Seoul Mates

remaining chapter 1

_Chapter 1: The Return

Min-Soo's gaze lingered on the Seoul skyline as he unpacked. His room was a sanctuary, filled with memories of his childhood. The villa's modern design and lush gardens provided a serene escape from the city's chaos.

As he organized his clothes, Min-Soo's thoughts turned to his new school. Shin Hwa High was notorious for its cutthroat competition and elite student body. But what he didn't know was that his grandmother, Chairman Lee, was the school's founder and owner.

A knock on the door interrupted his reverie. "Halmoni?"

"Come in," Min-Soo replied.

The door opened, revealing a middle-aged woman with a warm smile. "Welcome back, young master. I'm Mrs. Kim, the villa's manager."

Min-Soo bowed slightly. "Annyeonghaseyo, Mrs. Kim."

Mrs. Kim handed him a schedule. "Your grandmother arranged for a tutor to help you adjust to Shin Hwa High's curriculum. Your first session is tomorrow at 2 PM."

Just then, Chairman Lee entered the room. "Min-Soo, I need to discuss something important with you."

"Of course, Halmoni."

Chairman Lee's expression turned serious. "You know Ji-Hyun, the daughter of the Sung family? They're our long-time friends."

Min-Soo nodded vaguely, recalling the name.

"I've decided to arrange an engagement between you and Ji-Hyun," Chairman Lee announced.

Min-Soo's eyes widened. "An engagement? But Halmoni, I—"

Chairman Lee raised a hand. "Hear me out. The Sung family and ours have been friends for years. Ji-Hyun is an exceptional student, and I believe you two will make a great match."

Meanwhile, at the Sung residence, Ji-Hyun's parents discussed her future.

"Ji-Hyun's choice is not suitable," her mother said, concern etched on her face. "We must secure her future with a good family."

"I agree," her father replied. "Chairman Lee proposed an engagement between Ji-Hyun and Min-Soo. It's an excellent opportunity."

Ji-Hyun entered the room, overhearing the conversation. "But Appa, Umma, I—"

Her mother turned. "Ji-Hyun, you'll make an excellent couple with Min-Soo. He's Chairman Lee's grandson, after all."

Ji-Hyun's heart sank. She had always dreamed of choosing her own path.

That evening, Ji-Hyun received a call from Chairman Lee.

"Ji-Hyun-ah, I'm glad you're aware of the engagement proposal," Chairman Lee said warmly. "Min-Soo is a good young man. I'm confident you'll make each other happy."

Ji-Hyun hesitated before responding, "Thank you, Chairman Lee. But I must decline. I don't want to interrupt Min-Soo's studies."

Chairman Lee chuckled. "Nonsense, child. Min-Soo needs a good partner like you. You'll meet soon."

As Ji-Hyun hung up, she wondered what lay ahead.