The Villianess's Redemption (HYUNJIN ff) ✓

18.A Ride into the Unknown

Chapter 18: A Ride into the Unknown
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Y/N’s POV

The morning air was crisp as I made my way through the hallway, my mind still heavy with the events of the previous day. My thoughts drifted to the yacht ride planned for today—something that should have been a relaxing escape from the tension that had plagued us recently, but instead filled me with unease. The uncertainty of what had happened, what had been overheard, and the lurking danger made everything feel precarious.

As I approached the front door, I was startled by the sudden appearance of Leeknow, my older brother, standing in the hallway, his usual stern expression softened with a hint of something unfamiliar—was it warmth?

"Isabella," he called out, his voice gentle, yet still holding that authoritative tone he always carried. "Where are you headed?"

For a moment, I was taken aback, not just by his presence, but by the kindness in his eyes. Leeknow had always been protective, but his methods were often harsh, calculated, and rarely affectionate. His sudden change in demeanor left me unsure of how to respond.

"I'm going to Hyunjin's place," I replied, still slightly off balance. "We're taking a yacht ride."

Leeknow’s eyes flickered with surprise, but he nodded. "That's good. It’s nice to see you spending time with others, making friends."

I blinked at him, surprised by his words. He had never been one to comment on my social life, much less approve of it.

Before I could respond, he took a step closer, reaching out to ruffle my hair in a gesture that was both brotherly and… caring. "Take care of yourself out there," he added with a small smile, a softness in his tone that I had never heard before.

And with that, he turned and walked away, leaving me standing there in the hallway, my heart pounding with confusion. Leeknow had never been so openly kind to me before. What had changed? Was he genuinely happy for me, or was this just another part of the complex web of emotions and schemes that seemed to envelop our lives?

Shaking off my confusion, I continued on my way, trying to push the interaction from my mind. There was no point in dwelling on it now—I had to focus on the day ahead.

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At Hyunjin’s Estate

When I arrived at Hyunjin’s estate, I found him and Eliza waiting by the dock where the yacht was moored. The yacht was smaller than I had imagined, more intimate, perfect for a small group. It bobbed gently in the water, its sleek design glistening under the morning sun. The sight of it should have filled me with excitement, but instead, it only made the knot in my stomach tighten.

I was shocked at how I never noticed this beautiful lake nearby Hyunjin's house the last time I visited the place.

"Am I too early?" I asked, trying to keep my voice light as I approached them.

Hyunjin shook his head. "Not at all. We’re just waiting for Jisung."

But then Eliza sighed softly. "Actually, Jisung won’t be able to make it. He got called away on some urgent errands by his father, so it’s just the three of us."

I felt a pang of disappointment, but I nodded. "I see."

Eliza gave me an apologetic smile. "I’m sorry about the last-minute change. I was really looking forward to all of us going together."

Before I could respond, a knight approached us, his expression grave. "Lady Eliza, there’s been a message from the manor. The doctor who’s been treating you has requested an urgent appointment. He’s leaving town soon and needs to see you before he goes.Lord Felix has arrived to take you."