Annyeongz One-shots

38. Wife ?

The Jang estate was too quiet that evening.

Wonyoung stood behind her mother, her hands clasped tightly in front of her skirt. She knew today was important — dangerous, even. Two mafia families meeting under one roof was never simple.

But she didn’t expect the reason for the meeting to be her.

Her father whispered sharply, “Fix your posture. The Ahn family is arriving.”

Wonyoung straightened her back instantly, heart pounding. She had grown up knowing the world her parents were part of, but they never involved her in it — until tonight.

A line of black cars rolled through their gates like shadows swallowing the driveway.

The Ahn family had arrived.

Men in dark suits stepped out first, scanning the area, hands close to their hidden weapons. Then, from the center car, a tall young man stepped out.

Black suit.
Cold eyes.
Expression unreadable.

Ahn Yujin.

The heir.
The one everyone feared.
Barely in his twenties, yet already carrying the kind of power that made grown men tremble.

He didn’t look around. Didn’t greet anyone. He simply walked forward with steady, confident steps, shoulders relaxed as if he feared nothing.

Wonyoung swallowed hard.

This was the man her parents hoped to tie their family to.

But he wasn’t looking at her.
He wasn’t looking at anyone except her father.

They gathered in the formal hall — an enormous space filled with polished wood, expensive art, and the heavy air of negotiation.

Yujin sat across from Wonyoung’s father, legs crossed, hands clasped lightly. He looked calm. Too calm.

Her father cleared his throat.

“You must know why we requested this meeting,” he began.

Yujin leaned back slightly. “A merger. Political alliance. Mutual protection.” His tone was flat, bored even. “I’m aware.”

Her mother placed a gentle hand on Wonyoung’s back, urging her forward.

“And this,” her mother said softly, “is our daughter.”

Only then did Yujin raise his eyes.

Their gazes met for the first time.

Wonyoung’s breath caught.
Not because of his looks — though he was striking, all sharp lines and quiet danger — but because of the complete lack of reaction on his face.

He didn’t smile.
Didn’t nod.
Didn’t even blink.

He simply looked at her like she was another item on the negotiation list.

“So,” Yujin said, voice low, “you want me to marry her.”

Wonyoung stiffened.

Her father nodded. “It benefits both families.”

“And what does she think?” Yujin asked, eyes still locked on her.

The question startled everyone. Even the guards shifted.

Wonyoung opened her mouth — but no sound came out.

She didn’t know how to answer.
She didn’t even know this man.
All she knew was the pressure on her shoulders, the unspoken command to say yes.