The Finale

Chapter 20

4 months later...

The office was quiet, a sanctuary of muted tones and understated warmth. The faint hum of the air conditioning underscored the ticking of the wall clock, a steady rhythm that seemed to amplify the weight of Mingyu's thoughts. He sat stiffly in the chair across from Dr. Yoon, his hands clasped so tightly his knuckles whitened. His posture was composed, but the slight tremor in his fingers betrayed the chaos beneath.

Four months. That was how long he'd been sitting in this very chair, week after week, digging through layers of grief and guilt. Yet even now, as he exhaled a shaky breath, it still felt like he was prying open a wound that refused to heal.

Dr. Yoon watched him with that familiar, steady gaze—a mixture of patience and understanding. "Mingyu," he began, his voice calm but firm, "you've been coming here for months. Today feels... different. What's changed?"

Mingyu hesitated, his gaze dropping to his lap. The silence stretched between them, heavy and fragile, as if the wrong word could shatter it. When he finally spoke, his voice was rough, almost a whisper. "I fell in love."

He huffed out a soft laugh, one devoid of humor, as the corners of his lips quirked upward in a faint, self-deprecating smile. "It sounds absurd, doesn't it? Ridiculous, even. Falling in love while I'm still..." His words trailed off, his hand gesturing vaguely, as though the enormity of his emotions was too much to contain.

Dr. Yoon leaned forward slightly, his pen poised but forgotten. "Love is never ridiculous, Mingyu," he said gently. "It's one of the most powerful forces we have. Tell me about her."

A long pause followed, the kind that made the air feel heavier. Mingyu closed his eyes briefly, as though summoning her image in his mind. When he opened them again, something shifted in his expression—a flicker of warmth breaking through the shadows.

"Her name is Lisa," he said, his voice softening. "She's... persistent. Stubborn, really. But kind. Too kind, sometimes. She sees light in places I've spent years convincing myself were dark." His brows furrowed, and he shook his head slightly. "She has no idea how much she's changed me. How much I want to deserve her."

Dr. Yoon tilted his head. "Do you feel you don't deserve her?"

Mingyu's jaw tightened, and he leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "It's not that simple," he said, his tone laced with frustration. "You already know about my past, doctor. About Somi. My mom. I couldn't save them. And that failure... it's like a shadow. How can I let someone love me when I can't even forgive myself?"

The words hung heavy in the air, mingling with the sound of the clock ticking away the seconds.

Dr. Yoon's voice cut through the stillness, steady and measured. "You've carried this burden for so long, Mingyu, but guilt isn't the same as responsibility. You didn't cause their illnesses. You didn't choose their deaths. You've been punishing yourself for something you couldn't control."

Mingyu's breath hitched, and for a moment, he looked utterly lost. "But I should've done more. I should've tried harder..."

"You did everything you could," Dr. Yoon said, his tone resolute. "You're not grieving because you failed them. You're grieving because you loved them. That love doesn't have to end in guilt. It can transform into something else—something that allows you to live again."

Mingyu's shoulders sagged, the words striking a deep chord. He leaned back, his hands gripping the armrests as if they were the only thing keeping him grounded. "I want to let go," he admitted, his voice cracking under the weight of those words. It was raw, like an open wound he'd spent years trying to ignore. "I want to stop being afraid. For her. For my daughter. For myself."

The confession left his chest hollow, his breathing shallow as if he had just torn something vital from himself. It wasn't just a desire he was voicing—it was a plea, desperate and unrelenting.

He swallowed hard, his throat burning with the emotions he could no longer contain. "I've carried this for so long, it's like I don't know how to be without it. The guilt, the fear—it's become a part of me. I let it define me. I thought... if I let it go, I'd lose what little of them I still have left." His voice faltered, and his gaze dropped, shame flickering across his face.

Dr. Yoon's tone remained steady, cutting through the haze of Mingyu's turmoil. "And yet, here you are, saying you want to let go. That's not weakness, Mingyu. That's strength. But the question remains—how do you begin to let go?"

The words hung in the air, heavy with expectation.

Mingyu's breath hitched as he struggled to meet the doctor's gaze. The room seemed to shrink, the walls closing in around him as the clock ticked louder, faster. But then, something shifted. The vulnerability in his eyes—so raw it was almost unbearable—transformed into something steadier, sharper.

"By forgiving myself," he said finally, his voice trembling yet resolute, as if testing the weight of the idea for the first time. He clenched his fists, not out of frustration but determination. "I've been running for so long... running from myself, from the truth. But Lisa... she stopped me. She refused to let me keep running."

