If there's one thing I've learned, it's that when my grandfather and Bo-ra's parents team up, nothing good comes out of it. Especially when their shared goal is to transform our fake marriage into a real one, complete with a grandchild.
I should've known something was amiss when Grandpa handed me a sealed envelope labeled "Confidential Work Assignment." The contents? A brochure for a luxurious mountain resort and a note: "A special project for you and Bo-ra. Quality time is essential for a successful partnership."
Bo-ra raised an eyebrow as she read the note. "Quality time? Since when does evaluating a resort require an overnight stay?"
I sighed, already sensing the impending chaos. "Since our families decided to play matchmakers."
---
The resort was breathtaking. Nestled amidst towering pines, it boasted panoramic views of the mountains and a serene lake that mirrored the sky. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine needles and blooming wildflowers.
As we approached the reception, a cheerful attendant greeted us. "Welcome, Mr. and Mrs. Kang! We've prepared the honeymoon suite for your stay."
Bo-ra choked on her laughter, elbowing me playfully. "Honeymoon suite? How... romantic."
I forced a smile, my cheeks burning. "Just a misunderstanding. We're here for work."
The attendant winked. "Of course, sir. Enjoy your work."
---
The suite was the epitome of romance. A king-sized bed adorned with rose petals, a fireplace crackling warmly, and a balcony offering a view of the moonlit lake.
Bo-ra twirled around, taking in the ambiance. "Wow, they really went all out. Makes you wonder what kind of 'work' we're supposed to be doing."
I groaned, flopping onto the couch. "This is a setup. Our families are conspiring against us."
She joined me, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Well, if we're being forced into this, might as well enjoy the amenities."
---
Dinner was served on the balcony. A table set for two, illuminated by soft candlelight, with the lake shimmering below.
Bo-ra raised her glass. "To unexpected adventures."
I clinked my glass against hers. "And to surviving our families' schemes."
As we dined, the conversation flowed effortlessly. We reminisced about our college days, shared embarrassing stories, and laughed until our sides hurt.
At one point, Bo-ra reached out, brushing a crumb from my cheek. Our eyes met, and for a moment, the world faded away.
"You still eat like a toddler," she teased.
"Hey, I'm a very refined adult," I protested, raising my eyebrows.
"Oh really?" She narrowed her eyes playfully. "You literally spilled sauce on your shirt five minutes ago."
I looked down, realizing she was right. "That was a tactical distraction. I was testing your attention to detail."
"Smooth, Kang Yul. Real smooth."
---
After dinner, we decided to explore the resort grounds. The path was lit by lanterns, casting a golden glow on the cobblestone trail.
The evening air wrapped around us like a soft blanket, scented with the faint fragrance of lavender and pine. Our footsteps crunched on the gravel path as cicadas hummed in the distance.
"Do you think they actually believe we're gonna fall in love and give them a grandchild just because we shared a room?" Bo-ra asked, nudging me with her elbow.
I smirked. "Grandpa already has the baby clothes picked out."
She laughed, the sound echoing through the trees. "Your family is unhinged."
"Says the girl whose parents printed out a fake wedding photo and hung it in their living room."
We both laughed until Bo-ra stumbled on a loose stone. I caught her just in time, my hands on her waist, her face inches from mine.
Time seemed to stand still.
Without thinking, we leaned in, our lips meeting in a gentle kiss.
It was brief, unplanned, but it sent a jolt through my heart.
We pulled away, both blushing furiously.
"I... I'm sorry," I stammered.
Bo-ra looked away, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's okay. It was... unexpected."
---
Back in the suite, the atmosphere was thick with unspoken words. Bo-ra retreated to the bathroom, and I sat by the fireplace, staring into the flames.
What was happening? This was supposed to be a fake marriage, a facade. But the kiss felt real. Too real.
Was it just the setting? The ambiance? Or was there something more? Something I was too stubborn to admit?
Bo-ra emerged, dressed in her pajamas—a simple oversized t-shirt and plaid shorts—but somehow, she looked like she belonged in a drama.
She avoided my gaze and slipped under the covers.
I stood up, hesitating. "Bo-ra, about earlier..."
She shook her head, pulling the blanket up to her chin. "Let's not overthink it. It was just the moment."
But as we settled into bed, lying side by side, the distance between us felt both vast and nonexistent.
I stared at the ceiling.
"You know," I murmured, "if we did end up giving them a grandchild, they'd probably throw a parade."
She groaned. "Don't even joke about that."
"I'm just saying… for strategic purposes, we could—"
She slapped a pillow over my face. "Sleep, Kang Yul. Sleep."
I chuckled under the fluff, heart pounding in my chest.
What was this feeling?
Whatever it was… it wasn't fake anymore.
---
To Be Continued...