Lines Blurred, Traces Found (Published Under Ukiyoto Publishing)

Chapter 35: Surrender To Devotion

Chapter 35: Surrender To Devotion

Mr. Chwe let out a deep sigh, his expression a mix of frustration and concern. He rubbed his temples, as if trying to ward off a headache. "I hope you understand why I am so strict now when it comes to my staff and people here at the hotel," he said. He looked at Hyunjie, his eyes searching for understanding. "I just want to maintain the order of the hotel. I want to ensure that every guest has a wonderful stay, and that every staff member can work in a safe and respectful environment." He paused, collecting his thoughts.

"But I also don't want any of you to be in trouble again because of someone else's negligence," he added, his voice taking on a serious tone. "We've had too many close calls already, and I don't want to see anyone get hurt or suffer because of someone else's carelessness." He shook his head, his expression stern.

"For sure, everyone will need to compromise and work together to achieve our goals," he concluded, his eyes locking onto Hyunjie's. "I need every staff member to be on board, to follow the rules and procedures, and to look out for one another." He paused, studying Hyunjie's face.

Hyunjie bowed her head slightly, her eyes cast downward in a sign of respect and understanding. She nodded to herself, as if processing Mr. Chwe's words and ensuring she grasped his message. "If everything hasn't become clear to you, okay, fine," Mr. Chwe continued. "I know there's something going on in your head about how I'm behaving. You're wondering why I'm like this, and why I'm being strict with you. I want to assure you, Ms. Delano, I'm not controlling you, and I'm not obsessing with you." He shook his head, his eyes never leaving Hyunjie's face. "I'm just trying to protect you, to ensure that you're safe and happy here at the hotel."

Mr. Chwe's expression softened, and his voice took on a gentle tone. "I may like you," he admitted, his words barely above a whisper. "But not in the way you think. I care about you deeply, Ms. Delano, but it's not romantic. It's more like... a deep respect and admiration for the person you are." He paused, his eyes searching Hyunjie's face for understanding. "You're an exceptional person, Ms. Delano, and I value your presence here at the hotel."

"Mr. Chwe..."

"Like I said, I saw you as a genius in taking care of the guests here at the hotel," Mr. Chwe continued. "You impressed me with the way you encourage each person around you, and I wasn't wrong to put you in the position you're in." Hyunjie's eyes widened slightly, her expression a mix of surprise and curiosity. "I know you're still asking why? Well, I know your brother, Ms. Delano." Hyunjie's frown deepened, her eyebrows furrowing in confusion.

"W-What?" she stuttered, her voice barely above a whisper. She seemed to be taken aback by Mr. Chwe's revelation.

"No need to be confused, Ms. Delano. Your parents are well-known businessmen here in Korea before." He paused, as if collecting his thoughts. "I remember attending a grand ball where I met them, along with your brother, Harry Delano," Mr. Chwe continued. "I was impressed by their success and their kindness. And then, I met your brother again last year." Hyunjie's eyes widened in surprise.

"I thought he was dead," Mr. Chwe said, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness. "But he explained to me what happened, and I was shocked by his story. He told me... to protect you here. That's all. He wanted to ensure your safety and well-being, and I promised him that I would do everything in my power to protect you."

Hyunjie took a deep breath, her chest rising and falling with the motion, and then sighed softly, her shoulders relaxing slightly. "Is that so?" she said. "Then there's nothing to worry about, Mr. Chwe," she continued, her tone reassuring.

Hyunjie's gaze locked onto Mr. Chwe's, their eyes meeting in a direct and unflinching stare. Mr. Chwe's expression was unreadable, his eyes narrowed slightly as he studied Hyunjie's face.."My boyfriend knows how I act and move," Hyunjie said, her voice steady and confident. "That's why... he's just making sure there's no other man in my life… but only him." Her words hung in the air, a subtle hint of possessiveness and protection underlying her tone.