Chapter 16
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To the person I loved too much
To the red thread that got too entangled in itself
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You were still reeling two days later from the discoveries regarding your past and heritage. Jihyo advised you to go to the bank and inquire about the contents of the safety deposit box. You may now put this chapter behind you.
You aren't sure what to feel, especially after learning that your mother was Jungkook's father's, true love. You were overcome with despair when you discovered your relationship with Jungkooks was doomed from the start. The love affair of your ''parents'' ends at the beginning of your love affair. History just repeats itself.
It's no surprise his mother despised you so much. Is it possible that she was aware of your mother and the man she married all along? She was adamant that her son would never marry a girl whose mother had caused her sorrow by falling in love with the man she loved and cherished. She had to compete for her husband's love with a nameless rival.
He never truly loved her, but his severe and domineering father, Jungkooks' grandfather, compelled him to marry the gorgeous heiress.
As you sit in your office, you sigh heavily as you finalize your trip to Paris to visit the cosmetics CEOs of Sisley Cosmetics. You were astounded by this innovative venture. It will boost your company's profits substantially. Mr. Kang has also scheduled a lunch meeting with you and Jihyo to discuss more business projects. You are eternally grateful to him for uplifting and motivating you when you were in dire straits.
Your new PA or receptionist, Sehun, smiles broadly," Ms. Song Your flight information is as follows: I just emailed it to your e-mail address. Madam, the CEO would also like to Facetime with you."
"OK," you say, nodding. "Thanks.I'll talk to her soon."
Sehun smiled. "Oh, and Mr. Lee is wondering if you're available for a brunch date at his coffee shop. He wishes to show off the new interior design. The renovations are almost done."
"Wow!" you exclaimed, raising your eyes in awe. He has already begun the remodeling." We need to get the production company and the presentation to Mr. Kangs' team. Jihyo!" You called your sister, who was still in her office finishing up your presentation for the French cosmetics house.
Jihyo peers out of her office door. "Yes?" Her eyes appeared a little tired from sitting up; she was still unpacking in her new home.
"I'll be meeting Mr. Lee in his Ulsan coffee shop for brunch and possibly going to the bank for business," you said with a smile. You offered her a discreet grin. She suggested you go research your past.
You inhaled deeply, hoping that what you discovered would not be too upsetting. You are just trying to understand who you are and move on with your life.
Jihyo gave a nod. "It's all right... Sehun can order us lunch for the office." I'll be working on our finances, so you can borrow my vehicle; it will be quicker. Any idea for dinner?"
Your brow wrinkled. " I need to pack for the week." Maybe you can come over and we can put something together."
"I'm leaving a little earlier; I bought a new lounge suit, and Don-woos' bedroom set will be delivered as well.I want to surprise her when she comes from her Appas house." Jihyo promptly informed you.
"Okay, I'll see you at home. Oh, and I will go to the MANDATE- dinner with Mr. Lee, and his brother will take you, Jihyo, and you'll be his plus one," you smirk and give her a teasing wink.
Jihyos' eyes expand. "Oh goodness! I wanted to go stag. I don't want to be in the company of men and make small talk," she moans.
You and Sehun broke out laughing. Jihyo was swearing off men after her breakup with her ex-husband. She struggles with trust, and dating is the last thing on her mind.
"His brother only wants a pretty date," you smirk. "Come on Ji, you wanted me to come, so let's go have some fun with two handsome guys. He is the older brother of Mr. Lees. He works as a doctor. Lee claimed that he is always on the go and never has time to date. You'll just be charming, and I know we're not ready to start dating. But I'm on my way to recovery," you smirk.
"We all know Mr. Lee has feelings for you," Jihyo snorts." Just start dating him already." Your eyes darken for a moment when your mind drifted to an illegal area.
You have a gentle smile," He is really appealing, and I'm a little nervous about dating right now. I'll need at least five years to heal"--Your eyes instantly darken again. You wonder if you'll ever be able to move on from "he who must not be named." Your heart is scarred beyond repair, and giving someone a shattered heart will be damaging to both your happiness.
Jihyo saw your new demeanor and offered you a quick hug before whispering in your ear, "Time will heal our wounds. Also, go do some retail therapy and purchase yourself a new dress for the MANDATE event. We're going to slay that evening."
"OK, let me leave and get to Mr. Lees' place," you say softly.
She tosses her car keys at you as she walks back to her office. Sehun was on the phone, placing an order for lunch for her and Jihyo. You wave at them and stroll to the massive double doors.