His lips quirked into a faint smile, bittersweet and full of longing. "She didn't care about the walls I built. She just kept finding ways to tear them down. I didn't want to deserve her—I couldn't let myself—but she made me want to try. She begged me, in her quiet way, to let her in, to be part of her world. And for the first time..." His voice caught, his breath trembling. "For the first time, I want it too. I want her. I want the life she sees for me. I want to live—not just for her or my daughter, but for myself."

Dr. Yoon's expression softened, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "It sounds like you've found something worth fighting for."

Mingyu nodded, the weight on his chest loosening ever so slightly. His heart thudded painfully, but it wasn't fear—it was hope. "I don't want to lose her," he said, his voice quiet but laced with fierce resolve. "And I don't want to lose myself anymore."

He sat back, his shoulders finally relaxing as he released a shaky breath. For the first time, the silence in the room wasn't suffocating.

The clock continued to tick, but its rhythm no longer felt oppressive. It wasn't counting down—it was moving forward, just as he was. And for the first time, Mingyu allowed himself to believe that maybe, just maybe, the future was worth fighting for.

Because on the other side of this journey, he knew Lisa was waiting. And he was ready to meet her there.

The early morning sunlight filtered into Lisa's small but cozy apartment as she sat at her desk, her laptop open. Her heart thumped erratically as she refreshed the Ministry of Justice website for what felt like the hundredth time. Her fingers hovered over the touchpad, trembling slightly.

Then it appeared.

Her name.

Lisa Bruschweiler.

The air seemed to still for a moment as the realization washed over her. She blinked, her vision blurring slightly with tears. A slow, incredulous smile spread across her face. She had done it. All the sleepless nights, grueling study sessions, and moments of doubt—none of it had been in vain.

Her first instinct was to call him. Mingyu.

Her hand reached for her phone, her thumb hovering over his contact. But just as she was about to press "call," a notification flashed across her screen.

It was a news alert.

Mock News Article

Mingyu Kim Takes the Helm at KMG Holdings
South Korea – April 13th

In a landmark announcement today, Kim Mingyu has officially assumed the role of CEO at KMG Holdings, one of South Korea's premier conglomerates specializing in luxury resorts, retail malls, and golf clubs. This transition marks the beginning of a new era for the company, as Mingyu takes over from his father, Kim Sangmin, who led KMG to its position of prominence over the last three decades.

Adding to the excitement, KMG Holdings revealed a strategic partnership with Jeon Enterprises, globally recognized for their elite wineries and expansive distribution network.

"Mr. Kim Mingyu has demonstrated extraordinary vision and commitment, making him the perfect candidate to lead KMG into its next chapter," said Jeon Hanseok, Chief Marketing Officer of Jeon Enterprises. Hanseok also announced that he would be stepping down from his position, with his daughter, Jeon Jongseo, approved to take over the role by CEO Jeon Jungkook. Jeon Enterprises, often referred to as a family dynasty, has a strict tradition of leadership passing exclusively through bloodlines.

This leadership transition follows months of speculation about Mingyu's preparedness to assume the mantle, especially after his extended absence from South Korea to pursue his passion as a promising young doctor in Barcelona. However, today's announcement solidifies Mingyu's reputation as a formidable business leader, determined to uphold his family's legacy.

The partnership between KMG Holdings and Jeon Enterprises is expected to redefine the luxury hospitality landscape across Asia and beyond, combining KMG's exceptional expertise in high-end experiences with Jeon Enterprises' unparalleled reputation in the global wine industry.

With Kim Mingyu at the helm, all eyes are on KMG Holdings as it embarks on this ambitious new chapter.

Visit: https//:mocknewsarticle.sk.com

Lisa's smile faltered as she read the headline. Her thumb swiped up, scrolling through the article. There he was, looking impeccable in a dark tailored suit, his expression unreadable but commanding.

"Finally," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. She felt a flicker of pride for him, but it was quickly overshadowed by something else—hesitation.

He was busy now. His world was bigger than ever, filled with boardrooms, partnerships, and responsibilities. And who was she? Just a woman sitting in her tiny apartment, clutching onto a moment of personal triumph.

Her phone screen dimmed as her finger hovered over the lock button. "He doesn't need to know right now," she whispered, setting the device down with a sigh. The triumph she felt only moments ago now felt subdued.

She called her mom instead.

