she stared ahead and bit her lip as if chewing on her thoughts.

"...bad woman."

Apologizing to me, who's making your life miserable. There couldn't be a more contradictory statement. Ha Yoo-jin, you are truly a bad woman.

* * * 

Jae-hee slowly drove around the neighborhood where their newlywed house was located. Hoping that Yoo-jin would wake up at a suitable time, but perhaps due to the strong drinks consumed tonight, she didn't show any signs of stirring. Resigned to the fact, Jae-hee slowly entered the parking lot and parked the car. Turning off the engine, Jae-hee turned her head to look at Yoo-jin. She reached out and gently stroked her cheek. It was a familiar display of affection, but now it had become something that could only be done when she was asleep.

"Yoo-jin…what should we do?"

Jae-hee muttered to herself, as if delivering a soliloquy on stage, expressing her emotions.

"...have you never loved me even once?"

Have you never loved me even once? Just once would have been enough for me. Have you never loved me, not even once?

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