\\TAEHYUNG\\

I made my way to my room to get my cigarette box and my car keys, Retrieving a cigarette, I paused as suddenly my iPhone popped a sound and I pulled out, only to discover a text message nestled among them.

It was from Irene, my mistress: "I'm wet; I need punishment, sir. Please, when will you come?" My arousal surged at her words, and I sighed, feeling the familiar tightening in my pants.

Irene understood me well; she sensed my mood and knew that the upcoming meeting would not be pleasant. She also knew how to seduce me. She is a skilled vixen.

"Be ready for twenty at my penthouse, but in my guest room you are not allowed to go in my bedroom," I replied briefly, acknowledging her understanding of my needs.

Leaving the room behind, I stepped outside, only to encounter Mingyu blocking my path. His expression was earnest as he said, "Dad, thank you."

I met his gaze, my mind preoccupied with the complexities of the situation. "Your mother isn't feeling well because of Lisa. Let me handle this matter myself. You've upset your mother," I replied, my tone tinged with a mix of frustration and hate.

"I understand, Dad, but I love Lisa." As Mingyu expressed his love for Lisa, a surge of anger and resentment welled up within me.

I fought against the impulse to lash out, struggling to understand why I harbored such jealousy towards their relationship.

Taking a deep breath, I forced myself to maintain composure and hold back the urge to react impulsively.

"Where are you going?" Mingyu's question interrupted my inner turmoil.

I shot him a sharp glance, irritated by his prying. "Do I have to answer everything to you and your mother? Don't forget your limits," I retorted, my frustration evident in my tone.

Mingyu quickly backtracked, sensing my agitation. "Sorry, Dad. I know you've never come in between my life and our family's. The way you've stood up for me means a lot," he apologized earnestly.

His words softened my resolve, momentarily quelling the storm of emotions raging within me. I observed the change in him, marveling at the transformation from a rebellious youth to a mature young man.

"You've changed, Mingyu. It's like you were never like that," I remarked, acknowledging his growth.

He chuckled softly, his eyes shining with sincerity. "Yes, Dad. It's because of Lisa. I love her. I know I used to be a playboy, but I've changed. I love her," he confessed, his words carrying a weight of conviction that left me speechless.

Leaning in closer to him, I posed the question with a smirk playing on my lips. "So you haven't had any physical relationship with that young girl until now?"

His eyes widened in surprise, and his response was swift and defensive. "Dad, she's not like that. She's very traditional and sensitive. She has her limits," he explained earnestly.

My smirk widened, a sense of amusement tinged with a hint of mischief coursing through me. Now, I thought to myself, I'll take pleasure in testing the limits of her patience and resolve.

With practiced ease, I masked my devious intentions behind a facade of sincerity as I turned to Mingyu. "Well, Lisa is indeed a good girl," I said, my voice carefully modulated to hide any hint of malice. "In this era, finding someone as pure as her is a rarity. But fear not for I shall assist you both. Lisa has certainly made quite an impression."

As I spoke, I couldn't help but revel in the twisted game I was playing, manipulating the situation to suit my own desires. Little did Mingyu know, he was merely a pawn in my intricate plan, a means to an end in my quest for dominance and control.

Behind my seemingly innocuous words lay a darker truth, a revelation of the sinister depths of my nature. As I watched Mingyu's expression shift with a mix of gratitude and naivety, I knew that my plans were already set in motion.

He looked at me earnestly, his question breaking through my thoughts. "Dad, will you come tomorrow to the university?" he asked.

I nodded, masking my true intentions behind a facade of support. "I will surely come," I replied, concealing my ulterior motives.

Inwardly, I couldn't help but entertain a mischievous thought. Why not, my dear foolish stepson? I'll come for your cute, sexy girlfriend, I mused, a sly grin creeping across my face.

As I fixed my gaze on Mingyu, I uttered firmly, "Refrain from disturbing me for now." He acknowledged me with a nod and made his way out of the room, leaving me to exit the mansion accompanied by my guard.