"¡Mi hija aprobó su examen de abogacía!" her mother squealed over the phone, unfazed by her work environment. Cheers and claps erupted in the background, likely from her colleagues.

Lisa couldn't help but laugh, her heart easing with warmth. "Gracias, mamá," she whispered, blinking back tears.

Lisa didn't have much time to dwell on her conflicted feelings. By early evening, the sound of excited voices and a jangling doorbell shattered the stillness of her apartment.

"Surprise!" Minnicha burst through the door first, holding a cluster of balloons, followed by Niki and Jihyo, balancing a cake in one hand and a bottle of champagne in the other.

"Did you really think we'd let you mope alone after this?" Niki teased, pulling Lisa into a tight hug.

Jihyo placed the cake on the table with a dramatic flourish. It read, "Congratulations, Esquire Lisa!" in wobbly pink icing.

Lisa laughed, touched. "You guys really didn't have to do this."

"Oh, hush." Jihyo rolled her eyes, pulling her into a side hug. "Congrats to us, partner," she teased with a wink.

Lisa threw her arms around her. "We did it! All those sleepless nights, energy drinks, and near-heart palpitations. Totally worth it."

Minnicha clinked an imaginary glass in the air. "A toast to both of you. And to all the coffee you consumed that probably shaved five years off your lives."

As the laughter bubbled through the room, Lisa felt lighter. For the first time that day, her success truly felt like hers to savor.

Before she could bask in the moment any longer, Nicha chimed in excitedly. "We already reserved a table at the barbecue place. Everyone's waiting! Come on, let's go!"

Lisa barely had a chance to protest before her friends were dragging her out the door. There was no time to change, no time to think—just the thrill of being swept up in their excitement. Before she knew it, they were stepping into the lively, open-air restaurant.

The air was thick with the rich aroma of sizzling meat and the hum of boisterous conversations. Lisa and her friends settled around a long table, their voices quickly joining the cheerful din as beer glasses clinked and exaggerated stories flew across the table.

Namjoon, already a few shots deep, raised his glass with a dramatic flourish. "To Lisa and Jihyo, our badass lawyers! You're the reason my parking tickets might finally get dismissed."

The table erupted into laughter and cheers. "Don't drag us into your mess, Namjoon," Lisa teased, clinking her glass against his.

Jaehyun leaned back in his chair, smirking. "How does it feel to be officially smarter than all of us?"

Lisa laughed. "Exhausting. I wouldn't recommend it."

Jihyo grinned. "That's right. We're charging all of you for every second of our time from now on."

The banter continued, playful jabs and boisterous laughter filling the space. Lisa soaked it all in, momentarily forgetting her earlier doubts.

But as the night wore on, the heat of the grill and the chatter became overwhelming. Lisa excused herself for fresh air, stepping into the cool night.

That's when she saw him— her first love.

Song stood a few feet away, leaning casually against the wall with his phone pressed to his ear. His voice was soft but serious, likely speaking to one of his younger brothers. When he hung up, his eyes met Lisa's, a flicker of recognition crossing his face. He gave her a small, almost sheepish smile.

She hadn't expected to see him tonight of all nights. Song, the man who had once filled her world with light and warmth, now stood before her like a shadow of the past.

Lisa's heart clenched, the memories rushing back in vivid detail. He was a year older than her, and they had become friends through Jihyo, whose family had been close to his. Both children of Korean immigrants in Spain, they bonded over shared cultural experiences and the unique pressures of being caught between two worlds.

Lisa had fallen for him before she even realized it. He was a gentleman, thoughtful and sensitive, the kind of person who noticed when she felt out of place and did everything he could to make her feel like she belonged. Sometimes, she thought he felt the same. He'd let things slip—a compliment here, a wistful look there—that hinted at something deeper.

But Lisa had been wrong.

Sure, he had liked her—but not enough to pursue her. The truth shattered her the day she found out he already had a girlfriend in Seoul, someone he had returned to after graduating with his master's in legal practice. He left her without an explanation, high and dry, disappearing from her life like a fleeting dream. The ghosting that followed felt like salt in the wound.

And now, after all this time, here he was.

Lisa took a breath, steadying herself before breaking the silence. "Didn't think I'd see you here," she said, her voice light but laced with curiosity.

"Jihyo insisted," Song replied, flicking his cigarette into a nearby ashtray. "She said it was a big night."

She nodded, unsure of what to say. The air between them was heavy with unspoken words, a bittersweet mix of nostalgia and regret.