The drive to Lees' coffee shop wasn't too long or exhausting. But there were many twists and turns to get to the shop in the heart of Ulsan. There wasn't a lot of traffic was fairly light
You adore your new eclectic neighborhood. This environment gives you a sense of serenity and rejuvenation.
Your eyes expand in astonishment as you park in front of the new coffee shop. Wow!
You took care not to trip on the concrete steps. He converted the building from drab on the outside to really fantastic on the inside. The windows provided a panoramic view. But the shades were still drawn.
As you carefully walk through the massive glass doors, your eyes are drawn to the major renovation of the little quaint restaurant.
Mr. Lee stood with his hands folded, talking with the electrician and lighting technicians. He looked great in a Louis Vittone blue and white striped shirt with his dark, nutmeg brown hair styled backward. His shirt was pushed up to show off his expensive watch.
When he saw you walk in with an amazed expression on your face, his eyes brightened up and he chuckled loudly before meeting you halfway. Your wide eyes continue to examine the new coffee shop decor. It was breathtaking. So light and natural. The boring, plain family coffeeshop of their family has been replaced with a trendier and more up-market appearance.
"Oh wow! This place has taken on a new vibe. You did an excellent job, Mr. Lee," his delighted eyes twinkle. He just smirks as his gaze wanders over your stunning features. He can't take his eyes off this girl. Why isn't she taken? He knows any man would fall head over heels for her. She was both hot and professional. A true career woman with panache.
Her brown hair was parted and fell softly at the sides of her face. She looked stunning in her enormous Chanel earrings, polka dots feminine top, short black little skirt, and black six-inch Jimmy Choos sandals. He inhaled deeply as his eyes caress her delicate features. She was flawless.
Your attention had been drawn to the exquisite artwork on the ceiling. The undulating ceiling is fascinating in every aspect. You can already imagine the customers who will want to sit in every nook and cranny of this small cafe to watch the waves move and groove. It will be a lovely setting with excellent coffee and caramel prepared in-house. If you are a guest, you will capture the interior, particularly the ceiling.
This location will draw new breeds to his side of town. Young executives and CEOs would like to unwind in this cozy atmosphere. You're certain that the prices would differ?
"The ceiling is glorious, Mr. Lee," you shook your head. "This year's Design awards will go to your coffee shop."
Mr. Lee beams broadly, "You think so? Our designer has previously received an award for his bold and daring interior design skills. My friend Taehyung also recommended him to me. It looks to be a combination of curves, bends, and wood pieces that resemble beautiful waves to us. "
"Well, congratulations...if I could ask, when is the new re-opening?" you look around where workers were busily setting the new equipment on the counters. Even though the mention of your ex-friend makes you sorrowful, conceal your pain with a gentle smile. Taehyung was very close to you, and losing him as a friend was the most difficult part of the breakup. You knew he'd side with Jungkook, the truly wronged one. You don't blame Jungkook for treating you this way. If you were in his shoes, you would do the same. You quickly push those troubling thoughts aside and grin brightly up at Lee's face.
He appears to be in a good mood, and he is a really lovely man if only you had met him while your heart was still intact.
"We are opening this weekend," he smiles, his eyes tenderly resting on your radiant and excited face. "We're basically getting started with minor details here and there. You've become my new muse. I wanted to surprise you. We started a few days ago...My construction company started a few days ago and worked till midnight. The store fitters finalized the permanent fixtures today."
"So, will the menu stay the same?" your eyes twinkle.
"Oh yes," he said with a smile." We don't want to lose our signature coffee scent. According to your presentation, we are going to add chill jazz music and a new aesthetic to provide a pleasing space for our visitors to take a breather. We'll target young executives because a new office skyscraper has just opened a few blocks away, and I know a few CEOs who will be working there. We will sell our delectable treats both in-store and to-go.
You nod, impressed." Your shop will continue to provide a variety of coffee selections for caffeine addicts. I'm hoping you'll still offer Flannel Drip and Chemex Drip, as well as a full menu of espresso-based drinks." You inquire. With a smile, he nods.
Mr. Lee grabbed your elbow and led you around the shop, saying, "You can find the usual drinks like Americano, Cappuccino, and Latte. However, if you visit Vivant Coffees in the future, make sure to sample our new trademark espresso menu."
"Wow, so you decide on a name change?"Your eyes widened.
"Yes, Vivant means 'Lively' in French. In the evenings, there will be live jazz music. Remember your suggestions for a light lunch and supper menu--I've got a great chef coming from Japan to work full-time for us.
