\\TAEHYUNG\\

It has been months since I was in Canada away from Korea due to my work and my relaxation. Now that I am heading back to Korea to handle the matter there, I decided to go back.

As my Bugatti stepped onto the tarmac of the bustling airport in Canada, the cold wind nipped at my impeccably tailored suit, but I paid it no mind.

My private jet awaited me, a gleaming symbol of my power and success in the business world. I have the empowerment no one else can.

As I emerged from my Bugatti, the air seemed to shift, my guards falling into formation, their respectful bows a testament to my authority.

Several loyal sentinels surrounded me, their eyes keen and watchful as we made our way toward the awaiting air jet.

Every step I took resonated with purpose, my demeanor exuding dominance and control. The click of my polished shoes against the pavement echoed in the crisp air, a sound that seemed to command attention from all who dared to glance in my direction.

As we approached the jet, the staff stood at attention, ready to cater to my every need. With a wave of my hand, my suitcase was whisked away, disappearing into the depths of the air jet.

The pilot emerged with a respectful greeting on his lips, but his eyes held a glimmer of deference, acknowledging my status as a formidable force in the world of business.

"Hello, sir," he spoke, his tone respectful yet tinged with an underlying sense of admiration.

I returned the greeting with a nod, my demeanor cool and composed, a mask that concealed the sharp mind and calculated nature that lay beneath.

In this world, I was a man of strict principles, a master of both business and pleasure and as I stepped onto the air jet, the world seemed to bend to my will.

The pilot's question cut through the air, breaking the silence that hung heavy in the cabin. "Should I take off?" he inquired, his voice steady yet tinged with deference.

I met his gaze with a single nod, a silent command that spoke volumes of my authority. As I made my way into the opulent confines of my private room aboard the jet, a wave of relief washed over me, and the weight of the world momentarily lifted from my shoulders.

With practiced ease, I shed the trappings of formality, each button of my shirt coming undone with a flick of my wrist. My coat followed suit, slipping from my shoulders to the plush carpet below, a testament to the luxury that surrounded me.

In the solitude of my chamber, I allowed myself a moment of respite, sinking into the sumptuous depths of my chair. Here, I was king, ruler of my own domain, and the world outside seemed to fade into obscurity.

Yet, even in opulence, the shadows of my past lingered, haunting reminders of a life lived in the shadows.

Secrets lurked beneath the surface, hidden away from prying eyes, chief among them the tales of my conquests and my insatiable appetite for women, a well-guarded secret.

I am Taehyung Kim, CEO of KTH Empires, a titan of industry molded by the harsh realities of life. Raised in the absence of a mother's love, my upbringing was marred by the specter of my father's indiscretions, a legacy that shaped me into the man I had become.

As the pilot's voice echoed in the distance, a reminder of the world beyond these walls, I steeled myself for the journey ahead.

For in this realm of wealth and power, there was no room for weakness, and I, Taehyung Kim, would stop at nothing to conquer all that lay before me.

With a sense of purpose, I reclined in my chair, allowing the hum of the engines to drown out the noise of the outside world.

Each vibration beneath me served as a reminder of the power at my command, propelling me ever closer to my next conquest, both in business and in pleasure.

But amidst the solitude, a flicker of vulnerability pierced the facade of invincibility I wore so well. Memories of my mother, a fleeting presence in my life, danced at the edges of my consciousness, a reminder of the love I had been wanting as she died giving birth to me.

Maybe God thought she would never bear my devilish side; that's why he called her. I was the man who was raised without a mother. It's painful sometimes, but now I am fine with it. Hiding it under the disguise.

Yet, such sentiments were quickly brushed aside, buried beneath layers of ambition and desire. In this cutthroat world of business, sentimentality was a luxury I could ill afford, a weakness to be exploited by those who sought to undermine me.

As the jet soared through the skies, I allowed myself a moment of introspection, a rare glimpse into the depths of my own soul.

Under the veneer of confidence and control, there lay a man haunted by his past, driven by a hunger for success that knew no bounds.

And so, as the world stretched out before me, a vast expanse of opportunity and possibility, I steeled myself for the challenges that lay ahead. For in the game of power and influence, only the strong survived, and I, Taehyung Kim, intended to emerge victorious, no matter the cost.

