The Villianess's Redemption (HYUNJIN ff) ✓

4.The First test

Chapter 4: The First Test
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The Next day at Hyunjin's Residence

Y/N's POV

Stepping into the banquet hall of the Hyunjin estate with Leeknow by my side, I felt an overwhelming mixture of excitement and dread. The mansion was even more magnificent than I had imagined from the novel's descriptions, with sprawling gardens, ornate fountains, and intricate floral arrangements.

As we made our entrance, Leeknow leaned down slightly and whispered, "Remember, Isabella, no trouble today. We need to maintain good relations." He offered his arm, and I reluctantly took it, allowing him to lead me into the heart of the gathering.

Before we parted ways, Leeknow shot me a stern look. "Behave," he muttered, then left me to mingle with other guests.

I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the challenge ahead. Scanning the crowd, I spotted Hyunjin and his father, Lord Minhyuk, standing at the front, greeting guests. Hyunjin was even more striking in person, his regal presence and handsome features captivating the room. I couldn't help but admire him, momentarily lost in my thoughts. Eliza soon came and stood next to Hyunjin. They both shared a sweet smile with each other. I was stunned by admiration looking at them.

My admiration was interrupted by a flurry of whispers from a group of girls nearby. "Have you heard? Hyunjin and Eliza have been spending a lot of time together. There are rumors of a marriage proposal to strengthen their families' business ties," one of them said.

"They do look perfect together," another girl added.

I remembered this scene from the novel. In the original story, Isabella  spreads false rumors about Eliza and orchestrates an embarrassing incident where she spills her drink on Eliza's dress and apologizes sarcastically. Determined to avoid repeating those scenes, I decided to steer clear of any interactions with Eliza and avoid her at all cost.

With a deep sigh, I moved towards the buffet, hoping to blend in and avoid drawing attention. I carefully selected some strawberry tart along with some sweets and began to eat, trying to relax in the midst of the bustling crowd.

I tried staying at a particular area and avoid much interactions. The room was filled with music, people were busy dancing, eating and interacting with one another.

As I was admiring the scene around me, I felt a presence behind me.

"Are you enjoying the event?"

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Hyunjin's POV

"Hyunjin, you don't have to stick around with me the whole event. Go around and mingle with the guest."My father  encourages me but my mind was preoccupied with the responsibilities of the event.

After ensuring that the initial greetings were taken care of, I sought out my friend Jisung, who was charming a group of ladies with his usual flair.

"Jisung, always the ladies' man," I teased as I approached.

Jisung grinned. "What can I say? Some of us are born to attract attention. Well I don't blame the ladies since no one in the room is as handsome as me."

We shared a laugh and began discussing recent trade agreements when Sir Bangchan approached, looking concerned. "Lord Hyunjin, I can't find Lady Eliza. She said she was going to the washroom, but she hasn't returned."