If This Isn't Love

69: JULY 2023: Off the Market

Seokjin and Luisa stood on the warm, soft sand, gazing out at the tranquil Galveston beach as the early morning sun cast a golden sheen over the waves. They had chosen to hold their official wedding here, near the spot where they had vacationed years ago—a place charged with memories, symbolizing the enduring love they had nurtured over the years.

"I think this is perfect," Luisa said, her voice carried softly by the gentle breeze.

Seokjin squeezed her hand affectionately. "I'm so glad you feel that way. I've taken care of all the permits and paperwork to host our wedding here. I want everything to be as close to perfect as it can be." He locked eyes with her, sincerity shining through. "Anything for you, my love."

A smile spread across her face as she turned her gaze back to the expansive blue sky above the glistening waves. "It really will be perfect."

After a few moments of shared silence, they began their walk back to the house they had rented for their short getaway. Their friends would arrive on the third day, just in time for the wedding, which was planned for the following afternoon.

Luisa felt a thrill of excitement knowing how quickly Seokjin had managed to arrange everything, but she also recognized that his financial means and connections had made it possible. What she cherished most, however, was how he never flaunted his wealth or status. He remained the same Kim Seokjin she had fallen in love with back in college—a kind, funny man who had perhaps just acquired a bit more polish over the years.

Even now, she couldn't help but notice how he had grown more handsome with time. It was hard to ignore the appreciative glances he drew from other women whenever they were out together. Some were subtle, casting quick glances at him when they walked by, while others were more bold, openly admiring him and even brushing against him, completely disregarding her presence at his side. Yet, no matter the distractions, Luisa knew that his heart was hers, and that was all that mattered.

Seokjin paid no attention to the women who looked his way. He kept his gaze firmly planted on Luisa, fully aware of the pain their relationship had endured in the past due to outside distractions. He would never allow anyone, or anything, to jeopardize her happiness again.

So, when the daughter of the older couple who was renting their house to them showed up with increasingly creative excuses to chat with him, he responded with measured indifference. Each time she initiated small talk, he kept his answers short and to the point, hoping she would take the hint and back off. He chose not to mention her flirtatious behavior to Luisa after the first time she did that, not wanting to stir up unnecessary worries or upset her. Seokjin believed that as long as he remained resolute in his disinterest, she would eventually get the message and move on.

But there she was again the next day, casually perched at the kitchen counter while Seokjin prepared a light lunch for himself, all the while Luisa was out shopping. He couldn't help but notice the skimpy swimsuit she wore beneath her coverup, an obvious nod to her supposed trip to the beach, despite his efforts to avert his gaze.

The twenty-three-year-old woman made an exaggerated show of pulling her long blonde hair back, stretching her arms high above her head, a calculated move that highlighted her cleavage.

"So, why are you guys having a beach wedding?" she asked, ensuring her coverup concealed little. "Are you really not married yet?"

Seokjin focused on the stove, trying to keep his composure. "Yes, we're married. We just didn't have a big wedding with all the bells and whistles, or a priest. I think Luisa deserves that. I want to give her everything she desires."

"Uh-huh," the blonde replied, her tone teasing. "So you just rushed into a courthouse wedding then. What was the hurry? Afraid you'd change your mind?"

Seokjin turned around, caught off guard by her bold posture at the table. Her ample curves practically spilled over the marble surface as she leaned forward, making it very difficult for him to concentrate.