As Hwayeong smiled gently, the young ladies behind Heeran visibly wavered.
They still wore polite smiles, but their eyes betrayed their unease.
Taking full advantage, Hwayeong pressed on, brightly.
“The more I see of her, the more I like her. What happened is unfortunate, but I plan to keep her close from now on. I have a feeling she’ll be someone I can rely on.”
“...Is that so?”
“Yes. I have a soft spot for honest people.”
She kept her tone light and open to interpretation, and Heeran, still smiling, replied with careful precision.
“Well, then. I’m glad it’s all been resolved.”
“Yes, it is fortunate. At least an innocent person doesn’t have to take the fall.”
With that final blow, Hwayeong smiled one last time and watched Heeran’s lips tighten. Then, with perfect composure, she gave her farewell.
“Now if you’ll excuse me—I have to prepare for Hongjin’s arrival. She’ll be moving into the room next to mine.”
“She’s moving?”
