Two Years Later:
In the two years since Haneul's abrupt departure, Sunghoon's life had become a relentless pursuit to find her. He visited Mr. Kim's home daily, bearing flowers and heartfelt letters, desperately hoping that his messages would somehow reach her. Mr. Kim, torn between pity for Sunghoon and loyalty to his daughter, remained determined in keeping her whereabouts a secret. Although Sunghoon had some inkling that Haneul was abroad for training at one of their company branches, the specific location was unknown to him.
Despite pleas to Sunoo and others, the mystery surrounding Haneul's location remained unsolved. Sunghoon's friendship with Jake had deepened during this time, as Jake became a confidant who shared the burden of Sunghoon's grief. Jake, knowing the circumstances, attempted to support his friend, understanding the profound impact Haneul's absence had on him.
Meanwhile, So-he, initially thinking Haneul's departure would result in a return to the status quo, was angered to witness Sunghoon's increasing obsession with Haneul. Contrary to her expectations, he had not moved on. His determination to find her only intensified, causing a seething resentment within So-he.
Sunghoon's emotions fluctuated between heartbreak, desperation, anger, and resentment. Memories of their time together haunted him, leaving him yearning for the warmth of the life they had shared. At times, he felt anger towards Haneul for leaving without giving him a chance to explain, but deep down, he acknowledged that the fault lay with him.
Throughout these two years, Sunghoon had not only clung to the hope of Haneul's return but had also managed to ascend to the position of CEO, tirelessly dedicating himself to the company. When news of their divorce surfaced, speculation and rumors spread like wildfire. Many were quick to cast judgment on the "cold, deviant, and intolerable" CEO, unaware of the complex emotions that lay beneath the surface.
On the other hand, Haneul's life had been a whirlwind of new experiences and self-discovery. The first year was spent in the vibrant city of New York, where she fell in love with the bustling streets and the diverse culture. The energy of the city fueled her determination, and she threw herself into her training, soaking up knowledge and skills like a sponge.
Following her time in New York, Haneul relocated to Europe to continue her training. The change in scenery brought new friends into her life, people who had no connection to the past she had left behind. They became a supportive network, helping her through the occasional moments of doubt that crept into her mind.
And although Haneul had told her father and cousin that she wanted to know nothing about the man who had shattered her heart, her father and Sunoo kept her informed about Sunghoon's relentless pursuit. Learning about his daily visits and the desperation in his actions stirred a mix of emotions within her. There were times when she questioned her decision, wondering if she should have let him explain. But then, the painful memories of the night everything shattered would resurface, causing her to break down as she relived that night. it reminded her of what he had done.
Being away allowed Haneul to develop a strong sense of emotional control. Initially burying herself in schoolwork to fastened her university graduation, she transitioned seamlessly into her training, determined to become an exceptional CEO for KIM Enterprise. To those who knew her closely, it was evident that Sunghoon's actions had left an indelible mark. The light that once radiated within her seemed to dim, a subtle yet profound change in her demeanor.
While many continued to describe her as the sweet and kind-hearted Haneul, those who saw beyond the surface recognized the shadows of the past that lingered in her eyes. The pain of that fateful night had transformed her, turning her into a woman with a steely determination to succeed and a guarded heart that had learned to suppress its emotions.
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Chained by Expectations | Park Sunghoon
RomanceKim Haneul has always been the shining star of her family, the trophy child who excelled in every aspect of life. Her father meticulously handpicked her path, from the prestigious university she now attends to the career he envisioned for her. Haneu...