The Heir (BBANGSAZ)

Chapter 14: The Pressure

THIRD PERSON'S POV

The morning after their intimate moment in Minji's room, Hanni and Minji woke up feeling closer than ever. The air between them was tinged with a newfound tenderness, yet underneath it all lingered the reality of their arranged marriage.

As they sat together for breakfast in the mansion's elegant dining room, Mr. Kim joined them unexpectedly. His demeanor was serious, his gaze assessing as he watched them both.

"Good morning," Mr. Kim greeted them, his tone slightly formal.

"Good morning, father," Minji replied, maintaining her composed façade.

Hanni glanced at Minji nervously, unsure of what to expect. Mr. Kim's presence always seemed to carry an air of authority, reminding them both of the expectations placed upon them.

"I trust you both had a pleasant evening," Mr. Kim continued, sipping his coffee before setting the cup down. "Now, there's something we need to discuss."

Hanni exchanged a quick glance with Minji, her heart pounding with apprehension. She knew what was coming, could sense it in the tense atmosphere that hung over them.

"As you know," Mr. Kim began, his gaze shifting between Minji and Hanni, "the continuation of the Kim family legacy is of utmost importance."

Hanni swallowed hard, her fingers tightening around her napkin. She had anticipated this conversation ever since the wedding, but now that it was happening, the reality of it was overwhelming.

"I understand, father," Minji replied calmly, though Hanni could detect a hint of defiance in her tone.

Mr. Kim nodded, his expression serious. "Good. Then you both understand the need for an heir."

Hanni's breath caught in her throat. She stole a glance at Minji, whose jaw was clenched slightly. It was clear that neither of them was prepared for this conversation so soon after the night they had shared.

"I expect you both to start planning for a family," Mr. Kim continued, his tone leaving no room for argument. "It's time to fulfill your duties."

Hanni felt Minji's hand under the table, offering a silent reassurance. She knew they couldn't avoid this conversation forever, but the pressure was suffocating.

"Father," Minji began, her voice steady yet tinged with tension, "We understand the importance of our roles."

Mr. Kim nodded approvingly. "Good," he repeated. "I'll leave you both to discuss the details."

With that, Mr. Kim rose from the table and left the room, leaving Hanni and Minji in an uneasy silence. Hanni stared down at her untouched breakfast, her mind racing with conflicting emotions.

"I'm sorry," Hanni finally whispered, her voice barely audible.

Minji reached across the table, gently squeezing Hanni's hand. "You have nothing to apologize for," she said softly. "We'll figure this out together."

Hanni looked up at Minji, her eyes filled with gratitude and uncertainty. "I just... I didn't expect it to be so soon," she admitted, her voice wavering.

Minji nodded understandingly. "Neither did I," she confessed, her gaze searching Hanni's face. "But we'll navigate this together, Hanni. We'll find a way."

Hanni nodded slowly, feeling a sense of relief wash over her at Minji's reassuring words. Despite the pressure and expectations, she knew they had each other to lean on.

"We'll take it one step at a time," Minji continued, her voice firm yet gentle. "Starting with figuring out what we want."

Hanni smiled weakly, grateful for Minji's unwavering support. "Thank you," she whispered.