same ground ✩ l.hs

二十一

" You thought I wouldn't find out? "

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" Mr. Lee, your father wanted to talk to you about the upcoming marriage. Please meet him at your family's house. " His secretary announced to him before bowing, excusing herself out.

Heeseung sighed, already predicting what would happen later in their conversation. And it's for sure not gonna turn out well.

He picked up his phone and blazer before walking out of his office. His driver already waiting outside with a bunch of security waiting as well side by side to where he would walk. And for a split second, he saw her dark brown hair walking out on the other elevator.

Out of nowhere, he stopped walking and was about to look back in her direction when one of the security asked if he was alright to which he ended up replying with a nod, failing to do what he was about to do earlier.

Was that Aera? He asked himself and shook out for him to continue his original business.

—

" How are you these days, Heeseung? You looked fine now unlike your usual irritated self whenever you meet up with your father. " His driver asked with a chuckle to end his words. The ravanette smiled softly, " Am I? " He asked the driver.

" Yes, you are. And that brings me, " He confirmed, looking beside him for a moment, flashing a smile before adding, " You finally met again, didn't you? "

Heeseung bit his lip trying to lock in the smile he wanted to hide but failed when he suppressed a giggle instead. Even though she was mentioned without a name, Heeseung could see her smiling face clearly in his mind.

" Aigo~ Did you know that you've always been like that whenever I mention her, even back when we were in high school? " His driver laughed remembering when Heeseung would always get caught by him for sneaking out just to meet with her at a family gathering.
" Love truly never gets old. "

Heeseung didn't react outwardly, but he knew within himself that he agreed with what was being said to him. " I want to thank you for always covering for me with my father... Mr. Nam," Heeseung said making Mr. Nam laugh and assuring him that it was the smallest thing he could do for someone he treats like his own son. After all, he has always been there since he was little, and saw him growing up with his own eyes.

—

Nestled at the end of a winding driveway lined with ancient oak trees, the mansion stood as a testament to grandeur and timeless elegance. Its imposing facade, crafted from rough-hewn stone quarried from distant hills, rose majestically against the backdrop of a clear blue sky. Turrets and towers punctuated its roofline, each one adorned with intricately carved gargoyles that seemed to keep watch over the sprawling estate.

Massive windows, framed by intricately carved woodwork and draped with heavy velvet curtains, reflected the sunlight in dazzling prisms, casting intricate patterns on the marble steps leading to the grand entrance. The double doors, crafted from centuries-old oak and adorned with wrought iron, stood sentinel, welcoming guests into a world where opulence met old-world charm.