"Wait... maid of honor? Are you serious?" I blinked, stunned.

"Yess..." Lisa replied, stretching the word with a huge grin.

"Wow, Lisa, that's fantastic! But... I'm a little confused. Wouldn't your friends get offended? I mean, you've only known me a few days—"

"The truth is, Y/N, I don't really have that close of friends," she said, her voice softening. "Actually... you've been a better friend to me in these few days than the people back home have been in years. So, after a lot of thought... I realized there's no one I'd rather have as my maid of honor than you."

My heart warmed, and I couldn't help but smile. "Then how could I refuse?"

Before I knew it, she threw her arms around me in a tight hug. "I'm so happy you said yes!" she squealed. "Anyway, about the dress—"

"Whoa, slow down!" I laughed, pulling back a little. "Where's the fire?"

"Yeah, it's not like you're getting married today, right?" I joked, taking a sip of water.

"Actually... I am."

Cue cartoon spit-take: water sprayed everywhere. "What?!"

She held back a laugh at my reaction. "Yep! Ethan and I talked to the producers, and they were thrilled. Apparently, they've never had a Hallyuwood Matchmaker wedding before, so they're covering the costs as a 'wedding gift.'"

Of course, they're paying for it! This wedding's going to launch the ratings through the roof!

"But, Lisa... getting married on Hallyuwood Matchmaker? Isn't that a bit... public? And fast? I mean, you two got engaged yesterday. And what about your family? Are they going to drop everything and come right away?"

Lisa shrugged. "Actually, my family gave me the idea. They said I'd better secure Ethan while he still wants me."

I stared at her, wondering if I'd heard that right. "Lisa... I don't think your family is very... healthy for you."

She gave a nonchalant shrug. "Well, you know what they say. Every family is toxic in one way or another."

"Yeah, but most families don't push you to lock down a husband like he's a flight risk," I muttered, shaking my head.

"Anyway, do you think I should go with lilies and lavender for the floral theme, or is that too corny? And for the tables—"

"Lisa!" I interrupted. "Maybe we should get some caffeine in our systems first?"

Her eyes lit up like I'd just invented fire. "Great idea! This is why I chose you as my maid of honor. You're brilliant! How do you even come up with these ideas?"

"Uh... I just suggested coffee or black tea..." I said, feeling a little awkward.

"Coffee it is! Follow me!" she announced like we were embarking on a grand adventure.

I breathed a sigh of relief. At least she listened. And so, I followed her to the kitchen, where she immediately began rifling through cabinets and drawers like a caffeine-crazed raccoon.

"Alright," she said, pulling out a mismatched assortment of coffee grounds, tea bags, and what looked suspiciously like hot chocolate mix. "Which one speaks to you?"

"Uh... maybe just the coffee?" I suggested, trying to hide my horror at the mountain of options.

"Excellent choice!" She flashed me a grin as she dumped a very generous amount of coffee into the machine, pressing buttons with the confidence of someone who definitely knows what she's doing... or thinks she does.

A few seconds later, the machine sputtered, wheezed, and started producing a murky sludge.

"Oh! It looks... rich?" I said, squinting at the suspiciously thick liquid.

"See? Amazing ideas, even when it comes to coffee-making commentary! You're going to make the perfect maid of honor," Lisa said, handing me a mug.

I took a tentative sip and tried not to gag. This wedding was shaping up to be a wild ride.

Seven excruciatingly long hours later...

"Are you sure you needed that fifth cup of coffee?" I asked, raising an eyebrow as I watched Lisa's slightly jittery hand.

"Definitely! This coffee is amazing," she beamed. "Honestly, I should've had my first cup ages ago!"

I nearly choked. "Wait. Are you saying you've never had coffee before today?"

"Nope! Don't know why, but I feel fantastic! Anyway, did you get a chance to go through my wedding preparations list?"

"What—"

"The stack of paper I left on the counter," she explained, eyes wide. "You haven't seen it? Don't tell me someone threw it away!" She sighed, sounding betrayed by the universe.

"Lisa, calm down!" I said, trying to ease her mounting panic. "I know you want this wedding to be perfect, but don't stress out like it's some kind of exam. The producers know what they're doing. You just need to share your vision, sit back, and enjoy the show."

She took a deep breath and managed a small smile. "You're right... I don't know why I'm so afraid this wedding's going to be a total disaster. Or that Ethan's going to change his mind last-minute and leave me at the altar."