Han Jee awaited outside, his stance respectful as he bowed before me. "Sir, where would you like to go?" he inquired, his eyes attentive.

"Take me to my penthouse," I instructed, meeting his gaze with a steely resolve. With a confirming nod, he swiftly retrieved my BMW from the garage, and the chauffeur opened the door with deference as I settled into the plush seat, enveloped in an aura of cold detachment.

Watching the world outside blur by through the car window, I closed my eyes briefly, only to find myself consumed once more by thoughts of Lisa. Instantly, desire surged through me, my body reacted with a swift, primal response.

"I'll lose my mind if I can't have her," I muttered to myself, the longing evident in my voice.

"I yearn to inhale the scent of her hair and feel the softness of her skin against mine; I need to control her; she is not the one I need now; I can't have her; I need to use her only because I can't let my stepson marry my rival daughter," I mused, the intensity of my desire palpable.

As the car came to a stop upon reaching my destination, I stepped out, greeted by my guard, who promptly opened the door to my penthouse.

Stepping inside, I was caught off guard by the sudden presence of Irene, her smile illuminating the room.

"Here I am," she announced, her grin infectious. Damn, I cursed inwardly, realizing I had completely overlooked her presence.

Irene approached me, and I instinctively pulled her close, leading her to the guest room, where I pushed her against the desk.

With a gentle gesture, she parted her knees, the intoxicating scent of her arousal filling the air—a familiar and irresistible allure.

She deftly hitched up her skimpy black silk cocktail dress, straddling me with a boldness that matched her attire.

Leaning against the desk, I was taken aback as her tongue pressed into my mouth with a suddenness that electrified the moment.

"F-ck me," she demanded, sinking her teeth into my lip while provocatively rubbing herself against the fabric of my suit pants—a sensation that sent a shiver down my spine.

As she tantalizingly licked and nibbled at my ear, my gaze wandered to the scattered photos on the desk. With a swift movement, I shed my previously loosened button, allowing it to fall to the floor, revealing Irene's appreciative smile as she licked her lips in anticipation.

With a seductive gesture, she traced her fingers along the surface of the table, spreading her legs wide and positioning herself on the oak countertop, her bottom provocatively raised. Without hesitation, I approached her from behind, my desire mounting with each passing moment.

With a sudden burst of intensity, I delivered a firm blow, causing her to let out a piercing scream, her mouth gaping wide in shock.

The sight of her vulnerability only served to fuel the desire raging within me, compounded by the relentless image of Lisa that haunted my thoughts, leaving me painfully aroused and utterly consumed.

"Oh, yes," I growled, my fingers eagerly exploring her moist folds, though my gaze remained fixated on the image of Lisa burned into my mind.

With a sudden surge of desire, I grasped her by the neck, hoisting her onto the countertop and restraining her hands above her head. At that moment, nothing else mattered—I was consumed by an insatiable hunger.

With a sense of urgency, I discarded my pants, ready to indulge in the passion that pulsed between us. 

As I slid two fingers inside Irene, she responded with a fervent moan, her body squirming beneath mine. Her tightness, combined with her overwhelming heat, only fueled my desire further.

I focused on her pleasure, skillfully manipulating her clitoral area with my free hand, causing her to grip the desk with newfound intensity.

With a firm grip on her neck, I delivered a sharp blow, eliciting a mixture of pleasure and relief from her trembling form.

Once more, I shut my eyes, envisioning Lisa with every strike, each impact driving me to greater heights of ecstasy.

My mistress screamed, and I thrashed her relentlessly as if each strike could somehow transform her into Lisa.

Her buttocks bore the marks of my fervor, almost purple from the force of my blows. Leaning in, I began to jab her, the heat and throbbing sensation igniting a primal desire within me. With a forceful push, all the while consumed by visions of Lisa.