I've never experienced love at first sight, nor have I ever felt the desire to chase after it. My relationships are fleeting, fueled by lust and the thrill of conquest. It's a cycle I've grown accustomed to, a pattern that defines my existence.

I have taken my family business to new heights. My mind swirls with dark thoughts, an ever-present companion in my journey through life.

I've always been a womanizer, navigating through relationships with the ease of a seasoned player. To me, love is a foreign concept, an emotion I've never truly felt. It's not born from heartbreak; it's simply not within my nature. I like women not out of love but because they are good at giving pleasure.

Even now, at forty, women still flock to me, drawn by the allure of my wealth and undeniable charm. But beneath the facade lies a void, an emptiness that no amount of money or physical beauty can fill.

As I reflect on my past and present, I can't help but feel a sense of despair. Is this all there is to life? A never-ending cycle of meaningless encounters, devoid of any real connection or emotion?

In the depths of my soul, I long for something more, something beyond the superficiality of my existence. But for now, I remain trapped in my own darkness, a prisoner of my own making.

Women come and go in my life like passing shadows. I enjoy their company and their presence, but love? That's a foreign concept. They're like toys to me, fleeting pleasures in a world devoid of deeper connections.

Even now, as they flock to me, I use them without remorse, for they mean nothing to me beyond momentary gratification. Love is a distant dream, a fantasy I've never dared to entertain.

I still remember when I was married to Jisoo. I was 25 years old, and she was 24. I thought I was in love with her, and we soon married, as she also belonged to a rich family. However, I soon got bored of her and slept with other women besides her.

When she found out, she became heartbroken, but I didn't care and divorced her. She started to blame me, but I didn't care, as I hate female dominance, and let her take the blame.

Then, after 3 years, when I was 28, a new girl named Sana, aged 26, entered my life. She was also from a wealthy family, and we were in a live-in relationship.

As I fell in love too fast, I agreed when she begged me to get married. My father was happy, but at the bachelor party, I slept with a prostitute. Sana found out and ended the relationship with me, but I didn't care and ended it myself.

After Sana left, I found myself once again adrift in the sea of my own desires. Then, when I was 30 years old, a young girl named Nayeon came into my life.

She was 29 years old and so good for the bed, and she also had a rich background, but I tossed her aside as she was too boring, and I disliked her body as she was so clingy.

The cycle repeated itself, as it always does. New faces, new conquests, but the same emptiness gnawing at my soul.

I tried to fill the void with fleeting pleasures, but each encounter left me feeling more hollow than before. Love remained elusive, a distant dream I dared not pursue.

Despite two previous relationships, I married Rena, both for the sake of my business and to show my ex-girlfriends that I could have a family.

Also, she agreed to a contract allowing me to divorce her whenever I wanted with no recourse for her, especially since she had lost her business.

Her father pleaded with my dad to arrange the marriage between us. We've been married for 5 years; Rena divorced her husband after he went bankrupt, and she began to pursue me.

Despite her advances, I knew she was only interested in me for her own benefit, especially since she was the ex-wife of my business partner.

I reluctantly married her to maintain appearances in society and due to my own ego issues stemming from past relationships. Our marriage was solely a business arrangement.

She has a son named Mingyu from her previous husband. I was never interested in starting a family with her, and even now, I prefer to focus on enjoying my freedom.

I don't care much for Rena or my stepson, Mingyu; I feel nothing but apathy for her. She's merely a pawn in the game I play, a testament to my ability to conform to societal norms.

As the years passed, I watched from the sidelines as others found happiness in the arms of their loved ones. But for me, such joy was nothing more than a distant echo, a melody I could never quite grasp.

And so, I continue to wander, a wanderer in search of something I may never find. What I want more... I can't commit to one woman because it's not in my nature, and I find the drama that often comes with relationships off-putting.

When faced with a woman's tears, I don't find myself swayed emotionally. My heart doesn't soften in the face of that kind of vulnerability. Instead, I value success, strength, and sovereignty.

