"Gardenias or Roses?"

"Roses."

"Red or white?"

"Red."

"Enough," Grandma slams a hand on a nearby table. The array of glasses move with the action. One of them almost falling to the floor, but a staff member is quick enough to catch it. With a sorry stutter, he moves to his position at the back of the hall. Eyes trained to the front while I meet the eyes of my grandmother who frowns in return.

"Are we taking up your time, Kim Soa?"

The question comes out with a chill. Her icy glare directed at me for the second time today. The reality is that my time is being taken up. With all the planning we've been doing, I haven't had a chance to go to the office or check up on Jeongguk, but there's no way I can tell her that.

"No, Grandma-"

"Then can you participate a little more? You asked to be involved in the planning, so accept the responsibility of your wishes."

I nod, averting my gaze to Mother who passes me a sorry smile. It's almost as if the two of them have switched personalities in the past few days.

Grandmother continues to point out different designs. With a serious expression and a cold look. I understand why neither Fei or Yejin had wanted to take part in planning their weddings. Had I known she would be the way she is right now, I too would have opted to stay out of it.

We choose a menu and cakes that match with the day ahead. It's all too much and rich. Bursting flavours that emphasize the wealth and riches in our family. A point that has been constantly thrown around all day by the various people involved.

"This is something worthy of people from your class."

"Your wedding has to carry an aura of wealth."

"Only the best for the rich."

At these statements I could only grimace while the women beside me smiled with pride. A pride they could tone down seeing as the wealth now came from the copious amount of work my brothers and I have had to put into Kim Group.

Of course, I couldn't say that. It would be disrespectful and that's something I hadn't been called in a while.

-

"I came as fast as I could." I blurt out to a smiling Taehyung who always finds my state of displeasure amusing. Knowing our grandmother and her knack for planning events, I should've expected her to keep me for longer than she was supposed to.

The foyer has staff running around, a few passing tight smiles toward Taehyung and I. Their movements convey a sense of tension and a rush that is necessary considering we're in the middle of signing one of the biggest deals of our leadership at Kim Group. A deal that could seal the future of our company for years to come.

"Jeongguk followed some of the executives to the meeting," Taehyung announces as we enter the lift. The empty area provides a safe space for a short conversation. "Are you sure he's ready to do this?" Taehyung questions, pulling my actions to a stop. The hair on my head falling limp as I meet his eyes.

It's a question that had run through my head earlier too. Had I been too hasty in allowing Jeongguk to make consecutive decisions at the company? Of course the risk that this could go wrong has entered my mind a million times. Even Jeongguk was against it, stating that he couldn't be this involved, but if not now then when?

"He'll be fine. He's done this more times than we can count." I reassure, passing him a smile. Taehyung accepts my finality, accepting the situation for what it is.

Conversation quickly jumps to the wedding, set to happen day from now. The nerves of that already running through Taehyung because it's real and he's not ready. Neither am I, but the excitement gets me going. Knowing I'm marrying the man I love comforts me. I could have ended up like my brothers. Set to marry someone who doesn't know me, but I got lucky and that makes me happy.

My mouth smile breaks into a smile at the sight of Jeongguk seated just outside the boardroom. He springs to his feet, offering a nod toward Taehyung and his arms toward me.

Not caring that the glass walls hide nothing, I pull him in, the smell of his cologne giving me mild comfort and reassurance about the decision awaiting us. "I know what's going through your head and no, you're doing this, Guk. I trust you."

He sighs, "I know, but Soa this is a big deal for you, for Tae-the company-"

"Will be fine." I smile, patting his shoulder, "Now stop worrying and get in there." I nod at the glass door behind him.

Taehyung offers him a fist bump and words that make me roll my eyes. "If you ruin this, forget about your wedding tomorrow."

It's an empty threat, but still Jeongguk gulps and nervously smiles. He turns toward the open door while we follow behind. A task that turns heads inside the room.

From my seat, I eye Gloria who already wears an unpleasant looking scowl on her face. Loyal to the company, I know she's already ready to bombard Taehyung with questions afterward. Uncle Seungmin sits beside her with a composed face, but I'm sure he's brewing with anger.

At the end of the table, I take in the board of directors from Larcos, a reputable Italian company within the motor industry. International and very much up to standard with the way we work at Kim Group. Also well-known to Jeongguk because it's the only car brand he'd driven while in Italy.

"We'd like to begin by asking what exactly you're hoping to achieve by partnering up with our company." He starts, after numerous introductions.

A man by the name of Marco, passes a sinister smile around the room. "We are aware that Kim Group is a leader in Korean technology. As leaders in the motor industry, partnership could benefit both companies."

Jeongguk raises a brow, "We are partnered with many excellent companies, how would this be different?" His gaze is serious and every ounce of nerves is concealed. What is obvious is that he's experienced. The way the simple question rolls over the room and causes worry, is enough to pull a smile out of me. "We're used to reputable companies. What we need is guaranteed revenue, sales and shares. Are you certain the average Korean could afford the cheapest car you have to offer?"

Marco smiles confident. "Sir, I can assure you that Larcos is affordable for all economic classes. South Korea, specifically Seoul, is one of our leading consumers. Partnering with Kim Group would bring revenue from both Italy and Korea. We're also willing to offer a five percent share-"

"Make it seven percent along with a constant flow of raw materials and your best engineers from your company. If we do this, it has to be done correctly."

"Deal." Marco smiles, sliding a sheet of paper over to Jeongguk.

"Looking forward to doing business with you all. Thank you for choosing Kim Group." He smiles, passing the paper back.