"Yes," she moaned softly, but her voice was a mere echo against the overwhelming intensity of my longing for Lisa.

I must have her, I thought, as I withdrew from Irene's embrace, my gaze fixed on her with an unyielding hunger. As I thrust into her relentlessly, still lost in the fantasy of Lisa, I knew my climax was imminent.

In a moment, those captivating black eyes would gaze upon me as she kneeled before me, fulfilling my every desire.

"You bitch!" I snarled through clenched teeth, feeling Irene's body stiffen beneath me. Ignoring her cries of ecstasy, I pressed harder, driven by the unrelenting image of Lisa.

Unable to resist any longer, I withdrew from Irene and plunged into her narrow asshole, eliciting a wild cry of both pain and pleasure.

As she tightened around me, my release erupted, and all I could see was Lisa, her image burning brightly in my mind as I surrendered to the overwhelming ecstasy of the moment.

It's something new that I f-ck a woman while imagining another girl; it's none other than my stepson's girlfriend, Lisa, and it's just after one meeting.

Such a shit...

As we finished, I took a deep breath and adjusted my pants, casting a stern gaze at her. "Now, leave. I need rest," I commanded.

She hesitated before asking, "Can I stay with you, sir?"

I scoffed at her audacity. "I've never allowed a woman in my penthouse. I don't sleep with women; I merely satisfy my desires. Just stay within your limits, and don't dare show your face again."

She quickly dressed herself, visibly shaken by my anger. I reiterated, "I won't hesitate to replace you with someone else. Enjoy my money, that's all. And don't bore me before your time is up."

With a fearful nod, she understood the gravity of my warning and swiftly left, knowing the consequences of testing my patience further.

As I entered my bedroom, a sanctuary of solitude where every detail catered to my liking, a sense of tranquility washed over me.

Making my way to the bathroom, I indulged in the luxury of my surroundings, the opulent fixtures and plush towels a testament to my wealth and status.

With practiced efficiency, I stripped off my clothes and tossed them into the laundry basket, the action almost mechanical in its execution.

Stepping into the warm embrace of the shower, I let the water cascade over me, washing away the grime and stress of the day.

But as I closed my eyes, seeking solace in the solitude of the moment, her image invaded my thoughts once more.

Lisa.

The mere thought of her sent a surge of desire coursing through me, igniting a fire that refused to be extinguished. But I quelled the flames of longing, steeling myself against the temptation that threatened to consume me whole.

Taking a deep breath, I reached for the bath soap, the familiar scent enveloping me in its comforting embrace. With deliberate care, I lathered my skin, the rhythmic motion a soothing balm to my restless soul.

But despite my efforts to banish her from my mind, Lisa lingered in the recesses of my thoughts, her presence a constant reminder of the forbidden desires that simmered beneath the surface.

As I succumbed to the intoxicating allure of the steamy embrace of the shower, I knew that no amount of soap and water could cleanse me of the monster that lay buried within my heart.

As the water cascaded over me, washing away the remnants of the day, I allowed myself a moment of respite, a brief reprieve from the turmoil that raged within.

With each passing second, the tension ebbed from my muscles, leaving behind a sense of calm that was as fleeting as it was precious.

Stepping out of the shower, I wrapped myself in a plush towel, the soft fabric a welcome comfort against my skin.

With practiced ease, I dried myself off, lingering for a moment to relish the warmth that still lingered in the air.

Making my way to the closet, I selected a pair of comfortable sweatpants, slipping them on with effortless grace.

The familiar feel of the fabric against my skin brought a sense of familiarity and ease, a small comfort in the chaos that threatened to engulf me.

Leaving the bathroom behind, I returned to the sanctuary of my bedroom, the darkness enveloping me like a comforting embrace. With a flick of a switch, I dim the light, plunging the room into shadow.

Climbing into bed, I allowed myself to succumb to the sweet embrace of sleep, the weight of the day's troubles fading into oblivion.

