Ruby(Red 2) JC [Revised]

26: The Chaos

"We still can't reach Wonwoo, right?" Chaeyeon nodded in denial, and Aerin sighed.

"Fine! I have planned the short circuit right after you two finish your vows. So when you see the first break, run with Mingyu, okay?" Aerin instructed.

"From the back door?"

"Yeah."

"But Mr. Choi would be there too. What if he doesn't escape?"

"I know he will; he is Choi Seungcheol. He will definitely manage to escape."

"Then why are you doing this?"

"The last way to get Seungcheol back is only by killing Jeonghan. So I'm doing that, and after he's gone, I'll get back with Seungcheol. I know I'll make him love me again."

"And what if you don't manage to escape too?"

"Then even while dying, I'll know that even though I didn't get Seungcheol, Jeonghan neither did."

"You sure Chan is the one who leaked everything to Jeonghan?"

"No one other than him knew about the papers, Chae. It's definitely him. I can't believe he did this to me, after all these years of our friendship. That's why I'm gonna trap him inside too."

"Ms. Park, can't you just move on... from all of this?"

Aerin gave a faint smile. "I wish I could, but I'm stuck in my revenge. I can't just sit still while Jeonghan gets everything he ever wanted. Anyways, you should go get ready. All the best!"

Chaeyeon gave her a tight-lipped smile, feeling a mix of concern and unease about Aerin's plans.

                                        _

As Jeonghan meticulously adjusted Mingyu's tie, his words hung heavy in the air, a silent plea for reconsideration. "Gyu, there's still time," he urged, his fingers deftly working the fabric.

Seokmin's voice chimed in, adding a hint of levity to the tense atmosphere. "Yeah, we can help you to run," he joked, though his eyes betrayed a genuine concern for his friend.

It was finally the big day, Mingyu's wedding. Yet, amidst the anticipation and celebration, Mingyu stood on the precipice of a decision he wasn't sure he was ready to make. His friends, the epitome of happiness and contentment, surrounded him, each bearing their own tales of love and fulfillment. But for Mingyu, there lingered a sense of unease, a gnawing doubt that threatened to overshadow the festivities.

Acknowledging his friends' support, Mingyu's gratitude was tinged with a hint of resignation. "It's fine, guys. Thanks for being there for me, but I guess I gotta do this now. So wish me luck!" he conceded, his voice betraying a deep sigh.

And then, there he stood, facing his soon-to-be wife, Chaeyeon, her eyes shimmering with anticipation. As she extended her hand, offering the symbol of their union, Mingyu's inner conflict reached its zenith. His gaze flitted between Chaeyeon and the ring, the weight of his decision bearing down on him like a leaden anchor.

With both families and friends watching intently, Mingyu's hesitation was palpable. The seconds stretched into eternity as he wrestled with his conscience. And then, with a deep breath, he spoke, his words cutting through the expectant silence.

"I'm sorry, Chaeyeon. I can't," Mingyu confessed, his voice heavy with regret as he relinquished the ring into her waiting palm.

Chaeyeon's stunned silence mirrored the confusion that rippled through the gathered guests. Mingyu's friends exchanged worried glances, uncertain of what to make of the unexpected turn of events.