Finally, Song broke the silence, his voice quieter now. "You've done well, Lisa. Passing the bar... moving forward. I knew you would."

"Thanks." Lisa glanced down, scuffing the toe of her shoe against the pavement. "What about you? Are you okay?"

He let out a bitter laugh, running a hand through his hair. "Not really. But I'll get there. I just—" He paused, exhaling sharply. "I wanted to say I'm sorry. For everything. For leaving the way I did. For ghosting you."

Lisa's chest tightened, but she kept her voice steady. "You were a jerk," she said, her words blunt but free of malice. "But I think we both needed time to figure things out."

A year ago, she might have asked him the question that haunted her: Why her? Why not me? But now, even if he answered, it wouldn't change a thing. Time had dulled the edges of her pain, replacing them with a quiet understanding.

Song smiled faintly, though it didn't reach his eyes. "Maybe. But it doesn't change the fact that I messed up. You deserved better, Lisa."

She met his gaze, her expression soft but resolute. "What's done is done. We've both moved on. And... I'm glad we can still be friends."

His chuckle was tinged with frustration and resignation. "I hope he knows how lucky he is."

Lisa smiled faintly, her heart swelling with an unexpected mix of gratitude and closure. "Thank you, Song. Really."

As they stood there, the chilly night air wrapping around them, the chapter of their shared past finally closed. Not with lingering pain, but with a quiet, mutual understanding. This is what she needed the most the moment he came back again, though it had taken longer than she ever imagined, but the weight lifted from her chest, leaving her feeling lighter, freer.

Mingyu's office was a reflection of his personality—sleek, professional, and meticulously organized. The dark wooden desk stood prominently against the backdrop of a floor-to-ceiling window that framed a breathtaking view of the city skyline. Stacks of files were arranged with clinical precision, and the room itself was minimalist in design: muted gray walls, a single abstract painting hanging above the desk, and a small bonsai tree sitting on a corner table, its leaves perfectly trimmed.

Wonwoo was perched casually on the edge of the desk, his tie loosened and a cup of coffee in hand. Jongseo sat in one of the leather chairs, flipping through a digital presentation on her tablet. Mingyu was buried in a stack of documents, his brow furrowed in concentration, the rhythm of his pen scratching across paper the only sound in the room.

"Do you ever stop working, or do you sleep here too?" Wonwoo's voice broke the silence, his smirk evident even without looking at him.

Mingyu didn't look up from his papers, his voice dry and laced with the usual indifference. "Unlike you, I have responsibilities."

Wonwoo's smirk deepened as he gestured at the pristine office. "Right, responsibilities. Like making sure your desk is always perfect? It's almost scary how neat this place is."

Jongseo, eyes still glued to her tablet, casually dropped Lisa's name into the conversation. "Speaking of responsibilities, heard anything from Ms. Babysitter slash Lisa lately?"

Mingyu's pen paused for a fraction of a second, but he quickly resumed his writing, his gaze never leaving the page. He feigned indifference. "Why would I? She's busy with her own life."

Wonwoo exchanged a quick, knowing glance with Jongseo, their smirks shared in the unspoken understanding. "Well, Namjoon told me she passed the bar exam. Apparently, there was a big celebration in Barcelona. Nicha and the others went all out."

Mingyu froze for just a split second, his hand stilling on the page before he resumed scribbling something in his notebook. His voice was casual, controlled. "That's good for her. She worked hard for it."

Jongseo tilted her head slightly, observing him with a sly smile. "Good for her? That's all you're going to say? No congratulations? No 'I'm proud of you'? Seems a little... out of character for you."

Wonwoo leaned in a little closer, his teasing tone sharper now. "You're acting way too calm about this. Don't tell me you're not even a little bit proud?"

Mingyu finally looked up, his expression guarded, his gaze meeting theirs with a hint of irritation. "What do you want me to say? She doesn't need me to celebrate for her. She's doing fine on her own."

Jongseo raised an eyebrow, her smile widening. "Fine on her own? That's a bit cold, even for you. Are you sure it's not something else? Maybe... I don't know... you're afraid to call her because it'll mean admitting how much you care?"

Wrong. Because if he tried, he might book a plane ticket and fly back to her—and then what? He'd be back to square one.

Mingyu leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms, his posture defensive. "You two have too much free time if this is what you're thinking about. Lisa's success is hers. I don't need to make it about me."

Wonwoo snickered, clearly enjoying Mingyu's discomfort. "Right. Because you never make anything about you. Totally believable."

