Ruby(Red 2) JC [Revised]

18: Bittermoon Maybe?

"Oh Han, are you enjoying your honeymoon?" Jeonghan heard his father's happy voice on the other side of the phone. He was currently in Paris, on his honeymoon with Aerum, or rather what he called his "bittermoon." The entire week had been a living hell for him, and the way he was acting with Aerum could earn him an Oscar.

"I'm, appa. We are returning tomorrow."

Finally, they were! Tomorrow would be the one-month anniversary of their marriage and also the end of this hell. He couldn't wait to get back to Korea and resume his daily life. He was determined that the second month would be the last month of their marriage.

"That's great. I'm so happy you're settled now, Han."

"I know, appa. But can I ask you something?"

"Of course, son. Anything. You don't need to hesitate with your father."

"You know I'm working as a model and that has been my dream. But now, is it okay if I just don't and do something else instead?"

"Han, I built such a big company so that you could live a happy and content life. Don't pressure yourself so much. You have a wife now. Spend more time with her, after all, you two are newly married. It's fine even if you don't want to do anything at all."

"No, appa. I was thinking if I could just join the company?"

"That's a wonderful decision, Han. You are my only son, and I've always wanted you to take over my company. But you always loved modeling and acting, so I never stopped you from following your dream. But now that you're willing to fulfill my dream, I'm literally so happy. You are the new CEO of Himang Enterprise."

"Appa, thank you so much. You always do a lot for me."

"You are my only son, Han. My everything is just for you, right?"

"I love you, truly."

"Appa loves you more, Han."

Jeonghan smiled as he heard his father's words. Even though he knew he wasn't Minjun's biological son, he always loved him as if he were. Minjun was probably the most perfect father to ever exist, and especially after Jeonghan's mother's death, he never let him feel her absence.

As Jeonghan hung up the phone, he felt a strange mix of relief and anticipation. Joining the family company was a significant step, one that would give him the power and resources to finally break free from Aerin's manipulative grasp. He glanced at Aerum, who was happily chatting with a shopkeeper about some Parisian souvenirs. She had been nothing but kind to him, yet he couldn't bring himself to reciprocate her feelings genuinely.

Returning to Korea would mark the beginning of his plan. He would focus on his new role as CEO, use his influence to uncover Aerin's weaknesses, and finally reunite with Seungcheol. The thought of being back with Seungcheol gave him a glimmer of hope amid the turmoil.

"Ready to head back to the hotel?" Aerum asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Yes, let's go," Jeonghan replied, forcing a smile. For now, he had to keep up the act. But soon, everything would change. The bittermoon would end, and he would take control of his life once again.

_

"FOUNDER OF HIMANG ENTERPRISE, YOON MINJUN, STEPS DOWN AS HIS SON TAKES OVER HIS COMPANY."

Nicole read the caption written in block letters at the top of the article.

"Mom, read the whole thing," Aerin impatiently demanded.