"Why would he do that?"

"Why would he want to marry me in the first place? Maybe Iseul's right... Maybe he's only in it for the publicity and plans to dump me as soon as he gets what he wants." Her face clouded over.

My jaw dropped. "Wait—when did Iseul say that?" I crossed my arms, feeling a flicker of anger.

"Don't you remember? She said it to you. I just... happened to overhear that part of your conversation."

"Oh, Lisa," I sighed, "she's just jealous. Honestly, she wouldn't recognize a good relationship if it hit her over the head."

"You think so?"

"I know so," I said with a grin.

Just then, we were interrupted. "Excuse me, Ms. Lee and Ms. Manoban," a voice called. We turned to see Fred standing at the door, bowing respectfully.

"The wedding party has arrived, and we're ready to proceed with the ceremony," he informed us.

"So soon?!" we both gasped.

"Is my family already here?" Lisa asked, nerves creeping back into her voice.

"Indeed, they are. And Mr. Pierre has arrived as well," Fred added.

"Pierre?" I frowned, glancing at Lisa.

"Ethan's younger brother," she explained. "They apparently look exactly alike. He's here as the best man. Ethan's parents are backpacking through Europe, so... they couldn't make it."

"I didn't even know Ethan had a brother!" I frowned

"Hey, how do you think I feel? I only found out this morning," she groaned.

Fred cleared his throat. "Shall we go? Everyone's quite eager to see you."

"Let's do this, Lisa!" I cheered, hoping to boost her spirits.

She grinned nervously, then turned to me. "Oh, and Y/N, you'd better get into your bridesmaid dress!"

"On it!" I called over my shoulder as I sprinted out of the room. This was going to be a whirlwind of a wedding, but I was ready to take it on—coffee jitters, surprise family members, and all.

There was absolutely no time to lose. The ceremony was supposed to begin in just thirty minutes, and I was still standing here in my regular clothes! I rushed over to the dress Lisa had picked for me—a gorgeous light pink silk bodycon that looked straight out of a dream. The fabric shimmered softly, hugging every curve, with tiny pearls delicately stitched along the neckline and sleeves, giving it an elegant sparkle.

I slipped out of my clothes and carefully slid the dress on, making sure not to mess up the delicate fabric or the pearls. It fit like a glove, clinging just right without feeling too tight. I gave a little spin, admiring the way it flowed with my movements. The dress was sophisticated yet simple, a perfect match for Lisa's romantic, elegant wedding vibe.

Next, I quickly touched up my makeup, adding a soft pink blush to match the dress and a hint of shimmer on my eyelids. I carefully adjusted my hair, letting it fall in soft waves around my shoulders, just as Lisa had suggested. Finally, I added a pair of pearl earrings to complete the look, catching my reflection in the mirror. Not bad for a five-minute glow-up!

But before I could go out, there was one more thing to do—the hair! Lisa had been gushing about a bold look for the wedding, and after much persuasion, I'd finally agreed to dye my hair a rich burgundy magenta. I'd never gone this bold before, but the color was stunning—a deep, warm shade with hints of magenta that gave it a playful edge.

I carefully worked the color into my hair, watching as my usual shade transformed. After rinsing and drying, the final look was even better than I'd imagined. The color added a striking contrast against the light pink of my bridesmaid dress, making the pearls pop even more.

Now, with the burgundy magenta hair, pearl-studded dress, and a soft, fresh makeup look, I was finally ready. I took a moment to take it all in, feeling both excited and a little daring. Then, clutch in hand, I hurried out to join the wedding party. This was going to be unforgettable.

As I stepped outside, the wedding arrangements took my breath away. They'd really gone all out—delicate flower arches, twinkling fairy lights, and the soft blush-pink tones Lisa had envisioned for her big day. It was beautiful, a scene straight out of a fairytale.

"How insolent," a familiar voice muttered behind me. I turned to find Jungkook, sulking in exaggerated annoyance.

"I should have you kicked out," he said, crossing his arms with a mock frown.

"What?! What did I do?" I asked, genuinely confused.

"You must be joking. You're breaking the wedding dress code," he said, smirking.

"Dress code?" I rolled my eyes, catching on. "Come on, Jungkook, Lisa chose this dress! Look, Kiara and Jennie are wearing the same style," I pointed out.

He leaned in a little, grinning. "Maybe, but they're not breaking hearts like you are," he teased before walking away.