In the darkness, I found solace, a fleeting moment of peace in a world fraught with chaos and uncertainty.

And as I drifted off into the realm of sleep I knew that tomorrow would bring with it a new set of challenges, but for now, I allowed myself the luxury of surrendering to the gentle embrace of slumber.

\\LISA\\

As I arrived home and stepped out of the car, I gently tapped on the door. My heart raced with anticipation as I watched my father swing it open, welcoming me inside. My mother's concerned gaze met mine, and she asked, "Lisa, is everything alright?"

A grin spread across my face as I replied, "Yes, Mother. Mingyu's father has accepted me, but his mother hasn't yet. However, they've promised to discuss it, and Mingyu assured me he'd do everything for us."

Dad beamed with pride, chiming in, "I'm delighted to hear that, just as your mother told me, dear." We settled onto the couch, and I began recounting every detail, feeling a rush of relief and excitement.

"Our daughter will make us proud," my mother remarked, her voice filled with unwavering belief.

Dad's voice echoed with warmth and pride as he said, "Lisa, get some rest. Tomorrow is your competition, and congratulations, my girl, for securing the top spot at the university. We're so proud of you. Now, tell me, what can I do for you?"

I met his gaze, feeling overwhelmed by his kindness. "All I ask for is your blessing and love," I replied, my heart overflowing with gratitude and love for my supportive family.

Dad's eyes softened, reflecting the depth of his affection. "You have our blessing, Lisa," he said, his voice filled with warmth and reassurance. "And our love will always be with you, guiding you through every triumph and challenge."

Tears welled up in my eyes, touched by their unwavering support. "Thank you. Now, I need rest, and don't worry about dinner; I already had dinner at Mingyu's mansion," I whispered, feeling a surge of gratitude.

Dad glanced at me, concern flickering in his eyes. "It's good that they like you, especially his stepfather. I've heard he's a very sharp businessman and quite strict with his rules," he remarked.

I nodded in agreement. "Yes, he was," I confirmed softly. In that moment, surrounded by the love of my family, I felt an overwhelming sense of strength and resilience.

With their unwavering support, I knew I could conquer anything that lay ahead. As I retreated to my room, their words echoed in my mind, filling me with determination and confidence.

With their love as my anchor, I felt ready to face whatever the future held, knowing that no matter what, I would always have my family by my side.

I made my way to my closet, each step feeling heavier than the last as I wrestled with conflicting emotions.

Standing in front of my wardrobe, I hesitated before selecting my pajamas, the simple act feeling like a monumental decision.

Finally settling onto my bed, I sank into the softness of the mattress, yet my mind refused to find solace. Fingers absently scrolled through my phone, but even the distraction it provided couldn't silence the persistent thoughts of someone I shouldn't be thinking about—"uncle" as I sarcastically referred to him in my mind.

Taehyung Kim

His presence lingered, an unwelcome guest in my thoughts. Frustration boiled as I grappled with guilt for feeling drawn to him instead of my boyfriend.

Despite efforts to resist, the pull toward this other man was undeniable. It was a battle I didn't want to fight, contrasting sharply with the simplicity of my connection with Mingyu. Now, that CEO uncle has overshadowed Mingyu in my mind, leaving me troubled and unsure.

I'm torn between my principles and the undeniable allure of an older man, whom I should respect, not desire.

Despite my efforts, these forbidden thoughts persist, leaving me exhausted from the mental battle. I yearn for solace within my own mind, but the memory of that alluring 'uncle' lingers.

Yet I'm steadfast in my resolve to uphold my own boundaries, no matter how tempting the forbidden fruit may be.

As much as the attraction tugs at me, I remind myself of the importance of loyalty and commitment to my boyfriend. I refuse to let fleeting desires cloud my judgment or jeopardize the trust we've built.

With a deep breath, I steel myself against the allure and focus on nurturing the love and connection I share with Mingyu. It won't be easy, but I'm determined to stay true to myself and the promises I've made.