The group of directors exit the room, looking pleased at the deal they were able to land. Gloria escorts them with a smile on her own face, clearly impressed by how easily he was able to turn the deal into something beneficial for both parties.

Taehyung passes Jeongguk a thumbs up, disappearing out of the boardroom with a haste that leaves me floored. It doesn't matter because when I'm sure we're alone, I allow myself to move toward the man. Taking a seat on his lap, despite the eyes outside.

"We're at work." He speaks, contradicting himself with his hands wrapping around my waist.

I rolls my eyes, pulling his face closer to my own, "And you CEO Jeon did so well. Can I kiss you?" I ask, aware that Jeongguk is not one for public displays. Especially knowing he's supposed to be in charge of the business.

"You're already on my lap so-" I cut him off, knowing it's the consent I needed. With a slow kiss that shows how I proud I am.

He responds to the kiss, moving a hand up the back of my blazer, onto the low cut top he knows I'm wearing. His soft lips move with mine in a rhythm we're both used to. It's a beat of our own. One we know well.

With a pop, he pulls away, placing one on my neck while I search for air on his shoulder.

"We should probably stop before the next meeting," He mumbles, interlocking our fingers. "You're going dress fitting?"

"That and other last minute things." I hum, pecking his lips, "I'll see you at dinner tonight?"

He hums, "Love you."

"Love you too."

-

"It's a little tight at the top-" Grandmother speaks, pointing a newly painted nail at me. Her look of displeasure still etched on her face as it has been all afternoon. In the moment, I'm grateful for all the other ladies who have come along because I could not bare to argue with her now.

"It's great!" Fei interrupts, not caring one bit. "You look beautiful and for what it's worth, you're always so covered up, now is the perfect moment to show some skin."

Of course she'd be an advocate for skin. Her short dress shows all of it. Something Mother and Grandma could not stand to look at while Irena and I kept passing her compliments. Yejin just smiles from her seat, sipping on a flute of champagne like the lady she is.

"I just think it looks cheap-"

"Mrs Kim, with all due respect," Fei starts, "This dress carries class aswell as grace. Showing a little skin at the tip won't shape the way anyone perceives Soa."

Mother hums, adding that the wedding will be small enough for no one to change their view of me or the company. Despite their back and forth I smile at the white gown. It's what I wanted. An elegant gown that would accentuate the areas needed. My waist and breast area look amazing. It's modest and doesn't draw too much attention.

"I like it." I smile, pulling at the flaring bottom.

No other words are directed at me afterward. We leave the boutique without Mother or Grandmother. Fei happily passes the both of them waves while we enter my car. The Audi blending in with the everyday city life.

"This family can be so exhausting." Fei confesses, leaning against the seat with a dramatic flair that causes me to chuckle.

"Few more days then you're out of here." I reply, tapping her arm.

"This is why my brother and I fled the country." Irena smiles, working at her lips in the backseat.

Beside her Yejin quietly sits. It's something that's become normal now. Her choosing to say the least around us. Namjoon had explained that she normally didn't have anything to add. Even with him it was sometimes a game of questions and answers.

Fei shakes her head, "Seokjin wants to move back home." The statement causes me to frown. The option never existing according to the contract that had been set up at their wedding. It's definitely something the family might be discussing in the near future.

"I think it'll be good for him." She continues.

"You're not moving too?" I inquire, stopping at a red light and meeting her face. She's been around long enough for me to expect her whenever I see my brother.

"I am. I'm just not sure if I want to stay with your family." She's honest and I appreciate that.

"Well, that's understandable. Yejin what about you and Joon. Going back anytime soon?" Irena pipes in, pulling the girl out of her thoughts.

Her face falls at the question. "We're going back to Busan after the wedding. Namjoon might be promoted and we're supposed to try for a baby." I wince at the latter. It sounds like an obligation. One thing Jeongguk and I have the freedom to do at our own pace.

It makes me grateful for the relationship I have, "Well, I have to say I'm glad you're all here. I appreciate all the help you've put in with this wedding. I love you ladies."

The ride is filled with stories, mostly Irena complaining about her situation with Yoongi. A relationship that still seems highly unlikely to the rest of us. Even Yejin adds her opinion here and there.

We enter the salon, wearing broad smiles. The lady behind the desk passes us one of her own. "Welcome to Styles, how can I help you?"

Fei steps forward, "We have a reservation under Kim Group."

Her face falls into recognition quickly, pulling all four of us behind her. The power of the company surely does come in handy at times.

-

"You should atleast have enough respect to invite your parents." Grandmother chimes with a hard shake of her head. Of all things we could discuss at the dinner table, she chooses to bring up the Jeon family.

It was no secret that they were not invited to the wedding. Wishes stated by Jeongguk, that I chose to respect. If the tables were turnt, I'd want him to do the same. However, elders only saw it as a rebellion and influence from me.

"Mrs Kim, my parents have disowned me-"

"That still does not give you any right to withhold them from their parental milestone." She argues, "The reason you're here is because of them. The reason you even met my granddaughter is because of them." She concludes, pulling an internal eye roll from me.

The rest of the family all sit in silence, staring at the food with so much interest. It makes me want to laugh. Even Mother chooses to remain silent.

Jeongguk shifts in his seat, cleary becoming uncomfortable with the topic at hand, "I'll arrange for them to come." He caves, causing me to sigh while Grandmother smiles. Satisfied with her influence, she goes back to eating her food.

Watching how easily she was able to bully him into following her orders, I can't help but be grateful that she'll be gone after the wedding. The last thing Jeongguk needs is her pressure on top of everything else going on.

-

Author's Note:

Wedding day is almost here. Thank you for reading.

Any thoughts on this chapter?

If not, have an awesome day. ❤️