Jongseo grinned, clearly not backing down. "Maybe you should call her, just to say congratulations. It's not like she'd think you're making it about you."

The teasing subsided as both of them returned to their work, leaving Mingyu alone in the quiet room. He glanced out the window, his thoughts drifting to Lisa. His phone sat on the desk, the faintest trace of her name visible on the screen from a recent call log.

He missed her, more than he cared to admit, but he knew better than to act on it. Not yet. It wasn't the right time.

He leaned back in his swivel chair, a soft smile tugging at the corner of his lips, his gaze softening. Deep down, he was incredibly proud of her—more than he could say.

Just as he was about to return to work, the quiet hum of Mingyu's office was abruptly broken by the soft ping of his phone. Glancing at the screen, his father's name appeared. Without hesitation, he pressed the button to answer, already knowing what was coming.

"Mingyu," his father's voice boomed from the other end, clipped and stern. "I want to talk."

Mingyu, ever composed, immediately reached for the intercom. "Cancel my next meeting," he instructed his assistant. "I'll be heading to my father's estate."

The journey felt longer than usual, his thoughts a tangled mess. He knew what awaited him—the familiar, imposing silence of his father's estate.

Mingyu entered the grand home, the air heavy with authority, its vastness almost oppressive. The room was draped in dark oak paneling, cold and elegant. His father's desk, solid and imposing, sat at the center of the room, surrounded by shelves of legal tomes and awards. A pair of leather armchairs faced one another, a delicate tea set arranged on the low table between them. The presence of his father, seated at the desk, was as commanding as ever.

His father didn't look up as Mingyu entered. The scratch of a pen on paper was the only sound in the room.

"You're late," his father's voice was as sharp as ever.

Mingyu didn't flinch. He walked calmly to the chair across from his father, lowering himself into it. "I was finishing a proposal for a client."

His father set the pen down slowly, folding his hands over the legal document in front of him. His sharp gaze shifted to Mingyu, piercing. "And yet you find time for this. What is it now? More defiance? Another refusal to uphold the family's expectations?"

The legal documents on his father's desk were of particular importance. One was related to his daughter, The papers were part of the ongoing legal process to secure her parental rights, not just in Spain, but here in South Korea as well. Beside those documents was a transaction record. It was a payment made in Spain. It was meant for someone he trusted to keep an eye on Lisa's safety. The updates he was receiving on Lisa's whereabouts, her movements, so that even if he's faraway he's making sure she's okay and that's all wrapped up in this network of silent transactions.

Mingyu's jaw tightened, but his tone remained steady. "It's about Eunseo. And Lisa."

The mention of Lisa caught his father's attention. His lips curled faintly at the edges. "Ahh, Lisa. That young lawyer-to-be who took it upon herself to claim my belongings from a thief in the streets of Spain."

Mingyu's eyes widened, caught off guard. "You know her?"

His father nodded, leaning back in his chair. "Yes. She didn't know who I was, and yet she treated me with kindness. Not many would offer help to an old man shouting for help in a foreign language. It was amusing to see."

For a moment, his father's tone softened, but it quickly regained its usual coldness. "But kindness alone does not make her suitable for you, Mingyu. She is a distraction from your responsibilities."

Mingyu's expression darkened. "Lisa isn't a distraction. She's someone I care about. Someone who has proven her worth in ways that you refuse to see."

His father's gaze turned icy, the air between them charged with tension. "Worth? What worth? A woman without stature, without connections—how will she stand beside you? Do you think your feelings are enough to shield her from the scrutiny she will face?"

Mingyu stood up, his voice calm but firm. "If standing by her means facing scrutiny, then I will. She's worth it."

His father's eyes hardened. "You speak as if you've already decided. Are you prepared to fight for her, even if it means losing everything else? Or will you falter the moment things become inconvenient, just as you did when you lost your mother and sister?"

Mingyu took a deep breath, his tone softening only slightly, but his resolve unwavering. "This isn't just about Lisa. It's about Eunseo. I need her parental rights secured—not just in Spain, but here in South Korea as well. I promised Somi I'd take care of her daughter, and I intend to keep that promise."

His father's face shifted, a rare flicker of emotion breaking through his stoic mask. "Somi... She was stubborn, like you. Always fighting for what she believed in, even when it cost her dearly."

He exhaled sharply and leaned forward. "Do you understand what you're asking for? Legalizing Eunseo's papers means opening a door for her biological father to contest your claim. You'll face legal battles, public scrutiny, and the possibility of losing her. Are you ready for that?"

