(✔️) The Villainess' Secret | Bang Chan

17 | Bad Timing

Chan's POV

—

Being a leader wasn't a position, but a mentality. And that was what my dad had taught me since I was kid. Learned to be responsible and understand what I did, understand what it meant to be a leader, or as a boss, or as a public figure with many people who depended on me. As I understood all that, I realized that being someone in the spotlight wasn't a pleasant thing.

People loved to see those positions as euphoria, only focusing on the advantages without caring how serious the disadvantages were. If we already knew what the disadvantages were, the advantages would only act as a balance so that we didn't end up depressed. If they knew the risks, they would choose to be an ordinary worker rather than a leader. Believe me, sometimes being normal was more peaceful.

And now, I was in a restaurant, in front of my parents and my two in-laws. They asked for an 'update' regarding our marriage which had been going on for two weeks, and as it should be, I as the head of the family had to carry out my role well when I also had a role at Uni. Also after this, they wanted me and Liv to start getting into the big business they have planned, which meant I'd have another new life but with the same partner. I couldn't imagine how big this responsibility was even though it was good for our future. It was crazy to think how many roles I carry in my back, people's expectations and stuff. But Liv, she was currently the reason I was still sane. She was the cure of my burdens. It's just that, I couldn't believe that they would ask—

"Have you two had s*x?"

—about 'that' clearly and with such a relaxed expression. Well, I understood they were pros at it, but this was a little awkward to discuss. Luckily Liv wasn't here or I would have run right now. "Uh— we just married. And we need time to think about having kids."

"Chan, this is about the successor. Just a due obligation." My dad sighed. I knew they would be eagerly waiting for a grandchild in our big family. Of course, it would be easy for them to hand over the big business they built from the start to their children and grandchildren rather than anyone unrelated.

"They only did it once on the first night, they need more." Mrs. Lee, EML's wife, laughed. "It's better if they immediately live in the same house. It's not just about the successors but working together more effectively."

Regarding the same house, I had written it in my agreement with Liv. I honestly really wanted her to stay with me, but just hadn't the courage to talk to her about this and probably she hated that idea. So I was grateful, I finally had a concrete reason to propose in a most appropriate way because the parents wanted it. For the damn business's sake. Although, yeah, I was also nervous about being at the same house with her after our wedding– and after that night. I was scared I couldn't control myself. "Okay, I'll discuss this with Liv right away. Sorry, we're both busy with SA stuff. And for business, what steps should we take first?"

"Survey." EML said, then gave me a guide booklet. "Go to several places for inspiration. The costs and destination have been arranged by us."

"When is this, Sir?" I immediately confirmed it because the booklet said it was scheduled for ten days, while there were still things we had to do. "We still have a special trip for new students soon."

"Chill, it's next month."

I frowned when EML smiled, then got up from his seat along with his wife. They bowed goodbye to me and my parents. I didn't know why this meeting was so short but I understand how busy EML was. And a few seconds after they disappeared from my sight, my mom snorted curtly.

"Can you stop hating that girl?" My dad, who also noticed it, let out a tired sigh. I saw a luxury brand paper bag on the chair next to my mom—which I assumed was a gift from EML. I was a little ashamed, shouldn't my mom be a little grateful? Since the beginning, Liv has always done this to her, giving expensive things to steal her heart even though I hate Liv that time. But now— ah, it's hard to say. Liv changed. She was no longer the annoying girl who existed like a germ. She's my good friend.