He took your hands in his and stared down at you. "Jenna...thank you for assisting me in transforming and rejuvenating an old family business."
The intensity of his eyes unnerved you, and you exhaled, "Not to mention. But it's my work, and you're the one who writes the checks," you chuckle nervously.
Being in the company of this hot man-made you yearn for someone who is going to cherish you. You haven't dated a man in nearly two years. There is no active dating, but you know that if you get connected with Mr. Lee, Jungkook will become a significant factor. He'll make Mr. Lee hate you, and you don't want to lose a possible friend.
"Always the modest one," Mr Lee chuckled. "I can't wait to see the commercial. Mr. Kang informed me how amazing you are, and that with your abilities, we would soar much higher, Jenna." He whispered your name.
You bit your lower lip and nodded, "Don't flatter me, Mr. Lee...it might go to my head."
"Come, let me show you what we did with the executive offices," he grinned." It has been renovated."He gripped your hand firmly and led you up the stairs.
"We purchased the building on top and rebuilt it to become a part of the coffee shop. I'll have a personal space with a restroom and a tiny lounge nook for my specialty coffees and honored guests, as well as my PA office, a boardroom, and a staff room."As you glance around. The walls are still vacant, and you were pleasantly delighted to reach the top story.
You were pleasantly surprised when you walked into his office area. The boardroom looked very upscale, with black and white accents. A large marble table was in the center of the room, surrounded by white office boardroom chairs. On the shelves on the wall, family photos and images of him were displayed. You smirk as you look at the photo of him with his grandparents. It was taken during his university graduation.
You were not expecting to learn that he was Jungkook's senior in Uni at the time. Hoseok and Namjoon are more or less the same age. When you were dating Jungkook a few years ago, you never really met him. Perhaps he was more acquainted with the older maknaes. Or they could have met after university and become friends.
You are still concerned about his friendship with the Bangtan Elites, and you are uncertain how to express your thoughts about their friendship. Jungkook will probably poison him against you.
"A penny for your thoughts," Mr. Lee grinned softly as he gazed at your faraway appearance as you stood in front of his family pictures.
"You have a beautiful family," you remark as you turn back to him. "It is such a privilege to still have your grandparents. They must love you."
He nodded and approached you, grabbing one of the frames on the display while staring affectionately at it, saying, "My family is my life because I adore them. Nobody wants to take over this business. My uncles advised my grandmother to sell because no one was interested. So I took over, and when my grandfather passed away, he left it to me. I'll be eternally thankful, which is why I wanted to pour fresh life into an old building."
You pursed your lips, "You are a very kind man, Jung Suk."You look up sideways at this expression of affection for his family.
"Yes, I studied acting and did a lot of modeling overseas. I lived in Italy for over three years before returning to finish my MBA business degree and own restaurants. My first was in Gangnam-gu, and this one came after I inherited it. But I still enjoy doing occasional acting gigs and brand modeling. I just want to settle down with the...right one." He had an undefined expression on his face when he looked at you.
"Good for you," you shrugged, uneasily." I still have to work and rebuild my career. Settle down has no label on my."
Lee furrowed his brows as he held both your hands and turned you to face him, his eyes focused on yours, "Jenna if you allow me a chance, I promise to make you the happiest girl alive," he inhaled deeply as he gazed in your nervous eyes," Jenna, I like you."
Your eyes widen at his confession, "I'm flattered that you like me Lee, but my heart is still shattered; how can I give you a broken heart and expect you to be happy?" you exhale softly. "I'd rather be alone than hurt someone like you. Lee, you have a beautiful spirit, and ----" He abruptly silences you with his forefinger on your lips.
"Jenna, Jenna, we can take it slowly. You are stunning and talented, and I can imagine myself with you at my side. Please keep in mind that my heart is also shattered; why not let two broken hearts become one?" He appeared conflicted as he observed the different emotions that flashed across your face.
"I'm afraid to trust again." You have a sad expression on your face, and your fingers are gently stroking his. You raise your head, sad.
"I'm willing to wait as long as you want. I'm not sure what happened in your life, and the story is yours to tell. My girlfriend of seven years decided to break up two months before our wedding. She returned my rings to me and left for America to start anew. For three years, I couldn't get over it, but I've chosen to forgive, forget, and start over. I'm a successful actor and model, as well as a successful business owner. I don't think about Eun-ji with a sorrowful heart; instead, I let go. Perhaps it will happen to you. I am capable of restoring your broken heart. We can help each other heal." He spoke with such passion and openness. Hearing him speak about the woman who crushed his heart brings tears to your eyes.