Closing my eyes, I seek refuge in the tranquility of the moment, determined to find peace amidst the storm of conflicting emotions.

THE NEXT DAY

As the morning sun streamed through the curtains, I jolted awake, my heart racing as I glanced at the clock—7 AM.

Panic surged through me; I was already late for university. With a sense of urgency, I leaped out of bed, my mind racing with the tasks that lay ahead.

Hurriedly, I dashed into the bathroom, shedding my clothes in a flurry of motion. The warm water from the shower enveloped me, washing away the remnants of sleep and invigorating my senses.

Each droplet felt like a reminder of the precious minutes slipping away, urging me to quicken my pace.

Emerging from the shower, I wrapped a towel around my trembling form, my pulse echoing in my ears as I grabbed the toothbrush, scrubbing away any hint of morning breath. Today was no ordinary day; it was special, and every moment counted.

With trembling hands, I selected a regular outfit from my closet, the fabric feeling foreign against my skin as I hastily slipped it on.

Rushing to my vanity, I was met with a frenzied blur of activity—drying my hair, combing out the tangles, all while stealing anxious glances at the ticking clock.

As I gazed into the mirror, a surge of determination swept over me. Today was not the day for elaborate makeup; no, today called for simplicity, for natural beauty to shine through.

With a quick application of sun cream, I deemed myself presentable and turned my attention to gathering my essentials.

My hands trembled as I stuffed a spare dress, safety pins, and a handful of makeup and hair accessories into my bag. Each item felt like a lifeline, a security blanket against the chaos of the day ahead.

Finally, with my heart pounding in my chest, I dashed out the door, the weight of anticipation heavy on my shoulders.

Today held the promise of something extraordinary, and I was determined not to let a moment slip away.

As I frantically packed my bag, my phone rang, and Mona's name flashed on the screen. With a smile, I answered, greeted by her cheerful voice. "Hey, my girlfriend, did you wake up?" she asked.

Chuckling, I replied, "Yes, my girlfriend, I'm ready. Just finishing up packing."

She informed me, "Well, don't worry about that. The competition will be delayed, so it won't start for another hour. How about I come to pick you up? It's been days since I've seen Uncle and Auntie."

"Why not?" I agreed, knowing it would be nice to catch up with her family. Mona then made a cute request: "Lisa, make me my favorite Thai dish, please. I want to eat something homemade from you. You're perfect at cooking too, please."

I couldn't help but admire Mona's sweet nature. "Sure, my love, I'll be right over," I promised, already thinking about what ingredients I needed to whip up her favorite dish.

As I emerged from my room, I caught sight of my mother stepping out of hers. With a warm smile, I greeted her in our traditional style, saying, "Good morning, Mother."

Returning my smile, she replied, "Good morning, princess." Her affectionate nickname for me never failed to warm my heart. "Well, I've taken out the dress and already pressed it. It's in my closet. Wait here, I'll get it."

I nodded gratefully as she disappeared into her room. Moments later, she reappeared, a neatly packed bag in hand. With a tender expression, she handed it to me, her eyes reflecting a mixture of pride and love.

I bowed down to my mother, feeling a rush of gratitude for her care and support. She gently patted my head, her touch filled with love, as she reassured me, "Everything is ready, Lisa. Let me prepare breakfast. Just sit here."

Before she could leave, I hesitated, feeling the need to share the change in plans. "Mom, the time is extended at the university, and Mona is coming. She's requesting that I cook something."

My mother's smile widened, a knowing twinkle in her eyes as she replied, "Well, not today. She always eats what you cook, but today she'll try what I prepare. You have a competition to focus on, my dear, and remember, she's like my daughter too."

Her words resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the bond between us and Mona. Before I could respond, the doorbell rang, signaling Mona's arrival. With a knowing glance, my mother headed towards the door, ready to welcome her like family.

