CHAPTER 54 - TURNING POINT

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Donghyuck was fully engrossed in the intensity of law school. He spent his days at the university, surrounded by books and cases, wrestling with the intricacies of legal theory and the ethical complexities of the law. It was during one late-night study session that he spotted a familiar face across the library—Park Wonbin.

They'd met back in college when Wonbin had become close to Haeeun. Donghyuck had only known him as that charming guy with a reputation for being suave and persuasive. But here he was, looking just as out of place in the thick of law textbooks as Donghyuck felt.


"Donghyuck?" Wonbin called, walking over with a grin.

"Wonbin," Donghyuck replied, surprised but pleased. "Didn't think I'd see you here."

Wonbin shrugged, gesturing to the stack of books he carried. "Guess life takes us places we never planned on, huh? What about you? How's Haeeun?"

The question was casual, but Donghyuck caught the flicker of nostalgia in Wonbin's expression. "She's doing great. Internship at a therapy center, actually."

Wonbin chuckled, glancing down at the legal text in front of Donghyuck. "And here you are, buried under the law books too. Mind if I join? I could use a study buddy, and we might just survive this semester together."


They clicked instantly, falling into a rhythm that kept them both motivated through the grueling hours of study. Wonbin was sharp, his mind agile as he unraveled complex cases with ease. And though he often teased Donghyuck about his meticulous note-taking, he appreciated the clarity Donghyuck's focus brought to their sessions. They'd joke about cases and share advice, and soon, they became each other's steady companions in the demanding world of law school.


One late evening, as Donghyuck and Wonbin were deep into another study session, Haeeun's phone buzzed with a message from her mother.


Can you come to Baek Holdings tomorrow? There's something we need to discuss.


A familiar unease crept into Haeeun's chest. She had avoided any direct involvement with Baek Holdings as much as possible, but this sounded serious. Gyeol, her father, was also cc'ed in the message, which only added to her anxiety.


The next morning, Haeeun dressed carefully, choosing an outfit that felt both professional and protective, as if it could shield her from whatever awaited. She arrived at Baek Holdings and was greeted by the sight of her parents, both seated in the grand, intimidating conference room.


"Haeeun," Sunha greeted her, smiling in that distant way she reserved for business associates.

Gyeol gave her a reassuring nod, though Haeeun noticed a seriousness in his eyes. "It's good to see you, sweetheart. We wanted to talk to you about the future of Baek Holdings."


Haeeun settled into her chair, her heart pounding in her chest. She had known this conversation would come eventually, but now that it was here, she felt a surge of conflicting emotions.


"I understand that this might not be the career path you imagined," Sunha began, her tone steely. "But Baek Holdings is a legacy. Our legacy. And it's important for us to ensure that it's left in capable hands."

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