THE RELENTLESS GAZE

12.

The grand hall of Jeon Enterprises was transformed into an opulent masterpiece, a setting fit for royalty.

The staff worked tirelessly, ensuring that every detail was perfect for the engagement of Jeon Jungkook and Yoon Ah-ra. Chandeliers of crystal shimmered from the high vaulted ceiling, casting a warm, golden glow over the expansive room.

The walls, covered in silk drapes of soft champagne and gold, added an air of elegance. Large, floral arrangements in hues of white, blush pink, and pale gold adorned every corner, their delicate fragrance mingling with the scent of polished wood and expensive perfume.

At the center of the hall, a long, grand table was set with the finest china and crystal glasses, the centerpiece a lavish arrangement of roses and orchids.

Golden candelabras were placed carefully along the table, their flickering flames adding a romantic ambiance to the space. The marble floor gleamed under the light, reflecting the grandeur of the room.

Everything was in place for what would be one of the most talked-about events of the year.

Ah-ra entered the hall, and all eyes turned toward her. She was dressed in a stunning blush pink dress.

The dress was both ethereal and sultry, a perfect blend of sophistication and sensuality.

It clung to her slim frame in all the right places, the soft, ruched fabric wrapping around her body like a second skin.

The halter neck design revealed her elegant shoulders, while the sheer, balloon-like sleeves added a touch of whimsical charm.

A delicate flower, made of the same material, rested on the bodice, drawing attention to her décolletage.

The dress flowed down her figure, ending just above her knees, showing off her long, toned legs. Her black hair cascaded in soft waves down her back, and her makeup was kept light and dewy, emphasizing her natural beauty.

Her lips were painted in a soft pink, matching the tone of her dress, and her blue eyes sparkled with an understated confidence.

As Ah-ra gracefully walked into the hall, the staff couldn’t help but admire her beauty. She was the epitome of elegance, her every step a picture of poise and grace.

Jungkook, standing by the entrance to greet her, couldn't take his eyes off her. His heart raced as he watched her approach, and for a brief moment, everything else in the grand hall faded away. It was as though she was the only one in the room.

"Ah-ra," Jungkook greeted her with a slight bow, his voice deep and warm, "you look stunning."

Ah-ra smiled softly, though her mind was still racing with the reality of the situation.

This was all for business, she reminded herself. This wasn’t love. Yet, the way Jungkook looked at her made her stomach flutter in a way she hadn’t expected.

"Thank you," she replied, her voice smooth and composed. "You’re not too bad yourself."

Jungkook chuckled lightly, dressed in a perfectly tailored black suit that accentuated his broad shoulders and slim figure.

He extended his arm, and she hesitated for only a fraction of a second before slipping her hand into the crook of his elbow.

Together, they walked into the hall, their entrance marked by the soft murmur of admiration from the guests.

The engagement ceremony began with formalities, as the families exchanged pleasantries and finalized the union that would solidify the business alliance.

Despite the public nature of the event, Jungkook couldn’t shake the feeling that this moment was more intimate than it appeared.

Every glance Ah-ra gave him, every subtle touch of her hand against his, made him want more. She was everything he could have imagined, and more.

As the night progressed, the engagement rings were brought out on a silver tray.

The band Jungkook picked for Ah-ra was a simple yet elegant piece, a band of white gold adorned with a single, brilliant diamond that caught the light perfectly.

As he slipped the ring onto her finger, a silence fell over the room, and for a brief moment, it was just the two of them.

Their eyes met, and something unspoken passed between them.

Ah-ra, who had promised herself to keep things strictly professional, found herself momentarily lost in the warmth of Jungkook’s gaze. But as soon as the moment passed, she reminded herself of her priorities. This was still just business. Or so she told herself.