Lines Blurred, Traces Found (Published Under Ukiyoto Publishing)

Chapter 32: Hyunjie's Heart Divided

Hyunjie's Heart Divided

"Hyunjie, sometimes the hardest battles are those within. Listen to your heart; it's trying to tell you something." Maya's voice broke the silence, her tone gentle.

Hyunjie's gaze remained distant, her thoughts consumed by Eros and the forbidden connection between them. The cityscape outside blurred, replaced by memories of fleeting moments, stolen glances and whispered promises.

As the car glided smoothly through the streets, the tension within its confines grew, each passenger lost in their own world. The destination, the Phoenix hermitage, beckoned, promising refuge but also confrontation.

"I didn't intend to interrupt your thoughts, Hyunjie, but we both understand the situation surrounding us now," Maya went on. "And there is no other justification for doubting my nature. We encountered each other by chance; up to this moment, do you still hate me?"
 
Hyunjie confronted Maya, but her demeanor appeared serious and challenging. "Honestly, Maya, I still dislike you because Harry encountered you within the syndicate, yet I don’t want to hold you accountable for your history," she expressed. "I understand it’s not your fault that you became involved with that syndicate, and upon learning about what you endured, I feel as though I’m experiencing your circumstances.

Look, I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me because I blamed you for what I believed was Harry’s death, but I’m holding a resentment, Maya. Our parents are no longer with us, so I refuse to let my brother be lost by my side again."
 
Maya's warm fingers enveloped Hyunjie's hand, her eyes shining sincerely. "I understand your concerns, and that's precisely why I want to make amends and start anew. I promise you and Harry that I'm ready to change my life. I'll steer clear of trouble and wrongdoing, dedicating myself to protecting him, just as he does for me. My feelings for Harry run deep – I truly love him, Hyunjie."

Hyunjie's gaze softened, her resolve weakening at Maya's heartfelt words. She saw sincerity in Maya's eyes and felt the warmth of her touch. For the first time, she considered the possibility that Maya genuinely cared for Harry.

"I can see that my brother is deeply in love with you, Maya," she said gently. "As long as Harry's heart is filled with joy because of you, I have no reason to dislike you as his partner. You've earned my trust, and I'm happy to support your relationship. You can start making plans for your future together — building a loving home, creating unforgettable memories and growing a beautiful family."
 
Maya's eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief as she shook her head. "He hasn't proposed to me yet," she said with a gentle smile. "Harry and I made a promise to each other: when the time is right, and our paths are clear, we'll take that next step together."

Hyunjie's lips curved into a warm smile. "I'm sure Harry will surprise you soon." She glanced out the window, her thoughts drifting back to Eros. The Phoenix Hermitage loomed ahead, its serene facade a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within her.

Harry's arrival was met with warm smiles as he approached the two women deep in conversation. Maya's eyes lit up, and she reached out, her voice filled with affection. "Everything okay?" she asked.
 
"Yeah, but..." Harry's expression turned conflicted, his eyes searching for clarity. "To be honest, I'm torn," he admitted, his voice laced with frustration. "They're ordering me back to my old FBI job, but I'm thinking about the Phoenix crew. As captain of the Phoenix ship, I feel responsible for their safety and well-being. Leaving them would be like abandoning family."
 
Maya and Hyunjie exchanged uneasy glances, acknowledging the complexity of Harry's dilemma. Harry waved his hand dismissively. "Never mind, I'll figure it out." His expression turned thoughtful as he faced Hyunjie. "What's been weighing on my mind is your well-being, Hyunjie. You've been through so much. What are your plans now?"
 
Hyunjie's gaze fell, her shoulders sagging under the weight of uncertainty. "To be honest, Harry, I'm completely lost. I don't know what's next for me," she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper.