𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐬 || 𝐏𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐩𝐡𝐮𝐰𝐢𝐧 𝐟𝐟

23

As the wedding day approached, the bustling pace of life seemed to quicken for everyone involved. Pond and Phuwin, had become more focused on their professional commitments. Their meetings, were now primarily centered around work. With the wedding just ten days away, their interactions revolved around finalizing company matters and coordinating wedding preparations.

Phuwin had fully immersed himself in his role as co-CEO at Tangsekyuen, taking on responsibilities in Dunk’s absence. The company was in a crucial phase, especially with the collaboration with Aydin's firm.

Meetings were frequent, and Pond found himself working alongside Phuwin more often, tackling the intricacies of their joint ventures and ensuring everything was on track.

The wedding was set to take place at one of the most luxurious beach resorts, owned by the Tangsekyuen group. The venue choice was ideal, combining the grandeur of a top-tier resort with the picturesque beauty of a beach setting. Preparations were in full swing, with the entire team working tirelessly to ensure every detail was perfect.

Joong and Dunk were overjoyed, their excitement palpable as they eagerly anticipated their big day. Their happiness was infectious, and Phuwin found himself drawn into their joyous world, even as he balanced his heavy workload.

Joong and Phuwin had developed a close bond, often teasing each other and sharing moments of camaraderie. Their playful banter was a welcome distraction from the pressures of work, providing both a sense of normalcy and a reminder of their blooming friendship.

Meanwhile, Gemini and Fourth, though still maintaining their usual dynamic of playful rivalry, joined Phuwin and the others on occasion. Their interactions were more subdued in Phuwin’s presence, but the familiar banter continued, adding a layer of lightheartedness to their busy days.

As the days ticked down to the wedding, the sense of anticipation grew. The resort was being prepared to host not just a wedding but a celebration of love and unity.

The groundwork for the upcoming events was being laid, setting the stage for the culmination of their efforts and the unfolding of new dynamics as the wedding approached.

TIME SKIP

The wedding day was just two days away, and the anticipation was palpable as the Aydins and Tangsekyuen groups arrived at the beach resort. The picturesque view of the resort took everyone's breath away, and the serene beauty of the surroundings was a welcome contrast to the hectic pace of the previous weeks. After checking into their assigned rooms, everyone took a brief respite before regrouping for some sightseeing and final wedding preparations.

As the afternoon sun began to set, they all gathered in the living hall, chatting and catching up. The mood was intended to be light and enjoyable, but Pond remained detached, sitting quietly in a corner. The pressure from his father and the constant reminders about the wedding were weighing heavily on him. His usual enthusiasm was replaced by a deep-seated frustration.

Sora, as usual, was vocal about her dissatisfaction. "I really don't understand why we have to settle for this beach vibe," she complained loudly. "I was hoping for a grand, extravagant wedding in a more prestigious location. But because of Joong and Dunk's choices, we're stuck here. It's really disappointing."

Her complaints quickly soured the atmosphere. "I only agreed to this because of Uncle Earth," she added, her tone dripping with insincerity. "Otherwise, I wouldn’t have agreed to such a compromise."

Earth, feeling guilty, responded, "I’m sorry, Sora. I know this isn’t what you envisioned. We’re doing the best we can."

Pond's frustration bubbled to the surface, but he remained silent, feeling increasingly alienated. Phuwin, who had been quietly observing the situation, struggled to contain his anger. He wanted to argue with Sora, but for Dunk’s sake, he chose to hold his tongue. Instead, he took a different approach, aiming to defuse the situation with a bit of sarcasm.

"Oh, Sora," Phuwin said with a cold edge in his voice, "that’s exactly what I was saying. It’s a problem when two weddings are scheduled on the same date. Nobody wants their special day compromised."

The comment elicited surprised glances from Dunk, Gemini, Fourth, and Pond, who looked at Phuwin with a mix of shock and admiration. Phuwin then turned to Earth, adding, "See, Uncle? This is why Pond wanted to have more time for his wedding. He wanted it to be an individual event so that they could arrange everything as they wanted. But you didn’t agree. Now look at the situation....they’re both feeling unhappy."

Pond’s lips curved into a small, appreciative smirk as Phuwin’s words resonated with him. The realization that Phuwin understood and supported his feelings provided a small sense of relief amidst the chaos.

Dunk, Joong, and the others exchanged knowing smiles, recognizing Phuwin’s attempt to make a point while preserving the celebratory spirit. The tension in the room shifted slightly, as the focus returned to the wedding preparations.

Pond, feeling a flicker of gratitude and a rare hint of satisfaction, allowed himself a moment of respite from his frustration. It was the first time in a while that he felt something other than annoyance and pressure.