Bubble Tea

Jaemin and Stella : Their story pt. 3

Song for the chapter: Rewrite the stars by Zac Efron and Zendaya

Jaemin's POV:

As I settled into my role as CEO of King's Group, my life became a whirlwind of responsibilities and challenges. Amidst the chaos, Stella remained my constant support, her unwavering love grounding me in the storm.

One evening, after a grueling day at the office, my parents summoned me to the formal dining room. Their expressions were stern, hinting at the serious conversation ahead. I knew what they were about to bring up - marriage, but not to Stella.

"Jaemin," my father began, his voice cold and authoritative, "it's time we discuss your future."

My mother, usually gentle and warm, spoke with an edge of concern, "You've been back for quite some time now, and we believe it's in our family's best interest for you to consider a suitable match."

I sighed inwardly, preparing for the clash that I knew was inevitable. "I understand your concerns, but I've made my decision. I have a girlfriend from university and I will marry her."

My father's face darkened with disappointment. "We know about Stella, Jaemin. We've been keeping an eye on your activities in America. She's not the right match for you, nor for our family's future."

"Spying on me?" I shot back, my voice cracking with betrayal. "You've been spying on me in LA?"

"It was not spying," my mother intervened softly, her eyes filled with regret. "We were concerned about your choices, Jaemin. We wanted to ensure you were making decisions that align with our family's values."

"I love Stella," I declared firmly, my heart aching with their disapproval. "I won't abandon her for some antiquated idea of who I should marry."

My father's eyes narrowed, his disappointment and anger palpable. "She's American. Her family's wealth and influence do not make her a suitable match for our family."

"She's more than just her family's wealth," I countered, frustration mounting. "Stella is intelligent, ambitious, and loves me for who I am. She's my partner in every sense."

My mother shook her head gently, her tone pleading, "Jaemin, do you honestly believe she understands our traditions, our values? Does she even speak our language?"

"Yes, Mom," I replied firmly, my patience wearing thin. "Stella respects our traditions, and she speaks Korean fluently. She's willing to learn and adapt."

My father scoffed dismissively, his disdain evident. "Do you truly think she can comprehend the responsibilities that come with being the heir to King's Group? Or the intricacies of our business dealings?"

"She's proven herself capable," I argued, my voice rising with defiance. "Her father's empire is no less influential than ours, and she's poised to take over a significant role. Stella is more than prepared."

My mother's eyes filled with sorrow, her voice trembling slightly. "But Jaemin, marrying outside our culture, our social circle... It could jeopardize everything we've built."

"We've built our family on principles of honor and tradition," my father interjected sternly. "Stella may be charming and accomplished, but she can never truly understand what it means to uphold our legacy."

I clenched my fists, struggling to maintain composure. "Stella is the woman I love. I won't give her up just to uphold some outdated notion of family honor."

My parents exchanged a look, disappointment palpable. "Jaemin, please reconsider," my father pleaded, his voice losing its edge but gaining desperation. "Think about the future of our company, our reputation."