My focus is on serenity, supremacy, strategy, and superiority. I am drawn to the allure of sex, seduction, and the exploration of submission and dominance in intimate encounters.

These are the aspects of life and relationships that captivate me. I need to be upfront about my intentions and what I seek in my interactions, ensuring that there are clear boundaries and expectations. This way, I can pursue my desires while avoiding unnecessary emotional entanglements.

As my private jet soared through the skies, carrying me back to Korea and the responsibilities awaiting me in my business and so-called family, a sudden knock interrupted my solitude. "Come inside," I called out, allowing the visitor entry.

In stepped a striking flight attendant, her allure evident with every step she took. With a coy smile, she handed me a glass of whiskey, perfectly prepared with a single ice cube. Our eyes met, and at that moment, she understood my preferences all too well.

A sense of emptiness lingered within me, but her presence sparked a flicker of excitement. She blushed and smiled flirtatiously, her charm not lost on me. Why not indulge? I pondered as a surge of energy coursed through me.

Without hesitation, I reached out and grasped her hand, pulling her closer to me. The woman, taken aback by my sudden assertiveness, yielded to my advances, her own intrigue evident in the way she responded.

I seized her by the neck, pressing her firmly against the wall. Our eyes locked, and I could see the fear flickering within hers.

Bringing my lips tantalizingly close to hers, I captured her lower lip, eliciting a moan from her. Her hands hung limply by her sides as she gazed into my eyes, utterly entranced.

With a firm grip on her hair, I intensified the hold, causing her to tilt her head back, her eyelids fluttering shut as another moan escaped her lips.

She was delicate and feminine, exactly how I preferred my staff to be—submissive and compliant. I admired everything about her, reveling in her obedience.

"Kneel," I commanded, and she obeyed without hesitation. I murmured words of approval, acknowledging her submission, and traced my thumb over her parted lips, which followed my command without question. She knew her place well, and I had no qualms about asserting my dominance.

Leaning her head back against the wall, I began to unzip my pants, anticipation coursing through me as I prepared to take what I desired. The flight attendant swallowed audibly, her wide eyes fixed on me with unwavering intensity.

"Pleasure me," I instructed calmly, gently brushing my thumb over her eyelids. "You won't open them until I permit it." My throbbing shaft emerged from my pants, rigid and almost painfully engorged. It pressed against the flight attendant's parted lips, her uncertainty palpable.

She had no idea what awaited her, I mused as I guided myself inside her mouth, pushing past her resistance until I reached the back of her throat. With a firm grip on her head, I prevented any movement, feeling the tightness around me as I pushed deeper.

A surge of pleasure washed over me as I felt her gag reflex kick in, her eyes widening in terror. It amused me to see the fear in her eyes as if she truly believed I might suffocate her.

I withdrew slowly, patting her cheek with an almost affectionate touch. Watching her calm down, I observed as she licked the thick saliva from her lips, the remnants of my intrusion still fresh in her throat.

"I'll hurt your mouth if you don't obey," I warned, my tone devoid of any emotion. The woman trembled slightly, seeking permission with her gaze.

"Can you?" I repeated, still expressionless. For a moment, she stared back at me with wide eyes, and then, after a few seconds, she nodded in affirmation.

Sliding my hands over her cheeks, I positioned her against the wall once more and guided my manhood back into her mouth.

She sealed her lips around me, and with each thrust of my hips, I felt her struggle to breathe. Eventually, she began to resist, prompting me to tighten my grip, ensuring her compliance.

Her nails dug into my legs, initially attempting to push me away before resorting to scratching. I reveled in the sensation, enjoying the resistance of a woman against my strength. Closing my eyes, I envisioned my lady, her commanding presence as she knelt above me, her penetrating gaze fueling my desire.

Tightening my grip on her hair, I felt the surge of lust intensify within me. Unable to contain myself any longer, I thrust twice more with all my strength before finally reaching my climax, releasing my seed into her mouth. As she struggled to swallow, I watched with satisfaction, admiring the smudged makeup and disheveled appearance she now bore.

Relaxing my hold, I leaned back slightly to give her space, allowing her to compose herself after our intense encounter.