You blink and bite your lips to suppress the emotional overload you're feeling.
Will taking a leap of faith help you forget your first love, Jungkook? Will Jung Suk be the answer?
Lee pulled you closer to him, and you gasped as you stared up at the tall, attractive man. He was looking at you with such love that your heart was about to burst. You yearned to be loved and to be loved in return. Can you imagine that in your life?
When his hands cradled your face, you glanced at him, unsure. As he glanced at you, your heart began to race, and as he leaned closer, you could feel his breath caressing your face. It was as if he was asking your permission, and you don't know what it was, but you immediately wanted to feel his lips on yours, and when you nodded slightly, his soft lip brushed yours in a gentle kiss.
You stood there with bated breath as he slid his mouth over yours, and you reluctantly let him in and slowly kissed him back. It wasn't an untamed kiss full of unbridled desire; rather, it was a sweet kiss that said, "We want to start over."
When his hands pulled you tighter to his lean frame, your kiss became hot with need and longing to be loved again.
......
You and JungSuk could only smirk awkwardly in each other's embrace when lifting your faces. He promised you that he would go at your pace, and you agreed. He ordered a take-out lunch from a high-end restaurant for the two of you to enjoy in his not-yet-open restaurant, and your time together was serene. After two hours, you kissed each other sweetly goodbye.
Then you were on your way to the BANK OF KOREA for an important assignment: getting closer to the truth about your distant past.
As you entered the massive double revolving doors, you felt an uneasy flutter in your stomach. The only thing you were aware of was the sweaty sensations in your hands as you clutched your white Chanel purse.
As you walk to the inquiry section, you may receive appreciative stares from bank clients. A pleasant bank employee shows you to a special lounge where you can sit until she calls the person in charge of your account. When a very short and bold man emerged from a private office around the corner, you smiled warmly. He had a broad grin on his face.
A small mustache was thin over his lips. You couldn't stop smirking. He resembles one of those old vintage English gentlemen. A wide smile graces his round cheeks as he approaches you. In a respectful greeting, you both bow deeply.
"Good morning, Miss Song. I'm delighted to meet you, my dear. Mr. Kwak Joon , Branch Manager. Please come with me---" He smiled warmly and gestured for you to follow him. You entered a really pleasant office, and he motioned for you to take a seat as he took his place behind his desktop computer. Following a series of inquiries and the handing over of the proper documents. He grinned, pleased that you had everything with you and would not have to deal with red tape.
He appeared to be in his late fifties. And allegedly, when you told him who you were and what you intended to do with the bank, his face lit up. He recognized your mother, who came over two decades ago to open a special account in your name. The picture of her was displayed on his desktop computer screen, and you were astounded by your mother's beauty. It was odd that your Foster mother had no pictures of the two of them together. It's possible that your foster mother's memories of your mother were too painful for her.
The photo was virtually a carbon copy of you in your twenties. She was stunning, with her hair in flowing waves and her eyes shining brightly, in contrast to her life in Taiwan or the death of her husband. When he returned the desktop to himself, you exhaled deeply. That one image makes you miss someone you've never met.
You were amazed that someone remembered your mother by her surname, and when he asked for all of the essential documentation that your foster mother had given you, along with the key number, he smiled when all of your details were validated. You sign the proper forms, and you're given another long key that looks a lot like the one your foster mom gave you.
You were relieved that everything had worked out in your favor. Then he went into another office while you were signing off on the safety deposit box. Mr. Kwak returned with an envelope, and you furrowed your brows, wondering what it was.
"Ms Song. This is your mother's bank deposit book. You are the only owner of her savings and investment accounts that she established over 20 years ago at this bank, which I recall since I was a very young bank consultant at the time. I maintain her account, and she is still on my client list. So all of the money and interest will be added since then, your mother thought of you, and with that amount, I don't think you'd need to work for another 50 years," he says gently.
You looked astounded as you glanced briefly at the amount invested and saved by your mother. You wanted to sob out in tears when you saw the amount. My goodness...how fortunate you are. You can use this money to help settle your foster mom's massive medical debt and to pay for a home care worker. Your mother can be taken care of in the privacy of her own house. Your family will be overjoyed. You can pay for her treatment and make her feel comfortable. You might enjoy the most wonderful Christmas ever.
