Shadows of Regret

Chapter 3: Echoes of the Past

David and Chae Yeon sat at a cozy table in a charming, dimly lit restaurant, the soft glow of candles creating an intimate atmosphere. The atmosphere was relaxed, the soft hum of conversations around them adding to the intimate feel of the evening.

"Thank you for agreeing to have dinner with me," David said, smiling warmly at Chae Yeon. "I wanted to properly thank you for your help with the M&A deal."

Chae Yeon smiled, her cheeks flushing slightly. "I'm just glad I could help. Art might seem far removed from business, but it's amazing how perspectives can change outcomes."

As they sipped their drinks and browsed the menu, they felt the barriers between them begin to dissolve.

"I'm really glad we could do this," David said, smiling warmly at Chae Yeon. "I feel like we've connected so much through our work, but it's nice to just relax and get to know each other better."

Chae Yeon returned his smile, feeling a warmth spread through her. "I agree. It's been a while since I've had the chance to just enjoy a quiet evening out."

They talked easily, sharing stories about their backgrounds, dreams, and the challenges they had faced. Chae Yeon learned about David's journey from Korea to New York, his passion for mergers and acquisitions, and the pressures of leading Yoon Capital. David listened intently as Chae Yeon recounted her path in the art world, the inspiration behind her works, and her vision for her gallery.

David found himself opening up in a way he hadn't in a long time, and Chae Yeon felt a growing connection to him, her initial admiration deepening into something more.

Halfway through their dinner, just as they were laughing over a shared anecdote, David heard a voice call out his Korean name.

"Yoon Eun Sung? Is that really you?"

David froze for a moment before turning to see an old friend from Korea, Park Joon-Ho, approaching their table. "Joon-Ho, what a surprise," David said, forcing a smile. "I almost didn't recognize you."

Joon-Ho chuckled, clapping David on the shoulder. "I almost didn't recognize you either, Eun Sung. Are you on a date?"

David felt a flush of embarrassment and irritation.
"We're just having dinner," he replied glancing at Chae Yeon, who looked slightly bewildered. He is really hoping Joon-Ho would leave soon.

But Joon-Ho didn't take the hint. "Wow, it's been years. Did you hear about Hae In? She's getting married soon. Can you believe it?"

The words hit David like a punch to the gut. He managed to maintain his composure, but inside, a storm of emotions was brewing. He glanced at Chae Yeon, who was watching the interaction with a curious but concerned expression. "Oh, I didn't know," he managed to say, his voice tight.

Realizing the awkwardness of the situation, Joon-Ho finally seemed to notice Chae Yeon. "Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to intrude. Hello, I'm Park Joon-Ho, an old friend of Eun Sung's," he said, extending his hand.

Chae Yeon shook his hand politely. "Nice to meet you."

"Anyway, I'll let you two get back to your evening. Eun Sung, we should catch up sometime," Joon-Ho said, finally taking his leave.

With that, Joon-Ho walked away, leaving a heavy silence in his wake. David felt the sting of Ji Hoon's words, the news about Hae In reopening old wounds he thought had healed. He looked at Chae Yeon, her face a mixture of empathy and concern.

David, still reeling from the news, forced a smile. "I'm sorry about that. I didn't expect to run into anyone I knew."

"It's okay," Chae Yeon said, though she could see the hurt in his eyes. "Are you alright?"