"Swallow," I commanded, tugging at her hair once more. Tears streamed down her cheeks, but she dutifully followed my instructions. Removing my shaft from her mouth, she sank to her heels, leaning against the wall for support.

"Lick it," I ordered my tone firm. "To clean." Placing my hands on the wall in front of me, I watched her closely, a hint of anger in my gaze.

Reluctantly, she rose to her feet and took my manhood in her small hand, diligently licking away the remaining traces of sperm.

A faint smile tugged at the corners of my lips as I observed her efforts. When I judged her task to be complete, I stepped away from her, zipping up my pants.

"Good girl, now go," I said, offering her my arm. She hesitated for a moment before taking it, her legs trembling slightly as she stood beside me. With a nod, she made her way towards the door, eager to escape the confines of the encounter.

As she reached the door, I watched her depart with a sense of detachment. The encounter had left its mark, but I remained unmoved by her departure. She glanced back at me briefly before disappearing through the threshold, her demeanor a mix of relief and resignation.

Alone once more, I straightened my attire, adjusting my demeanor to one of composed authority. The incident was but a fleeting moment in the grand scheme of things, a mere distraction from the responsibilities awaiting me.

Turning my attention back to the task at hand, I refocused on the matters that awaited me in Korea. With a steely resolve, I prepared to face the challenges that lay ahead, confident in my ability to maintain control over both my business and my so-called family.

I settled into my seat, the hum of the jet's engines providing a backdrop to my thoughts. Suddenly, my iPhone rang, and I swiftly answered it. "Hello, Mr. Kim," a familiar voice greeted me. "It's me, the principal of prestigious Business University."

"Hello, Mr. Choihan," I replied, recognizing the caller. "I wanted to invite you to a competition," Mr. Choihan continued, his tone enthusiastic.

"I understand you're busy, but as a trustee of our college, I thought it would be fantastic if you and Mr. Kang could attend. It's our last year's students' graduation, and we're offering an internship program. I believe you should come and select our best candidates."

I inwardly bristled at the mention of my rival, Kang, knowing full well that this invitation stemmed from my stepson's university.

As a trustee, I'd never attended university competitions before, as I found them to be a waste of time and lacked interest. "I'll consider it, but I have no need for interns," I stated bluntly, cutting off any further discussion before ending the call.

The sun cast its final golden rays over the Korean landscape as my jet gracefully touched down at the airport.

Stepping out of the terminal, I slipped on my coat, the chill of the evening air reminding me of the world beyond the confines of my luxurious lifestyle.

My guards emerged from the private jet, their vigilant presence a reassuring constant. A sleek, brand-new car awaited me, gleaming in the fading light.

With practiced efficiency, my guards loaded my suitcase into the spacious trunk of my BMW, while the chauffeur stood ready, holding the door open for me.

"Sir, everything's ready," the chauffeur announced respectfully as I settled into the plush interior of the car.

"Excellent," I replied, my voice carrying a hint of authority. "Let's proceed to the mansion."

With a nod, the chauffeur closed the door, and the engine purred to life as we embarked on the journey home.

As my car began to move, the accompanying car carrying my guards followed suit, maintaining a protective perimeter around us.

The familiar sights of Korea passed by outside the window, a reminder of the power and influence that awaited me at my destination.

As I arrived at the mansion, the attentive chauffeur swiftly opened the door, allowing me to step out with an air of undeniable authority.

My guards followed closely behind, their watchful presence a silent testament to my status and power. With measured strides, I made my way toward the grand entrance, the weight of responsibility evident in every movement.

In the main hall, my wife Rena awaited me, her eyes alight with anticipation. Her smile, though genuine, failed to mask the underlying eagerness to please.

Rushing towards me, she greeted me with warmth, her words dripping with affection. "How are you, dear? I'm so happy you're back."

My response was curt, delivered in a cold voice devoid of emotion. "Yes, I am back, and now I need rest." Rena nodded obediently, her compliance a familiar trait that both amused and exasperated me.

She was a woman who lived to serve, utterly devoted to my well-being, yet blissfully unaware of her own insignificance in my greedy scheme.

As I observed her, I couldn't help but feel a sense of detachment, knowing that Rena's devotion was merely a means to an end.

