Bubble Tea

Jaemin and Stella : Their story pt. 6

Song for the chapter: Really Really by Winner

Jaemin's POV:

The flight to LA was a blend of anticipation and anxiety. My parents, fluent in English and accustomed to private jets, maintained their composure even as we navigated through the throng of reporters at the airport. Shielded by our bodyguards, we made our way to our plane, the enormity of the upcoming meeting weighing heavily on us.

As we settled into our seats, my mother turned to me with a critical eye. "Your girlfriend better not disappoint us, Jaemin."

"Yes, Mom," I replied, my voice steady but my heart racing. "But please, be polite with her family."

She sighed. "Don't tell me how to behave. I know what I'm doing."

When we landed, Stella's place came into view, and it was nothing short of a mansion. Her father, one of the wealthiest men in LA, had ensured that his home mirrored the opulence of our own. As we approached the grand entrance, the tension in the air was palpable.

Stella greeted us at the door, her beauty momentarily taking my breath away. Despite the formal setting, our eyes met with a familiarity that made me smile. Months apart had felt like years.

Her parents welcomed us with practiced politeness. Mr. Rodriguez, her father, shook hands with my father. "Welcome, Mr. and Mrs. Na."

"Thank you for having us," my father replied, his tone equally formal.

Stella's mother, Mrs. Rodriguez addressed my mother. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you."

"The pleasure is ours," my mother responded, her smile reserved.

"안녕하세요, 어머니, 아버지," Stella greeted my parents in perfect Korean, bowing respectfully.

(T/n:
Hello, Mother, Father.)

My parents exchanged a surprised look, clearly impressed. "Your Korean is excellent," my father remarked.

"감사합니다," Stella replied, smiling.

(T/n:
Thank you.)

We moved into the living room, where an elaborate spread of refreshments awaited. The atmosphere remained stiff, each family sizing the other up.

"Jaemin has told us so much about you," my mother began, addressing Stella. "He speaks very highly of you."

Stella blushed slightly. "Thank you, Mrs. Na, Jaemin has always been very kind and supportive."

My father chimed in, "He also mentioned your dedication to your family's business. It's admirable how you're expanding into Asian markets."

Stella nodded. "Yes, it's been a lot of hard work, but we see great potential in the Asian markets."

Stella's mother, added, "Stella has always been very responsible and intelligent. We're very proud of her."

There was a warmth in the room now, a mutual respect growing between the families. I could see my parents gradually letting their guard down.

"Tell us, Stella," my mother said, leaning forward slightly. "How do you find managing such a large enterprise at a young age?"

Stella answered confidently, "It's challenging but rewarding. I've learned a lot from my parents, and we have a great team that supports our vision."

My father nodded in approval.

"It's not easy to balance personal and professional life. Jaemin has always spoken about your resilience and dedication."