Mingyu's gaze was unwavering. "I am. I won't let anyone take her away. She's my daughter, in every way that matters. And I'll do whatever it takes to protect her."

A long silence stretched between them. His father regarded him for a moment, as if weighing the sincerity of his words. Finally, he nodded, the faintest glimmer of approval in his eyes. "Very well. I'll have my legal team look into the process. But don't mistake this for my approval of your choices."

As Mingyu turned to leave, his father's voice stopped him, softer than it had been before, almost reflective. "Lisa may have captivated my respect with her kindness, but respect doesn't mean acceptance. You'll need to prove to me—and to everyone else—that she belongs in your world."

Mingyu paused at the door, his back straight. His voice, steady as ever, echoed through the room. "I don't need her to fit into my world. I'll build one with her."

1 year after...

The soft golden light of the setting sun bathed the countryside in a warm glow as Lisa stood by the window of her childhood home in Cudillero. The gentle hum of voices filled the air—her mom's joyful laugh, her relatives exchanging stories, and Minnicha teasing Jihyo about her choice of dessert.

Niki's voice rang out from the kitchen. "Lisa, stop daydreaming and help us set the table!"

Lisa smiled, shaking off her wandering thoughts. "Coming!"

As she stepped into the dining room, her mom greeted her with a radiant smile, holding a tray of empanadas. "Mi hija, you've done so well for yourself. This is all because of you."

"Don't start crying now, mamá," Lisa teased, though her own eyes threatened to mist. She turned to her friends, who were busy helping.

"Jihyo, you're worse than me in the kitchen," Minnicha quipped, narrowly dodging a playful slap.

"Excuse me?" Jihyo shot back, holding a wooden spoon like a weapon. "I passed my bar exam, not culinary school!"

Laughter filled the room, and Lisa's heart felt lighter, though a pang of longing crept in. She leaned against the counter, letting the chatter and love surround her, yet her thoughts strayed far away.

Her gaze shifted to the hills in the distance, where the sky blushed hues of orange and pink. She could almost hear his deep, teasing voice in her head. "We should visit Cudillero together someday," she had told him once. "You need to meet my family."

But now, it felt impossible. He was thousands of miles away, consumed by his responsibilities, and she was here, surrounded by love yet missing him with an ache that wouldn't fade.

"Lisa," her mother's voice brought her back. "What are you doing? Come, the candles won't light themselves."

Lisa chuckled, wiping the corner of her eye discreetly. "On it, mamá."

As the festivities carried on, Lisa found herself retreating to the porch for a moment of solitude. The cool evening breeze kissed her skin as she leaned on the railing, looking out into the quiet countryside. The voices inside faded into the background, replaced by the chirping of crickets.

A soft giggle broke her thoughts, faint but familiar.

"Eunseo?" she murmured, startled. She turned around, only to see a tiny figure darting toward her. Before she could process it, small arms wrapped around her waist.

"Eunseo!" Lisa gasped, kneeling to meet the little girl at eye level. "What are you doing here?"

"I came to see you!" Eunseo grinned, her excitement spilling over.

Lisa blinked, still processing, when a deeper voice from the shadows made her freeze.

"She insisted we come, and honestly, I couldn't wait any longer."

Her head whipped around, and there he was. Mingyu stepped into the light, a bouquet of lilies in hand, his presence as commanding as ever.

"I'm home, mama," he teased, his lips quirking into a playful smile.

Tears filled Lisa's eyes as she stood, the disbelief giving way to overwhelming emotion. Without hesitation, she closed the distance between them, throwing her arms around his neck.

"What took you so long?" she cried, her voice breaking between laughter and sobs.

Mingyu's arms wrapped around her, pulling her close, his grip firm as if he feared she'd disappear. "I'm here now. That's all that matters."

Behind them, Eunseo giggled, and Lisa's family watched in awe from the doorway. Lisa's mom, ever the matriarch, clapped her hands gently to gather everyone's attention.

"Inside, all of you," she said with a knowing smile. "Let them have their moment."

Minnicha scooped up Eunseo, whispering, "Let's find some cake, hmm?" The group dispersed, leaving Lisa and Mingyu alone under the soft glow of the porch light.

Lisa pulled back slightly, her hands cupping his face. "Have you been okay? Were you eating well? How long will you stay here? Is everything okay with Eunseo? How about your company in Korea—"

He silenced her with a kiss, tender yet firm, grounding her in that moment. Her questions melted away as her eyes fluttered shut, her body relaxing in his arms.

