𝚞𝚗𝚎𝚡𝚙𝚎𝚌𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚙𝚘𝚜𝚊𝚕

Hana rubbed her head in irritation .  She closed her eyes 𝚊𝚗𝚍  remembe𝚛𝚎𝚍 how she got into this mess at first place .

(Flashback)

Hana stood in her small apartment, her eyes scanning the letter her grandfather had left her. She felt a mix of emotions: sadness, loss, and a hint of frustration. Why had he asked this of her? Didn't he know her dreams, her aspirations?

She thought about her grandfather's words, his wishes, and her own desires. Hana was determined to forge her own path, not be tied down by obligations or expectations.

Victoria, her stepmother, entered the room, a calculating glint in her eye. "So, you're finally going to do something useful with your life, Hana. Marry that rich CEO and secure our future."

Hana's gaze narrowed, her voice firm. "I'll make my own decisions, Victoria. Not for your benefit, but for mine."

Hana's stepmother, Victoria, raised an eyebrow, taken aback by Hana's defiance. "Fine, be stubborn. But know this: marrying Jihoon Lee is the only way to secure your future. You're not exactly swimming in options, Hana."

Hana felt a surge of anger, but she kept her cool. She knew Victoria's tactics, the way she used guilt and manipulation to control those around her.

"I'll take my chances," Hana said, her voice steady. "I'd rather rely on myself than marry some stranger just for security."

Victoria snorted. "You're such a fool, Hana. You'll regret this decision."

Hana watched as Victoria stormed out of the room, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. She knew she had to stay strong, focus on her own goals and aspirations.
•
•
•
Meanwhile, Jihoon sat in his father's office, the scent of old wood and leather enveloping him. Mr. Lee's expression was stern, his eyes narrowing as he spoke.

"Jihoon, our family's legacy is at stake. The Ryu family has always been our closest allies. Marrying Hana is the only way to secure our business future."

Jihoon shifted uncomfortably, feeling the weight of his father's words. "But, Father, I don't even know her."

Mr. Lee's voice turned cold. "That's irrelevant. You'll do as I say, or you'll forfeit your right to lead this company as per the contract and wills of your late grand father .

Ji-hoon sighed and left the room . He went to the terrace and called someone.

" Hello ? "
" can we meet today ? "

•
•
•

It was evening when Hana arrived at the coffee shop, nervous but determined. She had agreed to meet Jihoon, hoping to clarify the situation and set boundaries.

As she spotted Jihoon, . He was even more handsome than she had expected, with piercing eyes and a strong jawline.

But Hana wasn't here to admire his looks. She was here to make it clear that she wouldn't be pushed into some arranged marriage.

  She noticed his polished demeanor and refined features. He looked every bit the CEO, confident and in control.

Their conversation was stilted at first, with Hana making it clear that she wouldn't be pushed into the arranged marriage. Jihoon listened intently, his expression unreadable.

"I'm glad we could meet, Hana," Jihoon said, his voice measured. "I think we can both agree that our families' expectations are...complicated."

Hana nodded, her eyes narrowing slightly. "I won't be forced into anything, Jihoon. I have my own life, my own goals."

"Of course," Jihoon replied, his expression unreadable. "I propose a deal. We marry, and I'll take my position as CEO. And after 1 year , we can divorce amicably, and you'll receive a generous settlement."

Hana raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite herself. "What's in it for you?"

Jihoon's smile was calculating. "My father will finally be satisfied, and I'll have secured the company's future. After the divorce, I can focus on my own postion , free from family obligations."

Hana considered his proposal, weighing the pros and cons. It was a businesslike arrangement, devoid of emotions or attachment. She could use this opportunity to secure her own future, and then move on.

"Okay, deal," she said

Jihoon's handshake was firm, his eyes glinting with a hint of triumph.

As they parted ways, Hana felt a sense of relief wash over her. She had stood her ground, and Jihoon seemed to respect her boundaries.

But as she turned to leave, their hands touched briefly, sending a spark of electricity through her body. Hana quickly pulled away, feeling a flush rise to her cheeks.

Jihoon's eyes narrowed slightly, as if he too had felt the unexpected jolt.

•

•

•

Six months had passed since Hana and Jihoon's agreement. The wedding preparations were in full swing, with their families eagerly anticipating the union.

Hana stood in front of the mirror, her wedding dress a vision of white silk and lace. She felt like a pawn in a game she couldn't control, but she had made her peace with the arrangement.

"Hana, you look beautiful," Soo-Young said, her voice trembling. "I know this isn't the marriage you dreamed of, but I hope you'll find happiness."

Hana forced a smile, feeling a mix of emotions: resignation, anxiety, and a hint of curiosity. What would her life be like with Jihoon?

Suddenly she remembered something " what about her ? Did you do as I said ? . Her voice firm .

A smirk appeared on Soo-Young face , she spoke with a mischievous glint on her face , " oh that bitch , don't worry about her ! She is having a tight sleep after what she did with you " . ( aov : what you both besties are planning? . Hana: nothing * giggle  )

Their conversation came to an end when a servent came to inform about the ceremony.

As she walked down the aisle with her father , the grandeur of the ceremony washed over her. Jihoon waited at the altar, his expression formal, his eyes fixed on hers.

Their eyes met, and for a moment, Hana felt a spark of connection. But it was quickly extinguished by the realization that this was just a business arrangement.

As Hana reached the altar, Jihoon's gaze swept over her, his eyes lingering on the delicate lace and the subtle smile playing on her lips. For a moment, he forgot about the arrangement, the families' expectations, and the business deal. All he saw was the woman standing before him.

The ceremony began, and Hana's voice trembled slightly as she spoke her vows. Jihoon's voice was steady, but his eyes betrayed a hint of uncertainty.

As they exchanged rings, Hana felt a strange sense of finality. This was it. She was married.

As they exchanged rings, Jihoon's eyes locked onto Hana's, his gaze softening. Just then the Priest allowed them to kiss and seal their marriage with enternal promises and trust for each other.

He leaned forward, his lips brushing against her forehead in a gentle kiss.

Hana felt a shiver run down her spine, the tender gesture catching her off guard. It was a kiss that spoke of quiet intimacy, of promises and commitments.

For a moment, they stood there, frozen in time, the world around them melting away. Then, Jihoon stepped back, his expression composed once more.

The ceremony concluded, and they turned to face their families and friends, hand in hand. Hana's heart fluttered, unsure of what to make of the unexpected kiss.

As they turned to face their families and friends, Hana's eyes met Jihoon's, and for a moment, they just stared at each other. It was as if they were both wondering what they had gotten themselves into.

That day , Hana couldn't help but wonder what the next year would bring. Would they grow closer, or remain distant strangers?

And then, there was the divorce looming on the horizon. A reminder that their loveless marriage was only temporary.

( Flash back end )

both Hana and Jihoon sighed in unison at the thought of their loveless marriage in their own rooms . No body knows what this 1 year holds for them . ( Aov : but I know  * smirks )

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                ~To be continue~