As I assured my mother, "Let me check," she nodded and headed into the kitchen. Meanwhile, I carefully placed the bag containing the dress on the couch table and went to answer the door.

As I opened it, Mona stood before me, her radiant smile lighting up the doorway. I couldn't help but return her smile as I welcomed her inside.

She immediately spotted my mother in the kitchen and greeted her with warmth, saying, "Hello, Aunty."

My mother emerged from the kitchen, her arms open wide as she enveloped Mona in a hug. "Thank you for coming, Mona. Well, today I'll prepare something special for both of my daughters," she declared with a twinkle in her eye.

Mona's eyes sparkled with happiness as she responded, "Yes, it will be amazing."

With a reassuring smile, my mother directed us to sit down. "Now, go and sit. I'll bring the breakfast after preparing," she said, disappearing back into the kitchen to work her magic.

As we settled into the cozy living room, anticipation bubbled within me. Mona and I exchanged excited glances, eagerly awaiting the culinary delights my mother had in store for us.

The aroma of breakfast cooking in the kitchen wafted through the air, heightening our anticipation.

With each passing moment, the bond between us grew stronger. Mona was not just a friend; she was family—a sister by heart.

My mother's gesture of preparing a special meal for us only reinforced that sentiment, filling me with a profound sense of warmth and belonging.

As we chatted animatedly, the sound of clinking dishes signaled my mother's approach. Moments later, she emerged from the kitchen, carrying a tray laden with steaming plates of breakfast delicacies.

The sight made my mouth water, and I couldn't wait to indulge in the feast before us.

With a proud smile, my mother set the tray down on the table, inviting us to dig in. As we savored each mouthful, the joy of shared moments and cherished company filled the room, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

As we finished our meal, Mona expressed her appreciation, saying, "It was amazing, Aunty. Where is Uncle?"

My mother's expression softened as she replied, "He had a headache last night, so he's resting."

Concern washed over me like a wave. "Why, mother? What happened?" I inquired, my worry evident in my voice.

With a gentle smile, she reassured me, "Nothing serious, just office stress, Lisa."

Relief flooded through me, and I responded, "Don't worry, it will be fine."

But as I looked at my mother, a surge of determination welled up within me. "Mom, I'll soon find a job to help you and Dad," I declared, determined to ease their burdens and contribute to our family's well-being.

My mother's eyes glistened with pride and gratitude at my offer. "Thank you, Lisa. Your willingness to help means the world to us; don't take stress," she said, her voice filled with warmth and appreciation.

Mona nodded in agreement, her support evident in the way she squeezed my hand reassuringly. "You're amazing, Lisa. Your determination to support your family is truly admirable," she remarked, her words bolstering my resolve.

Feeling a sense of purpose ignite within me, I made a silent vow to myself to pursue every opportunity diligently until I could fulfill my promise to my parents.

As my phone rang, I saw Mingyu's name flashing on the screen. With a smile, I answered, and his familiar voice greeted me, "Hello, beautiful."

Blushing at his endearment, I replied, "Hello, Mingyu. How are you?"

"I'm coming to pick you up; be ready," he announced confidently.

I hesitated, knowing Mona was already on her way. "Mona is here to pick me up," I informed him.

There was a brief pause before Mingyu spoke again, his voice laced with humor. "That dude, huh? Okay, I won't come, or else she'll end me with her fighting skills."

I couldn't help but chuckle at his playful remark. "Well, okay, let's meet at the university then," I suggested before ending the call.

Turning back to Mona and my mother, who had been watching the exchange with amusement, I made a face, prompting Mona to speak up, "I know it's Mingyu, isn't it?"

I nodded in confirmation, and Mona grinned mischievously. "Well, today he'll finally see me. I told him I'd challenge him to a boxing match tomorrow, and he practically flew away," she revealed, causing us all to burst into laughter.

My mother joined in the laughter but also offered a gentle reminder: "Don't bother Mingyu, Mona. Your dad is sleeping."

