At the Vice Chairman’s dining table, the atmosphere radiated quiet elegance. The room was bathed in warm light, the understated luxury of the space reflected in the careful arrangement of the silverware and the soft hum of conversation. The West family had joined them for lunch, adding a touch of casual sophistication to the gathering. At the head of the table sat the Chairman, his presence both commanding and relaxed. He looked over his family and guests with a subtle air of satisfaction. Beside him, Youn-Jae sat with a polite smile, though his eyes flickered down to his phone beneath the table every so often, his expression unreadable.

Across from him, Mr. Anderson, Tobi’s father, was seated comfortably next to Seo-Joon, engaged in light conversation. The clinking of silverware and the murmur of voices filled the room as they enjoyed their meal, the conversation flowing easily like a well-rehearsed social dance.

Tobi leaned in slightly toward Youn-Jae, her lips curving into a playful smile as she whispered something teasing in his ear. He let out a soft chuckle, his eyes meeting hers for a brief moment with a glint of mischief before returning to his composed demeanor.

The Chairman noticed the interaction, a satisfied smile playing at the corners of his mouth. “It seems the kids are very comfortable with each other, isn’t it, Anderson?” His voice carried warmth and approval, his gaze shifting between the younger generation.

Mr. Anderson nodded, mirroring the Chairman’s enthusiasm. “That’s why I had no doubt when you suggested the marriage proposal. They get along so well.”

Seo-Joon, always eager to seize a moment, leaned forward with an excited glint in his eye. “Since we’re all here, why don’t we talk about the wedding plans?” His voice carried a casual eagerness, though his eyes darted toward Youn-Jae with a knowing look.

Youn-Jae, who had been observing quietly, frowned slightly, his expression growing more serious. “Aren’t we moving too fast?” His voice was firm yet respectful, his concern apparent as his brow furrowed.

Seo-Joon raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a teasing smirk. “What rush? You’re at the perfect age to start a new chapter in your life,” he countered, his tone light but with a hint of provocation, clearly enjoying the chance to push his brother.

Youn-Jae’s gaze softened as he glanced at Tobi, his voice quieter but still resolute. “But, Hyung, we should also consider Tobi’s opinion in all of this.”

Tobi, who had been quietly following the exchange, nodded in agreement. Her posture was relaxed, but her voice held a note of seriousness. “Actually, I agree with Youn-Jae. Yes, we know each other well, but being friends and being in love are two very different things.” Her eyes met Youn-Jae’s briefly, the sincerity in her words evident.

The Chairman chuckled, his deep voice cutting through the tension that had settled over the table. “Oh, look at our kids—so considerate of each other’s feelings,” he said with a lighthearted tone.

A ripple of laughter moved around the table, and the group resumed their lunch, the conversation shifting to lighter topics. Youn-Jae exhaled softly, a small sigh of relief escaping him. He was grateful that they had managed to steer the conversation away from the marriage plans, at least for now.

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After lunch, the West family departed, their car disappearing down the long drive. As the Chairman turned to walk back into the house, his steps were measured and calm, his mind already elsewhere. Youn-Jae and Seo-Joon followed behind him, their expressions vastly different—Seo-Joon’s eyes were sharp with unspoken irritation, while Youn-Jae seemed lost in thought.

"Father, aren’t you going to reprimand Youn-Jae about last time?" Seo-Joon’s voice was edged with expectation, his words dripping with a subtle challenge as he shot a side glance at Youn-Jae, clearly expecting more than a mild rebuke.

The Chairman paused, his hand resting lightly on the doorframe as he glanced over his shoulder at his sons. "Just be more careful with your actions from now on and stop messing around in bars." he said, his tone calm but the meaning behind his words unmistakable. His gaze lingered on Youn-Jae, the weight of his expectations clear.

“That’s it?” Seo-Joon muttered under his breath, shaking his head in disbelief, his lips curling in frustration at what he perceived as leniency.

As they moved further into the house, Youn-Jae quickened his pace to catch up with his father, hesitation evident in his steps. “Father… actually, I was wondering if I could go back to Germany tomorrow?” His voice was cautious, betraying the tension he felt beneath his composed exterior.

The Chairman stopped and turned to face him fully, his gaze steady. “What’s the rush? You should enjoy your time here with your brother,” he replied, his voice calm but firm, leaving little room for argument.

Youn-Jae hesitated, knowing that the connection with his brother had always been distant. He glanced at Seo-Joon, the unspoken distance between them palpable. “But you’re going back to Korea tomorrow, and I’ve left a load of work in Germany,” he explained, trying to mask his discomfort with a practical reason.

The Chairman nodded thoughtfully, then made his decision. "Stay here for another week. Actually, I’d prefer if you extended your stay even longer. You can ask your brother to help you with business matters here, so you can learn more about the operations,” he suggested, his tone final.

Before Youn-Jae could respond, Seo-Joon’s voice cut through the air, sharp and dismissive. “Father, if Youn-Jae wants to go back to Germany, let him. I don’t need him here,” he said coldly, barely glancing at his brother as he walked ahead, his indifference clear.

Youn-Jae’s jaw clenched, a flicker of frustration and resignation crossing his face. The divide between him and Seo-Joon felt insurmountable, the silence between them more telling than words.

The Chairman resumed walking, his steps firm. “Extend your stay. That’s final,” he stated, his tone brooking no further discussion. The authority in his voice was undeniable.

Seo-Joon, already several paces ahead, turned briefly, his eyes narrowing as he shot a sharp, disapproving glare at Youn-Jae. His annoyance simmered just beneath the surface, his pace quickening as if eager to distance himself from the conversation.

Just then, Secretary Min approached Youn-Jae, his voice soft and concerned. “President…” he began, sensing the tension in Youn-Jae’s demeanor.

Youn-Jae didn’t respond immediately. His jaw tightened as he strode toward the door, his footsteps heavy with frustration. Without a word, he pushed the door open and stepped outside, the cool air hitting his face. His movements were tense, his irritation visible in the way he yanked the car door open and slid into the driver’s seat.

Secretary Min hurried after him, quickly getting into the passenger seat. Youn-Jae gripped the steering wheel tightly, his eyes fixed straight ahead, his knuckles white from the pressure. He started the engine, the tires screeching slightly as the car sped away from the mansion, leaving a tense silence in its wake.

The story doesn't end here......