I couldn't help but laugh at his cheesy line, though my amusement faded as my gaze drifted to the corner, where Jimin was standing, watching the festivities quietly. Our eyes met, and he gave me a gentle smile. As much as I enjoyed my lighthearted moments with Jungkook, my chest tightened with a pang of guilt. Jimin deserved better than the confusion I'd put him through.

Just then, he walked over, his expression soft yet somehow distant. "Congratulations," he said with a smile.

"For what?" I asked, looking down, feeling the weight of his words.

"You made it to the finale," he replied, nodding slightly. "I'm happy you chose the man who made you smile. I'm... I'll miss you, Y/N."

My heart skipped a beat as confusion settled over me. "What... what do you mean?"

"After yesterday's events, I was left without a partner," he said with a shrug, though there was sadness in his eyes. "So, I'm guessing today's my last day here on Hallyuwood Matchmaker."

"No! That can't be right—"

"Hey, it's okay," he reassured me, his voice calm. "There was no one else who caught my eye like you did, anyway. It would be pointless to stay and try to win with someone I don't have a connection with."

I felt my throat tighten. "I'm... I'm so sorry," I whispered, guilt washing over me as I looked at him.

He shook his head, giving me a small, understanding smile. "You did what felt right for you. I just wanted to see you happy."

As he walked away, I realized that, even amidst all the laughter and romance of the show, some choices came with their own kind of heartbreak.

My heart ached. No one deserved to win this show more than Jimin. His love had been the most genuine—a quiet, steady devotion that had come through in every gesture, whether it was for me, his friends, his fans, or even that secret childhood love he'd once hinted at. Jimin had been real in a way that transcended the game, and watching him walk away felt like a chapter closing too soon.

As I turned to leave, I spotted Jungkook talking with Jin near the refreshments table. 

I took a deep breath and approached them. "Hi! Mr. Kim, I need to have a few words with you..."

An hour later...

"Y/N! Have you seen Ethan?" Lisa's voice was laced with anxiety as she rushed over to me, eyes wide.

"Um... no, I haven't," I said, a little startled by her expression.

She looked about ready to faint. "We're supposed to get married in ten minutes, and nobody's seen him all day! Oh god, what am I going to do? If he leaves me at the altar, my family is going to disinherit me!" She was on the verge of a full-blown meltdown.

"Lisa, get a hold of yourself! He's not going to do that, I promise," I assured her, hoping my confidence was convincing enough to calm her down.

"Could you please go look for him? I know it's a huge favor, but I can't ask anyone else. You're the only one I trust," she pleaded, her eyes practically begging.

The look on her face broke my heart. "Go be with your family," I said, giving her shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "I'll make sure Ethan's at that altar on time."

"You're the best maid of honor ever!" she said, pulling me into a quick hug before hurrying off.

And so, I set off, marching through the maze-like mansion in search of the missing groom. After weaving through hallways, dodging caterers, and nearly getting lost twice, I finally spotted him—on the opposite side of the mansion, calmly sitting on a bench in the garden like he hadn't just put everyone on high alert.

"There you are!" I panted, hands on my knees as I caught my breath. "Do you have any idea how big this place is? If you really needed some time alone, couldn't you have picked a spot closer by? I feel like my legs are about to give out!"

Ethan looked up, surprised, and gave a small laugh. "What are you doing here?"

"The question is, what are you doing here?!" I threw my hands up, barely catching my breath. "Everyone's out there searching for you, you doofus! Kind of hard to have a wedding without the groom, don't you think?"

Ethan looked sheepish, rubbing his forehead. "Sorry, Y/N, I didn't mean to give anyone a scare. Just needed a moment to think."

"Well, think faster," I said, exasperated but secretly relieved. "Your bride's ready to walk down the aisle, and she's imagining all kinds of wild scenarios."

He sighed, facepalming. "It's just... I got a bit nervous."

I narrowed my eyes, arms crossing over my chest. "Please don't tell me you've got cold feet! You can't do this to Lisa. You'll break her heart!"

"I know, I know!" He groaned, hands on his head. "Do you think I want to feel like this? I'm freaking out, okay? I was single literally two days ago, and now I'm getting married! In front of—how many people are watching this? For Christ's sake, there's probably some eighty-year-old grandma in Kolkata crying over this right now!"