When they broke apart, he rested his forehead against hers, "I love you."

The words slipped from his lips, low and steady, but they thundered in her chest. For a moment, she froze, her tears blurring the world until all she could see was him. Then a soft laugh escaped her, trembling with disbelief and joy, as she cradled his face in her hands. Her thumbs brushed over the planes of his cheeks, as if trying to memorize every inch of him.

"También te amo, mi amor," she whispered, her voice cracking under the weight of her emotions.

In those three words, everything she'd been holding onto—the fear, the longing, the unanswered questions—finally unraveled. The endless nights of uncertainty, the push and pull of emotions, the shadows of secrets and pain—they dissolved, leaving nothing but light. It was as if the universe had stopped for them, aligning every star to bring them here, to this moment.

He reached for her, his touch as familiar as it was electric, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. His dark eyes held hers, a storm of unspoken promises and unwavering devotion swirling in their depths. It wasn't just affection or admiration—it was love, raw and undeniable. A fucking goner.

"I can't wait to meet your family, mi amor," he murmured, his voice low and rich, his mouth curving into a rare, genuine smile that made her heart skip.

Lisa blinked, startled, his words catching her off guard. "You... remembered?"

A soft chuckle escaped him, laced with warmth. His fingers lingered against her skin as he tucked another loose strand behind her ear, the gesture intimate and tender.

"How could I not?" he said, his voice dipping lower, steady and sincere. "Every little thing you've ever said—whether it was silly, profound, or something you thought I'd forget—I've held onto it. Every word, Lisa-yah. You're in everything I do, everything I think. You're the only thing I want to carry with me, no matter where I go."

Her breath hitched, her chest tightening as if it couldn't contain the overwhelming swell of emotions. "You... you mean all of that?"

He leaned in closer, their foreheads nearly touching. The world seemed to fall silent around them as his gaze locked onto hers, unwavering and resolute.

"I don't just mean it," he said, his voice a whisper that carried the weight of a thousand truths. "I live for it. I've memorized every detail of you—the way you laugh, the way you fight, the way you pretend not to care when I know you do. Lisa, I've loved you since before I even realized it, and I'll keep loving you for the rest of my life."

Her lips trembled as she whispered, "You promise?"

"I swear it." His voice softened, but there was a fierce possessiveness that lingered, steady and unyielding. "You're not getting rid of me, Lisa. Not now, not ever. Even if you tried to run, I'd chase you to the ends of the earth. You're mine, Lisa. Completely."

Her heart stuttered at his words, her breath hitching as her cheeks warmed. She barely found her voice to whisper back, "And you're mine."

His grin spread slow and deliberate, igniting a wildfire in her chest. He tilted her chin upward, his fingers firm but reverent, forcing her to meet his gaze. His voice dropped, thick with emotion. "Say it again," he demanded, his smile boyish, but his eyes burned with an unrelenting intensity that sent a shiver down her spine.

"You're mine," she whispered again, the words trembling on her lips but sure.

The words were all he needed. His expression darkened with unrestrained need, his lips quirking into a wicked smirk that made her knees weak. "Damn right I am," he growled before claiming her mouth in a bruising kiss, his lips pressing hard and desperate against hers.

The kiss wasn't gentle—it was raw, consuming, a collision of pent-up longing and relentless passion. His hands slid to her waist, pulling her flush against him as though he needed to feel every inch of her, to make sure she was real and there. His fingers gripped her tightly, possessive and unwavering, as though letting go wasn't an option.

She gasped against his mouth, the sound swallowed by him as he deepened the kiss, his tongue sweeping past her lips with a fervor that left her dizzy. She clung to him, her hands fisting in his shirt as if anchoring herself to him, her own yearning matching his intensity.

His teeth grazed her lower lip, and the sensation sent sparks down her spine, making her toes curl. When he finally pulled back, their breaths came in ragged, uneven gasps, their foreheads pressed together.

"Damn, I missed you," he murmured, his voice hoarse and thick with emotion. His thumb brushed over her swollen lips, his gaze softening even as his grip on her remained firm.

He couldn't get enough. He had waited too long, dreamed far too much, and now that she was here in his arms, he knew one thing with absolute certainty—this would never be enough.

The world around them blurred into nothingness, the stars above standing as their only silent witnesses. It felt as though the universe itself held its breath, the weight of the moment so profound that it seemed to stretch into eternity. Time, as if swayed by some cosmic force, paused its relentless march to grant them this perfect, unshakable truth.