She may be a fool, but her blind adoration served its purpose, allowing me to maintain control without resistance. With a dismissive nod, I brushed past her, heading towards the sanctuary of my room.

As my guards proceeded to take my suitcase into my room, I nodded in acknowledgment before dismissing them with a wave of my hand.

I placed my watch, iPhone, and wallet on my side table in bed, and I made my way to my closet, where rows of meticulously organized garments awaited me.

With practiced precision, I selected a pair of trousers and a crisp shirt, my preference for immaculate attire reflecting my commitment to maintaining appearances.

Entering the lavish bathroom adjoining my bedroom, I stripped my suit with fluid motions, the fabric falling to the marble floor in a silent cascade. With a deft hand, I adjusted the temperature of the shower, ensuring it was warm and inviting.

Stepping beneath the steady stream of water, I closed my eyes, allowing the heat to seep into my weary muscles. The sensation was both soothing and invigorating, washing away the remnants of the day's stress and tension.

As the water cascaded over me, I allowed myself a rare moment of solitude, relishing in the tranquility of the moment. Here, in the sanctuary of my own territory, I could shed the facade of power and control, if only temporarily, and simply exist in the present.

After indulging in the warmth of the shower, I emerged refreshed, the droplets of water glistening on my skin. With a plush towel, I carefully dried myself off, every movement deliberate and controlled.

Once dry, I slipped into the trousers and shirt I had selected earlier, ensuring each crease was smoothed out with precision.

As I stepped out of the bathroom, the fabric of my attire draped flawlessly over my frame, exuding an air of refinement and authority.

Approaching the vanity, I spared no detail in grooming myself to perfection. With practiced hands, I adjusted my hair, ensuring every strand fell into place with exacting precision. A subtle touch of perfume lingered in the air as I applied it with calculated restraint, the scent a reflection of my refined taste.

Turning my attention to my hands, I applied a soothing balm, massaging it into my skin with deliberate movements. Neatness and dominance were paramount to my persona, and every action was a testament to my unwavering commitment to both.

Satisfied with my appearance, I cast a final glance in the mirror, the reflection staring back at me and radiating confidence and control. With a sense of purpose, I left the vanity behind.

As I exited the room, I noticed Rena conversing with one of the maids. With a glance in my direction, she quickly turned her attention back to the maid.

I wasted no time in issuing my command. "Tell the maid to bring tea to my study room," I instructed Rena, my tone firm and expectant. Rena nodded obediently, accustomed to fulfilling my every order without question.

Making my way to my study room, I entered the sanctuary of my room. Here, amidst the shelves lined with books and the imposing desk at its center, I found solace and clarity of mind. It was a space reserved for contemplation and strategy, free from the distractions of the outside world.

Beyond the confines of the mansion lay my penthouse, a haven where I indulged in solitude and self-discipline.

Equipped with a private gym and adorned with luxurious amenities, it was a realm reserved solely for my own goals.

Here, I could focus on honing my physical and mental prowess without the interference of others. Women were never allowed entry into this sacred space; it was a sanctuary reserved exclusively for my personal use.

As I settled into my study room, anticipation simmered within me. Here, amidst the quietude of my sanctuary, I could delve into the matters that demanded my attention, undisturbed by the trivialities of the outside world.

After a minute elapsed, a gentle knock sounded on the door. Granting permission for entry, I observed the maid enter, bearing a tray adorned with tea. Despite her attempt at a seductive smile, I remained indifferent, my focus directed elsewhere.

"Sir, Master Mingyu has returned from the university and requests to talk with you, as he asked me to tell you," she informed me, her voice soft but respectful.

Acknowledging her message with a nod, I dismissed the maid, declining any further interaction. Turning my attention to the tea before me, I took a sip, the warmth of the beverage providing a fleeting sense of solace amidst the tumult of the evening.

Suddenly, voices erupted from outside, drawing my attention away from the tranquility of my study room. Sensing tension in the air, I hurried outside to investigate, my steps quickening with each passing moment.

