DOWNFALL -HIERARCHY

Chapter 20: The Boyfriend

Narrator's POV:
TW: mention of Vi0lence

"You didn't know? It was a rumor I had heard." Mrs. An said, her voice even and nonchalant. "I'm unsure of the truth to it , but they appeared to be on rocky terms lately."

Chairman Park, who had been quietly observing the conversation, sensing the tension growing in the air. "About this friendship between Kim Ri-an and Hwang Nabi" he inquired, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity. "I've heard some whispers about them as well."

"If there is any truth to the rumors," Chairman Park mused, his voice holding a touch of gravity, "the implications could be rather significant, don't you think?"

Mr. Jung and Mrs. Hwang exchanged glances, the implication in Chairman Park's words not lost on them. The table fell silent for a moment, each of them contemplating the potential implications of a romantic relationship between Nabi and Ri-an.

Chairman Park leaned back in his chair, a contemplative look in his eyes. "You know, Jooshin Group and Hwang family have been business rivals for years, isn't that right Mrs. Hwang?" he began and Mrs. Hwang nodded to him as a response. "But the idea of a potential union between Nabi and Ri-an... it could change the landscape entirely."

"A union?" Mrs. Hwang repeated, the concept obviously intriguing to her. Chairman Park nodded, a knowing glint in his eyes. "Yes, a union. Families bonding through marriage has been tradition for centuries," he said. "It's a way to connect, to strengthen bonds, both business and personal."

Chairman Park smiled, his eyes gleaming with a touch of ambition. "If that were to happen," he said, his voice dropping to a low tone, "Jooshin and Hwang would be the most influential people in Korea. The businesses, connections,  and power, it would surpass anything seen before."

"The Hwang family's assets alone are immense," he began. "But combined with Jooshin Group, it would be astronomical. It would extend across multiple industries, with access to resources and it would influence a lot in the business world."

Mr. Jung's expression darkened, a hint of annoyance in his eyes. He fidgeted in his seat, clearly displeased with the idea. Mrs. Hwang, on the other hand, was visibly intrigued by the prospect, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

"Well, if the kids are in love, then I suppose there's not much anyone can do about it," Mrs. Hwang said, her voice carrying a hint of resignation. "Love tends to defy logic and reason, after all."

Mr. Jung huffed, his annoyance only growing. "Love? It's not just about love. It's about the business at stake here," he grumbled. "Money and power, that's what matters."

"Oh, you old traditionalist," Mrs. Hwang chuckled as she replied, "Sometimes, love can be the best business decision of all."

Mrs. An, spoke up. "Perhaps there's some aspect to consider too," she said. "Love might not always be the primary factor in business, but it can bring unexpected benefits."

Chairman Park nodded in agreement, a satisfied smile playing on his lips. "Exactly," he said, taking a sip of his drink. "Sometimes, the bonds formed through love can lead to unforeseen advantages and opportunities. Love is not always the enemy of business, sometimes it can be a powerful ally."

A few moments later Nabi and Ri-an approached their table, the conversation instantly halted, all eyes turning to the pair. The three elders except Chairman Park regarded them with thinly veiled curiosity and judgment. Chairman Park on the other hand observed them with a guarded gaze.