Scene 1: The Unexpected Rescue
[Location: Seoul University Cafeteria, 12:30 PM. So Hye is having lunch.]
So Hye sat opposite her friend, Jieun, but her mind was miles away, specifically tracing the gentle curve of Park Hyun Soo's smile. The previous day's encounter had left a peculiar warmth in her chest, a feeling she hadn't known she was missing. Jin, her ever-present, silent guardian, seemed suddenly distant compared to the immediate, engaging attention of the Business Administration senior.
"So Hye, are you even listening?" Jieun asked, poking her. "You haven't touched your Jeyuk Bokkeum."
"Huh? Oh, yes, of course," So Hye mumbled, focusing back on her plate, trying to dismiss the curly-haired image lingering in her thoughts.
Suddenly, the bustling noise of the crowded cafeteria intensified. A server, maneuvering a heavy tray loaded with dishes, slipped on a wet patch near their table. Time seemed to slow down. A large, steaming bowl of hot Kimchi Jjigae (stew) tilted precariously, aimed directly at So Hye's face and chest.
SO HYE (Internal Monologue): Oh no! It's going to scald me!
Just as the stew began its descent, a figure moved with lightning speed. A strong, decisive hand clamped around So Hye's shoulder, pulling her sharply backward and spinning her out of the trajectory of the spill. The Kimchi Jjigae splattered harmlessly onto the tile floor with a loud crash.
So Hye found herself pressed securely against a warm, muscled chest. She looked up, startled, her heart hammering against her ribs. It was Park Hyun Soo. He hadn't just appeared; he had reacted with the speed and decisiveness of a trained professional.
PARK HYUN SOO: (His voice laced with genuine concern, his eyes scanning her face) Are you alright, So Hye? Did you get hit?
SO HYE: (Gasping, the shock making her stutter) I—I'm fine. You saved me. Thank you, Hyun Soo Sunbaenim.
He didn't release her immediately. He maintained the protective hold, his presence radiating competence and safety. This was not the nervous, overprotective control of Jin; this felt like an effortless act of heroism. The entire cafeteria was silent, watching them.
HYUN SOO: (Smiling, a bright, captivating grin that felt utterly heroic) It was nothing. But you must be more careful. You were so deep in thought, I worried you wouldn't notice. (His gaze held hers, establishing a sudden, potent romantic suspense.)
He gently guided her back to her seat, his movement smooth and commanding. He then calmly addressed the flustered server and the manager who rushed over, taking charge of the entire chaotic scene with the polished ease of someone accustomed to authority.
SO HYE (Internal Monologue): He's amazing. He's so confident and kind. Jin never does things like this in front of people. Jin just drives the car.
Hyun Soo stayed until the mess was cleared, ensuring So Hye was completely calm before excusing himself. He left her with a casual, "See you around, So Hye-yah." She was glowing. The real hero had arrived.
Scene 2: The Onset of Jealousy
[Location: Outside the University Gate, Fashion District. 6:00 PM. Jin is supposed to pick her up.]
So Hye exited the campus gates later that evening, still basking in the glow of her rescue. She walked toward the spot where Jin's black, imposing sedan always waited. She expected his familiar, slightly grumpy greeting.
But the scene that unfolded stopped her dead in her tracks, washing away the heroic warmth of Hyun Soo and replacing it with a cold, sharp feeling.
Jin's car was there, but standing beside the driver's door was an incredibly stunning, chic woman. She was impeccably dressed in high-end designer clothes, carrying a recognizable luxury handbag. Everything about her screamed 'polished sophistication,' a stark contrast to So Hye's student attire.
SO HYE (Internal Monologue): Who is that? Why is she waiting for Jin?
So Hye ducked behind a pillar to observe, an overwhelming sense of foreboding settling in her stomach. The woman laughed charmingly at something Jin said. Then, she leaned in and pressed a light, intimate kiss onto Jin's cheek. Jin, looking busy and utterly preoccupied, quickly ushered her into the passenger seat and drove off without even glancing toward the gate—the gate where he always waited for So Hye.
SO HYE (Internal Monologue): He left. He drove away with her. Who was that? His girlfriend? He forgot about me.
A sharp, unfamiliar pang of jealousy and abandonment hit her. Her ever-reliable protector had been claimed by someone else, someone seemingly more deserving of his attention. She felt utterly alone.
Just then, a hand settled gently on her shoulder.
PARK HYUN SOO: (His voice warm and comforting) Why are you standing here, So Hye? Did someone forget you?
So Hye turned, her eyes glistening slightly. The look of distress on her face was instantly recognized by Hyun Soo.
SO HYUN: (Quietly) Yes. He... he was busy.
HYUN SOO: (A triumphant, knowing smile playing on his lips, solidifying his role as the alternative protector) Good. Because I'm here. You can't be left alone, not after this morning. Shall I take you home? I just got my new Ferrari Portofino out today. You'll love the drive.