He summoned two security officers to accompany you to the safety deposit box department. When two bank security guards entered the office, you exhaled a sigh of relief. You and Mr. Kwak exchange greetings as you trail the two stoic guards. You breathed a sigh of satisfaction as you took the glass elevator to the third floor. A well-dressed woman stood at the door, respectfully bowed, and motioned for you to lay your finger on a verification pad. Your entire name and face were scanned, and you entered the room with all the boxes with a nod. The guards were stationed outside the door.
You read the card Mr. Kwak Joon had given you, and your brow furrowed as you went over the rows where your box was located.You grin, relieved when you spot the row for 400-600 after a minute's stroll. Your safety box can be found in locker 508.
"Thank you, God," You take out the two keys and insert them into the lock, which opens quietly with a soft click. When you notice a red metal container inside, you smile. You were immediately curious as to what was inside the container that needed to be kept safe.
You took out the red metal container and hesitantly entered a near-enclosed cubicle. The cubicle was simply cream white, with an oak wood table and a nice red wooden padded chair. You inhaled, placed the container on the table, and took your seat as you opened the metal box with the slid-forward lid.
"Oh wow!" You shook your head when you noticed a black velvet bag inside. It has to be a protective covering for whatever.
You unfasten the bag on the thin red cord with visible quivering hands. You could see two passports or personal identification cards inside. One was of a strange man, and you could tell by his surname and photo that he was your father, while the other belonged to your mother, as well as an authentic copy of your Taiwanese birth certificate with your genuine name and surname. Jeneva was your given name.
You discovered restaurant deeds as well as a house in Taiwan, three apartments, one in Osaka, Japan, one in Shanghai, China (your eyes widen), and an apartment in Italy. All of these assets are held in trust and are overseen by your uncle in Taiwan. Your mother's will is also included, with you as the primary beneficiary. Your foster mother was also a beneficiary of your mother's will. When you turned five, you would've be given a big sum of money. The document's contents will be fully implemented. Your father also left you a sizable trust fund, over which your uncle is the executor.
There were pictures of both the house and the restaurant. Unclaimed life insurance documentation for your father was discovered as his death certificate. Your eyes widen when you see the sum for which he was covered, as well as your mother's insurance papers. A business card from their insurance broker and Taiwanese bank managers. What made your breath catch was a large family album filled with all of your family photos. Your mother and father on their wedding day, your home and apartments, as well as your grandparents' home
A snapshot of the "mob family" in a group. Before and after your mob boss uncle was in a wheelchair Your grandmother and everything else. Even images of you as a newborn up until you were six months old and left in the care of your foster mom. Was your mum aware that she might die sooner? Was she afraid of the rival mafia gang that harassed her on a daily basis? You're very delighted your mother made it out of Taiwan safely with you.
There was a diary with a gorgeous green and gold Chinese pattern on it. A gold-embossed dragon on the cover and a small black phone book containing crucial phone numbers of brokers, lawyers, doctors, business partners, and so on. You're not sure if those numbers are still valid after twenty-four years. At home, you're going to browse through your mother's journal.
Your eyes began to well up, and lone tears streamed down your pale cheeks. You hastily wiped them away with your hands. You have a family, a real, legitimate family, and your parents love you. Another little bag contained your mother's most valuable jewelry. Perhaps provided by Jungkook's father or your biological father. You know she was loved by the men in her life, as opposed to you, who were both beloved and despised by the same man.
You swallow the large lump in your throat, assuring yourself that you will love yourself and heal both mentally and emotionally.
You decided right then and then to give the handsome coffee shop owner a chance to court you.
You stood up and put everything in the velvet bag with resolve, but the only things you brought with you were the deeds to your properties and insurance, jewelry, your photo album, your mother's journal, and your phone book. The remainder will be kept safe in a safety deposit box. You're just thankful there's one where you can keep your vital documents safe.
You carefully replaced the red metal box, double-locked the locker, and nodded to the two security guards who walked you back downstairs.
A/n Jenna wants to give Jung Suk a chance.
Thank you to all the Kookie-stans who waited so long for an update. I hope you love the long chapter.
Shout out to all the voters, commenters, and those who add the book to their readers'list. to Mishieyy30 T13072013 _Teshina- Poinnkoink922 ruhi0103 NamcyDaniels5 Lilo_Sakura Aliya589 Beetaemin midukutty Hooky99 Yankeegirl255 Selcouth8 OmaPhinaPhire
1. Do you think Jungkook will really be a hazard in her new relationship?
2. Is it wise to start dating even if she still loves Jungkook?
3. Do you think Jungkook will accept the new man in her life?
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