Chapter 18: The Harsh Judgment

The office buzzed with activity when YN arrived that morning, trying to immerse herself in work to escape the emotional weight from the previous day. Seokjin was already at his desk, his usual cheerful demeanour masking a hint of concern.

"Morning, YN. How are you holding up?" Seokjin asked, his eyes reflecting genuine worry.

YN forced a smile. "I’m managing. Thanks for asking, Seokjin."

As they delved into their tasks, the office seemed more tense than usual. Whispers and glances followed YN, and Seokjin noticed the subtle shift in the atmosphere. Just then, the door to the office swung open, and YN’s father, Lee Jong Suk, entered with a commanding presence.

The staff fell silent, their curiosity palpable. Seokjin’s gaze sharpened as he saw Lee Jong Suk approach, recognizing the seriousness of the situation.

“Mr. Lee,” Seokjin greeted, standing up with a polite but firm demeanor. “What can I do for you?”

Lee Jong Suk’s eyes narrowed as he took in Seokjin’s stance and the way he carried himself. “I need to speak with YN. Alone.”

YN’s stomach twisted with apprehension as she glanced at Seokjin. “It’s okay, Seokjin. I’ll handle this.”

Seokjin hesitated, his protective instincts flaring. “Alright, but if you need anything—”

“I’ll be fine,” YN interrupted gently. “Thank you.”

With a final, concerned look, Seokjin nodded and stepped back, allowing Lee Jong Suk to follow YN to a private conference room. As the door closed behind them, YN felt a knot tighten in her chest.

Lee Jong Suk wasted no time. “YN, I’ve heard troubling rumors about your relationship with Seokjin. It’s causing quite a stir.”

YN’s heart sank. “Rumors? What are people saying?”

Her father’s eyes were hard. “People are talking about how close you’ve become with him. It’s not just idle gossip there are serious concerns about his background and intentions.”

YN felt a flush of anger. “Seokjin is an excellent professional and a good person. Why are you so quick to judge him?”

Lee Jong Suk’s expression hardened. “This isn’t just about judgment. I’ve done my research. Seokjin doesn’t come from a family of means. His background is modest compared to what you’re used to. Associating with him could damage your reputation and complicate matters.”

YN’s eyes widened in shock. “You’re judging him based on his background? That’s not fair, Father. Seokjin has always treated me with respect and kindness.”

“I’m concerned for your future,” Lee Jong Suk said, his tone unyielding. “It’s not just about Seokjin. This could affect the business, the family name, everything we’ve worked for. You need to think about the implications of your choices.”

YN’s frustration boiled over. “And what about my happiness? Do my feelings mean nothing to you?”

Lee Jong Suk sighed heavily. “YN, I understand that you’re emotional, but you need to be practical. This isn’t just about your personal life, it affects the family and our business.”

The tension in the room was palpable. YN’s eyes were filled with tears, her voice trembling. “I thought you’d support me. I thought you’d understand that I want to make my own decisions.”

Lee Jong Suk’s expression softened slightly, but his resolve remained. “I do support you, YN. But I need you to see the bigger picture. This relationship with Seokjin is more complicated than you realize.”

Before YN could respond, Seokjin knocked and entered the room, his expression a mix of concern and determination. “Mr. Lee, if I may speak…”

Lee Jong Suk’s eyes flicked to Seokjin, his gaze cold. “Seokjin, this isn’t the time.”

Seokjin’s voice was steady. “I understand your concerns, Mr. Lee. But I care deeply for YN. I may not have the background you expected, but my intentions are genuine. I’m here to support her, not to cause trouble.”

Lee Jong Suk’s eyes narrowed. “Support doesn’t erase the concerns I have. This isn’t just about you or YN. It’s about everything that’s at stake.”

Seokjin took a step forward, his voice firm but respectful. “If you truly care about YN, then you should respect her choices. She deserves to be happy, and she deserves to make her own decisions about who she wants in her life.”

Lee Jong Suk’s face was a mask of disappointment and frustration. “This isn’t just about happiness, Seokjin. It’s about responsibility and reputation. You need to understand that.”

With that, Lee Jong Suk turned on his heel and walked out, leaving YN and Seokjin alone. The air was thick with unresolved tension.

YN turned to Seokjin, her eyes red. “I’m so sorry. I didn’t expect this…”

Seokjin reached out, gently touching her arm. “You don’t need to apologise. We’ll figure this out together. No matter what happens, I’m here for you.”

YN nodded, taking comfort in his presence despite the turmoil. “Thank you, Seokjin. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

As they stood together in the silence that followed, they both knew that the road ahead would be fraught with challenges. But with each other’s support, they were ready to face whatever came their way.

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