Finally, finally, they were exactly where they were meant to be.

"Oh, sorry I left you there. Had a wardrobe emergency. I was just fixing the zipper of my dress," Lisa said quickly, her tone light as her eyes flicked to his reflection in the mirror. She turned her attention back to the stubborn zipper, her fingers fumbling with the clasp. She didn't notice the soft click of the lock as Mingyu stepped fully into the room, his gaze unyielding and unreadable.

"My family can be a lot sometimes, but don't worry, I'm almost done here," she continued, her voice striving for casualness, oblivious to the shift in the air behind her. "They're loud, ask too many questions, but they're fun, right?"

She finally managed to secure the zipper and turned around, ready to rejoin the party. But her breath caught as she spun directly into him—too close, close enough that the heat radiating from his body was inescapable. Her words died on her lips, her wide eyes locking onto his.

Mingyu didn't step back. Instead, he leaned in just slightly, his presence unmistakable, his dark eyes holding hers with an intensity that sent a shiver through her.

"I missed you," he murmured, his voice low and rough. His hands slid around her waist, firm yet measured, drawing her closer in a way that left no room for uncertainty.

Her heart thundered as every sense heightened. The muted hum of Latin pop filtered through the closed door, the warmth of his touch seeped through the thin fabric of her dress, and the faint scent of his cologne curled around her, making her head swim. The air between them felt suffocating and electric all at once.

"You keep saying that all night," she replied, forcing a laugh that came out shakier than she intended. Her fingers fidgeted against the fabric of her skirt, seeking anything to ground her.

His lips quirked slightly, but his eyes remained fixed on hers, unwavering. "I can't help it, mama," he murmured, his voice a husky caress. His fingers flexed against her waist, sending a jolt up her spine, his closeness pushing her resolve to its breaking point.

She exhaled a shaky breath, her palms instinctively pressing against his chest, fingers curling into the fabric of his shirt as though to steady herself. The solidness of him beneath her touch was as disarming as the smirk now playing at the corners of his mouth.

"I missed you too," she whispered, her voice barely audible, her gaze flicking upward to meet his through the veil of her lashes.

That was all it took. Mingyu groaned low in his throat, his restraint snapping. His hand slid to the nape of her neck, tangling in her hair as he crushed his lips against hers. The kiss was wild, untamed, and filled with the kind of need that made her knees buckle.

They stumbled back until her legs hit the edge of the bed. He guided her down, his weight pinning her against the lavender sheets. Her breath hitched as he trailed his lips along her jaw, then lower, his tongue and teeth leaving a blazing path down her neck.

"Mingyu," she gasped, her hands clutching at his shoulders as her head fell back, baring more of her throat to him.

The zipper she had painstakingly fixed was undone in one rough tug, the sound sharp in the quiet intimacy of the room. Mingyu's fingers skimmed over her exposed skin, his touch hot and electrifying. His lips followed the path of his hands, tasting, teasing, leaving her breathless.

Her fingers slid into his hair, tugging gently as she arched beneath him, every nerve in her body alight with desire. He pulled back just enough to meet her gaze, his dark eyes filled with unspoken promises as his thumb grazed her cheek. Her hair fanned out on the bed, catching the moonlight streaming in through the window. She looked ethereal, and Mingyu stilled for a moment, his eyes drinking her in.

"Lisa..." he murmured, his voice low and husky, each syllable laced with a restrained longing. "The moon is beautiful tonight, isn't it?"

Her breath hitched, her chest rising and falling as she stared into his eyes, she reached up, her fingers trembling as they cradled his face, her thumb brushing over the sharp edge of his jaw. The tenderness in her gaze was a stark contrast to the fire crackling between them, an unspoken tension pulling them closer.

"I love you too," she whispered, her words a confession, a surrender, a promise all at once. The moment they left her lips, his resolve snapped.

His mouth captured hers in a kiss that was slower this time, deliberate, yet no less consuming. His hands slid up her back, pulling her flush against him as her fingers tangled in his hair. Their breaths mingled, soft and uneven, each one a quiet plea for more.

The world beyond the room dissolved into nothingness, leaving them cocooned in the heady mix of moonlight and shared desire. Every brush of their lips, every touch of their hands, spoke of the ache of having waited too long and the quiet desperation of wanting forever.

In that moment, there was no more hesitation, no more holding back—just them, lost in the infinite promise of the night.

Fools & Secrets
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