I gave him a look. "So what? I had a full-blown fallout with my ex-best friend on live television. Everyone saw my dirty laundry aired for the world to see. And you're freaking out because you're marrying the woman you love?"

"But that's just it!" he shot back. "Lisa is amazing, but... how do I know if I really love her? I've known her for, like, a month! That's not enough time for something like this!"

I raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Maybe you should have thought about that before you proposed? Or, I don't know, before you signed up for this circus?"

He winced, facepalming again. "I didn't think. I just... got carried away."

"You don't say, Mr. Obvious." I tilted my head, exasperated but amused. "Look, if you back out now, not only will you be seen as a total villain in front of all of our viewers, but you'll also break the heart of a woman I care about. And I'm not letting that happen."

He stared at me, confused. "But... you've known her for the same amount of time as I have."

"Fantastic. You finally see my point." I smirked. "Time is just a concept, Ethan. Some people have been together for decades and still split up. You can't plan every detail. Yeah, maybe you'll go separate ways after a few months... or maybe you'll stay married for the rest of your lives. But you'll never know if you run away now."

He looked at me, taking it all in. "You know, that... actually makes a lot of sense. You're really wise for a twenty-something-year-old, Y/N."

I flipped my hair, channeling every ounce of confidence. "People say that a lot."

He chuckled, looking more grounded, and I nudged him. "Now come on, we have a wedding to get to. And if you don't show up in the next five minutes, your brother Pierre might step in for you."

"What!?" His eyes went wide.

I shrugged. "Well, you two look identical. Lisa might not even notice."

"Over my dead body!" he yelled, breaking into a run down the hallway.

"Wait for me, Ethan!" I called after him, grinning. Gosh, this guy...

"Ethan, you're here!" Lisa's voice was filled with relief as she hugged him tightly, her nerves melting away.

He smiled, squeezing her back. "Did you really think I'd leave you at the altar? C'mon, love. I just got lost trying to find the bathroom in this place."

Lisa laughed, shaking her head. "Can't blame you for that! It happened to me twice just this morning."

"Hey, lovebirds!" I called out with a grin. "Time to make it official!"

"Right!" Lisa grinned, then blew me a dramatic flying kiss, which I, of course, caught with equal flair.

Ethan shot me a grateful smile. "Y/N, seriously, thank you... for everything."

"You both owe me a big one." I winked and made my way toward the stage, finally letting them have their moment.

As the couple took their places, the priest looked at Ethan. "Do you, Ethan, take Lisa to be your wife? Do you promise to love her, comfort her, and keep her, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, to be faithful to her as long as you both shall live?"

Ethan's eyes softened as he looked at Lisa. "I do," he said, his voice steady with emotion.

The priest turned to Lisa. "And do you, Lisa, take Ethan to be your husband? Do you promise to love him, comfort him, and keep him, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, to be faithful to him as long as you both shall live?"

Lisa's smile was warm and sure as she responded, "I... do."

The room erupted in applause, and we all cheered with excitement as the priest announced, "By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife."

He looked at Ethan with a smile. "The groom may kiss the bride."

We all stepped back from the stage, cheering them on for the long-awaited kiss. As they leaned in, the applause grew louder, and I couldn't help but feel my heart swell with happiness. This might've started as a show, but seeing them now, it felt like something real had blossomed on that stage.

"And they are married," I muttered, feeling a strange mix of excitement and relief. Just then, I noticed Jimin standing beside me, grinning.

"So, you ready to be the next one up there?" he teased, nudging my shoulder.

I scoffed, trying to hide my sudden blush. "Oh, please! I'd be the worst bride. I'd trip on my own veil before I even got halfway down the aisle."

Jimin chuckled. "Don't worry. I'd catch you before you fell. Imagine the headlines: Runaway Bride Detained by Best Man."

"Oh, that would definitely boost ratings," I snorted. "Or maybe Bride Taken Out by Bouquet Toss Gone Wrong—that would sound about right for me."

Jimin raised an eyebrow, feigning a serious look. "You think you'd go down from a bouquet toss? Amateur move. I'd have you out there ducking and weaving like a pro."

"Oh, so now you're a bouquet-dodging expert?"

He shrugged, looking very proud. "Well, I've had to dodge enough of my mom's hints, so yeah, I'm basically a ninja at this point."

I laughed, glancing back at Lisa and Ethan as they kissed. "Okay, Mr. Bouquet Ninja. You're officially on call for my next disaster."

