Chapter 2: Unexpected Encounters
The next morning, Seoul's cold was sharper than ever, and Lian wrapped her scarf tighter around her neck as she made her way toward the sleek office building where she had landed a new project. Her heart still raced from the encounter the night before — the piercing gaze of Lee Nomin haunted her thoughts more than she expected.
She tried to focus on her work, but the memory of his voice and those cold eyes lingered. Why did he seem… different when he smirked? she wondered.
Inside the glass-walled conference room, her team was already gathered. Lian took her seat quietly, trying to avoid drawing attention. Just as she pulled out her notes, the door opened — and in walked Lee Nomin.
A hush fell over the room.
His sharp eyes immediately found hers. "Good morning," he said curtly, his tone as cold as the winter air outside.
Lian forced a smile. "Good morning, Mr. Lee."
The meeting began, but the tension was palpable. Nomin's piercing questions and subtle jabs made it clear he was sizing her up — and not entirely approving. Yet Lian stood her ground, answering with confidence, refusing to let him intimidate her.
By the end of the session, something had shifted — a grudging respect mingled with the simmering rivalry. As everyone packed up, Nomin approached her desk.
"You have potential," he said quietly, "but potential means nothing without discipline."
Lian met his gaze steadily. "And discipline means nothing without heart."
He paused, as if weighing her words. "We'll see if yours lasts."
As Nomin walked away, Lian felt a strange flutter — irritation, challenge… or maybe something else.
The fight between them had just begun.