Chapter 34: A New Challenger Appears

The atmosphere was electric at the annual Seoul Business Gala, a high-profile event that brought together the crème de la crème of South Korea's business elite. The grand ballroom of the InterContinental Hotel glittered with opulence, as chandeliers cast a soft, golden light over the impeccably dressed attendees. YN stood tall in her sleek, midnight-blue gown, exuding confidence and grace. Her presence commanded attention, a testament to her success and stature in the business world.

Seokjin, always by her side, cut a striking figure in his tailored tuxedo. His broad shoulders filled out the jacket perfectly, and his tall frame made him stand out even in the crowded room. His hair was neatly styled, his monolid eyes sharp and observant. Yet, despite his imposing appearance, there was a warmth in his demeanour, a lightness that balanced YN's more serious aura.

"World Wide Handsome, you know," Seokjin whispered into YN’s ear, making her stifle a giggle. His self-assured grin was infectious, and YN couldn’t help but smile.

"Yes, yes, Seokjin. I’m well aware," she replied, rolling her eyes playfully.

As they navigated through the crowd, exchanging pleasantries with fellow business leaders, YN couldn't help but feel a deep sense of pride. She had worked tirelessly to reach this point, and having Seokjin by her side made everything even more perfect. But as the evening wore on, that perfection was about to be challenged.

From across the room, a pair of piercing eyes had been watching YN and Seokjin intently. The eyes belonged to Jang Minseo, a powerful businesswoman known for her ruthless tactics and impeccable style. Dressed in a figure-hugging crimson gown, Minseo exuded confidence and allure. Her every move was calculated, her every word carefully chosen. Minseo was not only a force to be reckoned with in the business world but also someone who knew how to get what she wanted and tonight, her target was Seokjin.

Minseo sauntered over to YN and Seokjin with an air of superiority. She extended her hand to Seokjin first, her smile both charming and predatory.

"Mr. Kim, it's a pleasure to finally meet you. I’ve heard so much about your work," Minseo said, her voice smooth as silk.

Seokjin, ever the gentleman, shook her hand but sensed the underlying tension. "The pleasure is mine, Ms. Jang," he replied, keeping his tone neutral.

YN, who had been observing the exchange with narrowed eyes, felt a twinge of discomfort. Something about Minseo's approach set off alarm bells in her mind. The way Minseo's gaze lingered on Seokjin, the subtle undertones in her voice it all felt too familiar. Minseo was a predator, and YN instinctively knew she was after something or someone important to her.

Minseo finally turned to YN, her smile never faltering. "YN, it's always a delight to see you. You've done quite well for yourself, haven’t you?"

"Thank you, Minseo," YN replied coolly. "I see you're still making waves in the industry as well.

"Minseo chuckled, a sound that lacked any real warmth. "Oh, you know me, always on the lookout for new opportunities." Her eyes flickered back to Seokjin. "Speaking of opportunities, I hear you’ve got quite a talent here with Mr. Kim. It must be… convenient to have someone so capable at your side."

YN’s jaw tightened, but she maintained her composure. "Seokjin is an invaluable part of my team," she said firmly, slipping her hand into Seokjin’s arm in a subtle gesture of possessiveness.

"Is that so?" Minseo's smile widened, but it didn’t reach her eyes. "Well, in our line of work, it's important to keep our assets close, isn’t it? But sometimes… it's easy to lose sight of what's really valuable."

Seokjin, sensing the rising tension, placed his other hand over YN’s, giving it a gentle squeeze. "I’m fortunate to work with someone as brilliant as YN," he said, his voice steady. "We make a great team."

Minseo’s gaze hardened, just for a moment, before she masked it with another charming smile. "I’m sure you do," she purred. "But remember, Mr. Kim, there are always… better offers out there."

The insinuation was clear, and YN felt a surge of protectiveness over Seokjin. Minseo was not just eyeing him professionally, she was challenging YN personally, testing the strength of their relationship.

Before YN, could respond, Seokjin stepped forward, effectively placing himself between YN and Minseo. "I appreciate the advice, Ms. Jang," he said, his tone polite but firm. "But I’m exactly where I want to be."

Minseo’s eyes flashed with irritation at being rebuffed so directly, but she quickly recovered. "Of course," she said with a feigned smile. "But if you ever change your mind, Mr. Kim, you know where to find me."

With that, Minseo gave them both a curt nod and walked away, her presence leaving a chill in the air.

YN let out a breath she didn’t realise she’d been holding. "What the hell was that about?" she muttered under her breath.

Seokjin turned to her, his expression softening. "Just a power play, YN. Don’t let it get to you."

YN nodded, but the encounter had rattled her. Minseo was a formidable adversary, and YN knew this wouldn’t be the last time they’d cross paths. The rivalry had been ignited, and YN was determined not to let Minseo get the upper hand—either in business or in her relationship with Seokjin.

As the evening wore on, YN couldn’t shake the feeling of unease. Seokjin, sensing her mood, leaned in close, his breath warm against her ear. "Don’t worry, YN. I’m not going anywhere."

YN smiled, grateful for his reassurance. "You better not, Seokjin. I don’t know what I’d do without you."

Seokjin grinned, that playful spark returning to his eyes. "You’d probably have to find another World Wide Handsome. But good luck with that, there’s only one of me."

YN laughed, the tension easing slightly. But as she looked across the room and saw Minseo mingling with other guests, a steely determination settled in her heart. She had fought too hard to get to where she was, and she wasn’t about to let anyone, not even someone as powerful as Jang Minseo, take away what was hers.

And most importantly, she wasn’t going to let anyone come between her and Seokjin. Not now, not ever.

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