"Hey, I'm a pro. And you..." he said with a smirk, "better start practicing that aisle walk. Just in case."

I rolled my eyes, but I couldn't help but laugh.

"Excuse me" It was the new host, Miyu "I need your help Y/n" she requested as I excused myself from Jimin and went with her...

An hour later

We all gathered indoors for a feast that was nothing short of spectacular. The tables were piled high with platters of vibrant dishes, each one more mouth-watering than the last. Aromas of spices, roasted vegetables, and freshly baked bread filled the air, tempting us all as we eagerly took our seats. Laughter and clinking glasses echoed around the room as we shared stories and toasts, savoring every bite. The meal felt like a celebration not just of the wedding, but of friendships, love, and the unforgettable journey we'd all been on together.

After the delicious feast, the air buzzed with excitement as the first notes of a lively tune filled the room. It was time for dancing.

"Come on, Y/N," Jungkook nudged with a playful grin. "I'd be the worst match ever if I didn't at least subject you to the horror of my two left feet. Care to dance?" He asked, dramatically dropping to one knee and extending his hand.

"You're making it look like a proposal!" Taehyung chuckled, rolling his eyes.

"Oh, please!" Jennie groaned with a laugh. "I'm not ready for another wedding. Give me a heads-up so I can dress for the occasion next time!"

I couldn't help but laugh as I took Jungkook's hand. "Lead the way, sir," I said, giving him a teasing curtsy.

As the soft melody of a romantic ballad filled the room, Jungkook took my hand and led me to the dance floor, his face lit up with a playful grin. "Prepare yourself," he whispered dramatically, "for a masterclass in stepping on toes."

I laughed, squeezing his hand. "I've got sturdy shoes on—I think I can handle it."

He slipped his arm around my waist, pulling me close as we swayed to the music. Despite his teasing, he moved with surprising grace, only stumbling once or twice in a way that made us both laugh. Each time he tripped, he'd flash me that boyish grin, making my heart do a little flip. Somehow, the small stumbles made the dance feel even more real, more... us.

As the song played on, his gaze softened, and he brushed a loose strand of hair behind my ear. "I have to admit, dancing isn't half as scary when it's with you," he murmured, his eyes searching mine. For a moment, the crowd around us seemed to disappear, leaving only us in this little world.

"Then maybe we should do this more often," I whispered back, feeling my cheeks flush.

He leaned in, his voice barely a breath away. "I'd like that."

Before I could respond, he closed the distance, his lips meeting mine in a gentle, warm kiss. It was soft and sweet, but it lingered just long enough to make my heart race. The world fell away entirely as we shared that moment, and everything felt perfect, right down to the music still playing in the background.

When we finally pulled apart, I could see the little spark in his eyes, and he gave me a mischievous smile. "See? Not bad for a guy with two left feet, huh?"

"Not bad at all," I whispered back, my smile matching his as we continued swaying to the music, feeling closer than ever.

Just then, I spotted Jimin near the bar, sipping his drink alone. Perfect. This was the ideal moment to put my plan into action. Without hesitation, I dashed up onto the stage, borrowing a microphone from one of the crew members nearby.

"Attention, everyone!" I called out, my voice echoing across the room. The crowd quieted, curious eyes turning my way. "It's time for the bouquet-catching ceremony! But there's a little twist this time. Lisa won't be the one throwing it—instead, Ethan will take the honors, and the guys will be catching! Exciting, right?"

The room erupted in cheers, and laughter filled the air as the boys lined up, ready for the challenge. I grabbed a fresh bouquet of flowers and handed it over to Ethan, lowering my voice as I pointed toward Jimin, still unaware in the corner.

"Make sure you aim it right at him," I instructed with a grin. Ethan shot me a wink, signaling that he was all in.

"Alright, ready, everyone?" Ethan announced with a mischievous grin, raising the bouquet high before launching it across the room. With flawless accuracy, it sailed through the air and landed squarely on Jimin's lap.

"What the—?" Jimin looked down at the bouquet in surprise, then glanced up, baffled by the roomful of people cheering and laughing in his direction.

"Whoa, hey! I don't even have anyone to give this to—" he started to protest. But just as he spoke, the grand doors to the hall swung open, bathing the room in a brilliant white light. A shadowed figure stood at the threshold, creating a dramatic silhouette that held everyone's gaze.

"You sure darling?"