As I emerged, I was met with a scene that caught me off guard—my stepson, Mingyu, and Rena engaged in a heated argument. Their voices reverberated through the air, drawing the attention of onlookers who observed the spectacle with rapt attention.

"Mum, please, at least meet her. I love her," Mingyu pleaded, desperation evident in his voice.

Rena's response was sharp and unforgiving. "I won't! You know I don't like that middle-class girl," she retorted, her tone laced with disdain.

"I want to marry Lisa. She's the one I love," Mingyu insisted, his voice tinged with defiance.

Rena's resolve remained unyielding. "Maybe she's a gold digger. I won't listen to anyone. I want you to marry Mira Kang, my friend's daughter; at least she has status," she declared, her words dripping with contempt.

As I listened to their exchange, a surge of anger ignited within me. Kang's name being mentioned only fueled the flames of my rage.

I had always maintained a distance from familial disputes, but now I realize I have to intervene. This was just about my interests; it wasn't about protecting Mingyu from making a mistake that could affect his future. I can't tolerate my daughter being the daughter-in-law in my presence.

As I approached the scene with authority radiating from every step, I cast a commanding gaze upon the assembled staff, compelling them to part and make way for my approach. With a sharp intake of breath, I raised my voice, cutting through the chaos with a tone of unwavering dominance.

"Stop, both of you!" I commanded, my voice echoing through the halls with forceful authority. Rena and Mingyu turned toward me; their expressions were a mix of apprehension and defiance. Rena's gaze wavered slightly, betraying a hint of fear, while Mingyu's eyes blazed with unchecked rage.

"What's going on here?" I demanded, my tone brooking no argument. "This is a mansion, not a marketplace. We have rules and regulations in place, and I expect you to adhere to them. Behave with dignity and respect, or there will be consequences."

My words hung heavy in the air, a stern reminder of the standards that must be upheld within these walls. As the tension began to dissipate, I awaited their response, prepared to enforce discipline if necessary.

As Mingyu barely contained his frustration, he shouted, "Dad, let me talk to Mom now, please." I swiftly raised my voice in response, commanding him to lower his tone. "Mingyu, lower your voice. I am your stepfather, and I am listening. I won't tolerate any drama."

Rena attempted to interject, pleading, "Dear, please let me." However, I raised my hand to silence her, asserting my authority. "Wait, Rena. Let Mingyu explain. Don't interrupt."

The air crackled with tension as I waited for Mingyu to speak, determined to maintain order and resolve the situation with clarity and authority.

As Mingyu locked eyes with me, his voice held a mix of determination and vulnerability. "Dad, I love a girl named Lisa Manoban. She's my classmate, and I simply want to marry her. But Mother insists I marry Mira, whom I don't love. I wanted to talk to you about it, but I thought I could ask Mom first."

Rena's outburst followed swiftly, her voice filled with disdain. "Because Mira comes from a respectable family, unlike Lisa."

Reacting swiftly, I raised my hand, silencing Rena. "Don't speak when I'm addressing someone else. Let the person speak. I seek peace within my mansion. Rena, allow me to handle this matter concerning our son."

Turning my attention back to Mingyu, I listened intently as he poured his heart out. "Dad, I'm committed to Lisa. She's a wonderful girl, and she's had a positive influence on me. If you'd like, I can introduce her to you. Please, give her a chance. She's changed me for the better, and she's the right choice for my future."

His words struck a chord within me, stirring a mixture of amusement and curiosity. How could a girl have such a profound impact on Mingyu, especially considering his past as a playboy, much like myself?

Yet, I remained intrigued by the girl who had seemingly transformed my stepson into a devoted lover. I mused internally, confident in my own resistance to such changes, knowing that no woman could alter my demeanor or priorities.

Addressing Mingyu, I acknowledged his sentiment with a measured response. "Well, I suppose it's a matter of love, and you're not entirely wrong," I conceded, albeit with a hint of skepticism.

Rena attempted to interject once more, but I silenced her with a stern glare. My mind raced with thoughts of strategy, recognizing the potential leverage that Mingyu's girlfriend could provide in avoiding the union with Kang's daughter.

It was imperative to play the role of the supportive father, albeit with ulterior motives, for the sake of my interests. With a sigh, I acquiesced to Mingyu's request. "Fine, tell that girl to come to dinner tonight. We'll meet her then," I stated, feeling a mixture of resignation and curiosity.

Mingyu's face lit up with gratitude as he enveloped me in a sudden hug, but I quickly pushed him away, reminding him to maintain decorum.

"Stay within bounds, boy. I merely want to assess this girl's suitability for our family," I cautioned, tempering his enthusiasm. Mingyu nodded eagerly, understanding the gravity of the situation.

Rena, however, couldn't resist questioning my sudden change of heart. "Dear, you've always emphasized the importance of status. What's different now?" She queried, her tone tinged with skepticism.

Raising my hand to silence her, I replied tersely, "I'll discuss this with you later, Rena. Join me in my study room." With a decisive gesture, I directed the maid to prepare dinner, eager to conclude the discussion and move forward with my plans.

Turning my attention back to Mingyu, I issued a final command. "Are you satisfied now? Go and call her," I instructed, a sense of anticipation building within me as I awaited the arrival of the girl who had managed to captivate my stepson's heart.

Mingyu looked at me with uncertainty, his voice filled with hesitation. "Sure, Dad, but at this time?"

I nodded, considering his request. "Why not? Just inform her, or better yet, send the driver to fetch her from her home if it's that much of an issue; I want to meet here at dinner," I suggested, my tone tinged with impatience.

Mingyu nodded in understanding before I dismissed him, turning my attention to the solitude of my study room. Rena trailed behind me, her expression troubled as she attempted to reason with me.

"I don't understand what's going on in your mind, but please try to see reason," she implored, her voice tinged with concern.

I scoffed at her pleas, my frustration bubbling to the surface. "You need to understand, Rena. If you had raised your son properly, he wouldn't have fallen into the clutches of that middle-class girl. I have my rules, and now, if you're willing to sacrifice your son, so be it. I'm only trying to salvage his reputation, which is inexorably linked to mine and yours as well," I retorted, my words dripping with disdain.

She gazed at me, her eyes searching for clarity amidst the tension that hung in the air. "What do you mean?" she inquired, her voice tinged with apprehension.

I met her gaze, my expression unyielding. "Mingyu is under the influence of this girl, and if you exert pressure on him, he won't heed your words," I explained, my tone laced with frustration.

"Let's just meet the girl, and if she meets our standards, then there's no issue. You need to prioritize Mingyu's happiness above all else," I advised, my words carrying a sense of resignation.

Rena contemplated my words, her brow furrowed in concern. "But what about our reputation?" she pressed, her voice faltering with uncertainty.

I sighed, understanding her apprehension. "Our reputation will remain intact as long as we handle this situation with care and discretion. Let's focus on ensuring Mingyu's well-being and happiness for now," I fib her, hoping to ease her fears amidst the tumultuous circumstances.

She looked at me with determination, her words firm and unwavering. "I respect your decision, but I cannot accept her as my daughter-in-law," she declared, her gaze steady despite the tension in the room.

I scoffed at her defiance, incredulous at her audacity to challenge my authority. "Did you just dare to defy my decision?" I demanded, my voice laced with anger.

Her expression faltered, fear flickering in her eyes as she quickly shook her head. "No, I'm sorry," she stammered, her voice trembling with apprehension.

I remained unmoved by her apology, my resolve unyielding. "Then go and instruct the maid to prepare dinner. We have a guest coming tonight, and it's all because of your mistakes. Your son will be bringing the girl; now get out and ask the staff to prepare dinner, and don't dare to do anything that will make me twist my mind," I admonished, my tone dripping with disdain as I emphasized the consequences of her actions.

As Rena nodded in fear and then exited the room, leaving behind a lingering tension in her wake, I sank into my chair, the weight of the situation pressing down upon me. With a heavy sigh, I closed my eyes, allowing the tranquility of the room to envelop me.

Thoughts raced through my mind as I contemplated the impending meeting with Mingyu's girlfriend. I knew that navigating this delicate situation would require finesse and strategy.

Despite my outward composure, I couldn't shake the gnawing uncertainty that gnawed at the edges of my consciousness.