The Villianess's Redemption (HYUNJIN ff) ✓

8. Unspoken Desires and Fractured Moments

Chapter 8: Unspoken Desires and Fractured Moments
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Y/N's POV

Mary tugged gently at the laces of my gown, her deft fingers weaving the delicate ties with practiced ease. As she worked, I couldn't help but reflect on the events of the past few days.

Jasmine and I had spent countless hours strategizing our approach to Eliza's birthday party. Despite my initial skepticism, Jasmine had convinced me that befriending Eliza was essential to our plan. Her unwavering confidence and reassuring words had bolstered my resolve, even though the thought of facing Eliza after my recent social blunder still made me nervous.

"Mary, do you think this will work?Do you think she will accept my apology?" I asked, my voice tinged with uncertainty.

Mary paused, meeting my gaze in the mirror. "Lady Isabella, you have a good heart. Just be yourself, and Lady Eliza will see that."

I nodded, taking a deep breath. "Thank you, Mary. I hope you're right."

As Mary finished tying the final lace, I stood and smoothed the fabric of my gown. The reflection staring back at me looked composed, but beneath the surface, my heart raced with anticipation.

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At Eliza's residence

Y/N's POV

The maid who answered the door at Eliza's estate led me through the grand halls to a cozy living room, where she informed me that Lady Eliza would join me shortly. I took a seat, my mind racing with rehearsed apologies and explanations.

Just then a furious Seungmin stormed into the room, his eyes blazing with anger. "What are you doing here?" he demanded.

"I... I came to apologize to Lady Eliza," I stammered, taken aback by his hostility.

Seungmin's eyes narrowed. "Apologize? Or are you here to cause more trouble? I know your type, Isabella. You get close to people just to tear them Don't you dare try anything on my sister."

Before I could respond, Eliza entered the room, her presence instantly calming the charged atmosphere. "Seungmin, please leave her alone and do treat my guest like that" she said firmly.

Seungmin hesitated, casting one last suspicious glance my way before leaving the room. Eliza turned to me with a warm smile. "I apologize for my brother's behavior, Isabella. Please, have a seat."

"Thank you, Lady Eliza," I said, my voice steadying. "I came to apologize for the incident at Hyunjin's gathering. It was never my intention to cause any harm."

Eliza waved her hand dismissively. "There's no need to apologize, Isabella. It was just an accident. Are you doing well?"

"I'm fine," I replied, relieved by her understanding. "How are you? I hope you weren't hurt."

Eliza's smile widened. "Just some minor cuts. Nothing to worry about."

We continued talking, and as the conversation flowed, I found myself genuinely enjoying Eliza's company. Her kindness and open-heartedness were evident in every word she spoke.

"I have to admit, Isabella," Eliza said suddenly, "I approached you that day because I thought we could be friends."

Her words left me stunned. "Friends?" I repeated, barely able to process her offer.

Eliza nodded. "Yes, I don't think you're a bad person, Isabella. I see the good in you."

I felt a lump form in my throat, and small tears pricked at the corners of my eyes. "Thank you, Eliza. I would love to be friends."