My Forbidden Fruit - Choi Beomgyu

Chapter 8

Kang Hana's POV

I sensed Beomgyu shifting uncomfortably in his seat next to me, and his father hadn't even arrived yet. 

"Calm down, Choi, your dad isn't going to eat you." 

"Easy for you to say. You're not the one he's going to go bonkers over." 

I rolled my eyes and focused on my phone. It had been precisely 22 minutes since the King had called us for the meeting, but he had yet to arrive. As I texted Soobin some updates about the week, an unknown number popped up with an incoming call. I couldn't answer it, though, as the King walked into the room. 

I quickly stood and respectfully dipped my head, stowing my phone in the front pocket of my jeans.

"Ms. Kang Hana, it's a pleasure to see you again after such a long time," Mr. Choi greeted, his deep voice resonating through the library. 

I respectfully bowed again and replied, "Yes, it has been a while, Mr. Choi. I hope you've been doing well." 

He chuckled, "Of course, Ms. Hana." 

"Now, Beomgyu, I have something to discuss with you," Mr. Choi began, turning his attention to his son. 

"Today, we'll be traveling to Busan for a party hosted by the Park family. As you know, King Park Jimin is celebrating New Year at his castle and has invited us. Princess Park Chaeyeong will also be present, and I want you to become acquainted with her. Ms. Hana, I've called you here to let you know that all girls, including bodyguards, must wear a dress on that day. I'd like you to keep a close eye on Beomgyu, it's where we'll encounter some of our rivals."

I nodded in comprehension, acknowledging the concerns about the potential stalker issue. 

"And Beomgyu, please attempt to build a good rapport with Princess Chaeyeong. She is one of your suitors, so I'd rather you avoid causing any offence," Beomgyu's father explained. 

"Suitor? Father, I'm only 24, and I still have a few years before becoming King," Beomgyu's voice wavered during his response. 

"I understand, my Son, but it's beneficial for the public image if your relationship is established a few years in advance. This way, it won't appear as a forced marriage when the time comes." 

Beomgyu began to protest, but his words were cut short. 

"Enough, Choi Beomgyu. You both are dismissed," his father declared sternly.

I nodded, acknowledging the King's instructions. We both left the room, with Beomgyu following closely behind me. Suddenly, I came to a stop, realising that I needed to wear a dress for the upcoming event, even though I didn't own one. The only dress I had used for these types of missions had been ruined when it got caught in a fight with an idiot who had cut the dress with his knife.

"Choi, do you know of any dress shops nearby?" I asked, a bit annoyed by the sudden dress shopping task that had been thrust upon me without warning. 

"Yeah, there are plenty," he replied. 

"Alright." 

"Wait, if you're going dress shopping, can I join you?" 

"Aren't you supposed to get ready too?" I retorted. 

"That's not until tonight. Besides, if I let you go off on your own, you might end up choosing a dress for a funeral rather than a New Year celebration." 

I scoffed, "I may wear the same black clothes every day, but I have a good fashion sense, Prince Charming," I replied, emphasising the last two words.

"I'm still joining you."