A Billionaire For Hanni

Chapter 41

It was Hyein, Minji's secretary, who organized everything. Seeing the growing tension between Minji and Hanni, Hyein decided to intervene, driven by the desire to help her boss and friend take an emotional break. "Minji, you can't keep going like this," she had said in the resolute tone she used only when she was really worried. "There's someone I think could like you. She's intelligent, charming, and... yes, it's Sakura. You surely know who she is."

Minji had hesitated at first. The thought of going out with someone else felt like a cowardly escape, a way of trying to forget Hanni without truly confronting the reality. But after the third time Hanni had told her she didn't love her, something inside her had broken. She accepted the invitation, not so much to seek love but to see if her heart could ever find peace away from Hanni.

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The restaurant chosen by Hyein was perfect: elegant but cozy, with dim lighting and an intimate atmosphere that invited conversation. Sakura was already there when Minji arrived, sitting with the grace of someone used to being the center of attention. She wore a black dress that highlighted her slender figure, and her smile was warm, although there was a spark of curiosity in her eyes that made Minji feel a bit uncomfortable.

"I didn't think you'd accept," Sakura said as Minji sat down at the table. "Hyein told me you're very busy and... let's say, a bit complicated lately."

Minji smiled weakly, gently touching the edge of her glass. "Complicated is the right word. But maybe I needed this. A different evening, a change of perspective."

The conversation between the two flowed surprisingly well. Sakura was witty and insightful, and she knew how to put Minji at ease. They talked about music, Sakura's artistic projects, and even the challenges Minji faced as an entrepreneur. For a brief moment, Minji managed to forget the weight she carried inside, simply enjoying the company of a brilliant and charming woman.

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After dinner, Sakura asked Minji if she could accompany her home. It wasn't an insistent request but rather a gesture that implied the pleasure of prolonging the evening. Despite the confusion still inside her, Minji agreed.

They walked together out of the restaurant, strolling slowly through the lit streets of Seoul. The night was cool, and the light breeze carried the distant echoes of the city's hectic life. Sakura walked gracefully, her hands tucked into the pockets of her coat, while Minji followed just a step behind, her heart heavy.

"Thanks for coming out tonight," Sakura said, breaking the silence. "I wasn't sure Hyein could convince you."

Minji smiled weakly, looking at the pavement ahead of her. "I don't even know why I did it. Maybe... maybe I needed something different, even if just for an evening."

Sakura nodded, a shadow of understanding crossing her face. "I understand what you mean. Sometimes it's hard to let go of certain things, but it's even harder to admit we need to."

Her words hit Minji harder than she wanted to admit. They continued walking in silence until they reached Sakura's building. It was a modern, elegant structure, with warm lights illuminating the entrance. Minji stopped a few steps away, unsure how to end the evening.

"Do you want to come up for a coffee?" Sakura asked, her tone light but with a hint of curiosity.

Minji shook her head. "Thanks, but I think it's better not to. It's already been... intense enough."

Sakura smiled in understanding, taking a step toward her. "I get it. But before you go... can I ask you something?"

Minji looked up, meeting Sakura's gaze, which held a strange mix of sweetness and curiosity. "Of course."