With a solemn nod, Mona and I rose from our seats, ready to embark on the day's journey. Turning to my mother, I made a heartfelt request: "Mom, please pray for me."

Her reassuring words washed over me like a gentle breeze, filling me with confidence. "I know you'll win. God is with you, and don't forget to pray to Him before you dance. Okay, now go and enjoy," she encouraged, her unwavering faith in me lending strength to my resolve.

I nodded, feeling a surge of determination coursing through my veins as I exchanged a glance with Mona. "Mona, wait for me. I'll come; I just need to grab my things," I assured her.

With a nod of understanding, she patiently waited for me as I hugged my mother one last time before stepping outside.

Grabbing the bag containing my dress from the couch table, I made my way to my room, where my already-prepared bag awaited me.

With practiced efficiency, I placed the dress inside, ensuring everything was in order. Tucking my cell phone into the pocket of my long dress, I took a moment to collect myself before exiting the room.

As I bid my mother farewell, a sense of determination settled within me, propelling me forward. Stepping out of our home, I made my way to Mona's car, the anticipation of the day ahead coursing through me as I settled into the passenger seat.

As we arrived at the university, Mona parked her car, and together we walked towards the main campus. As we entered, my heart sank when I spotted Mira approaching with a sly smile. I attempted to brush her off, but she halted me, with Mona intervening.

"Leave our way, Mira. If you don't want trouble, I suggest you move along," Mona warned her tone firm yet tinged with irritation.

Mira merely smirked in response, her eyes glinting with mischief. "Oh, I'm quaking in my boots, Mona. But why don't you step aside? I have something to discuss with your sweet, innocent girlfriend, Lisa."

Mona stepped closer, her protective instinct kicking in. "What do you want to talk about?"

Mira's gaze shifted to me, her expression smug. "Well, Lisa, you're aware of today's internship selection, right? It seems I've already informed my father not to consider you. Now, it appears you'll have to rely on Mingyu's father to secure your spot, won't you?"

My heart raced with a mixture of frustration and defiance as Mira's words cut through me. Mona's defense bolstered my resolve, but Mira's taunts stung deeply, igniting a fire within me.

Mira's chuckle grated on my nerves, and as Mona's hand tensed, ready to strike, I restrained her, swallowing back the tears threatening to spill.

"No," I managed to choke out, refusing to give Mira the satisfaction of seeing me break down.

Mira seemed surprised by my lack of reaction, expecting a scene instead. "Well, Lisa, you dared to snatch Mingyu from me, so now you'll have to bear the consequences. You won't achieve anything in your life," she spat venomously.

Biting my lip, I fought to hold back the flood of emotions raging within me. "I didn't do anything, Mira. But if you believe I deserve this, then so be it," I whispered, clinging to Mona's hand for support as we walked away from Mira's toxic presence.

Mona's grip tightened around mine, concern etched in her voice. "Lisa, what's gotten into you? She's treating you horribly, and you didn't deserve any of it." Despite Mona's words of support, I couldn't shake the feeling of helplessness and frustration gnawing at me.

With a pained smile and tears welling in my eyes, I replied, "What else can I do, Mona? I just want to focus on my studies and build a good career."

Mona's concern was evident as she urged me, "You need to talk to Mingyu when he arrives and ask him to speak to his stepfather about the internship for you."

I shook my head, feeling a surge of frustration and resentment. "I don't want to do that. People always assume I'm a gold digger because of my status. Please don't involve Mingyu, and don't tell him what happened between me and Mira."

Mona persisted, expressing her disapproval, but I held her hand firmly, pleading, "Promise me, Mona. I don't want to rely on anyone's help, especially Mingyu's. If my luck is this bad, then so be it, but I'll leave it in God's hands."

Mona embraced me, reassurance evident in her words, "You're strong, Lisa. Don't worry, I'll find a way to help you." I nodded. With Mona's promise and support, a glimmer of hope flickered within me.