The Next Morning — Nicole's POV
Nicole jolted awake to the shrill ringing of her phone.
She groaned, rolling onto her side, eyes barely open as she squinted at the screen.
10:05 a.m.
"Great," she muttered.
She stretched with a long sigh, then swung her legs over the side of the bed, slipping into her fuzzy slippers. Still half-asleep, she shuffled into the kitchen and poured herself a fresh cup of coffee.
That's when she noticed the note on the counter.
Her lips curved into a smile as she picked it up.
Sorry I couldn't be here this morning to send you off on your lunch date in style. But as the amazing friend I am, I laid out an outfit and accessories for you.
Go in with a clear head. Don't be nervous. And don't turn him down right away—take time to think it over.
I'll see you after work. You've got this.
Nicole shook her head fondly.
"She always knows exactly what to say," she murmured.
Ash had been her best friend since high school—the kind who showed up unannounced, defended her without hesitation, and somehow always knew when Nicole was about to spiral. They'd fought, cried, laughed, grown—but Ash had never once let her face anything alone.
Feeling lighter, Nicole gathered the outfit Ash had laid out just as her phone buzzed again.
Twice.
Her smile faded.
One message from Gu Sean.
I'll meet you at Gourmet Grove Kitchen. We have a reservation at 1.
Her heart fluttered unexpectedly.
Why am I nervous? she wondered, annoyed at herself.
She typed back a simple Okay, see you there, then hesitated before opening the second notification.
Her dad.
Actually—several messages.
Her brows furrowed as she read.
Why hasn't the rent been paid?
Where are you staying?
You need to come to family dinner in two weeks.
If you don't bring someone, I'll arrange a meeting with my colleague's son.
Nicole scoffed, tossing the phone onto the bed.
"Unbelievable."
No concern. No apology. Just control.
She exhaled sharply and pushed the messages from her mind as she headed into the bathroom.
⸻
She kept her makeup soft and natural—light foundation, subtle blush, a touch of gloss. Her hair was styled into a sultry updo, loose curls framing her face and brushing against her dimples whenever she moved.
Ash had chosen well.
The outfit hugged her perfectly: a light pink corset top paired with a crisp white pencil skirt that accentuated her curves without screaming for attention. A gold butterfly necklace with a soft pink stone rested against her collarbone, matching her bracelet and small hoop earrings. She finished the look with a pale pink purse and brand-new white heels with light pink soles.
Nicole studied herself in the mirror.
Ash really does know me.
Still, doubt flickered.
I hope this doesn't give the wrong impression.
Straightening her shoulders, she slipped on her heels and headed out, catching a cab to Gourmet Grove Kitchen.
As the restaurant came into view, her nerves returned full force.
She took a deep breath.
"You can do this," she whispered.
⸻
The host greeted her warmly and led her down a softly lit hallway. Elegant décor surrounded her—gold accents, warm wood tones, subtle jazz humming through the air. Her heart pounded as they approached the VIP room.
Am I underdressed?
Overdressed?
The door opened.
Nicole paused for just a moment, thoughts of her father flashing through her mind—his expectations, his disappointment, the way he always favored her brother.
This marriage…
Maybe this is my chance to prove I'm not helpless.
That I don't need anyone's approval.
She straightened, determination settling in her chest.
The moment she stepped inside, she spoke—too fast, too boldly.
"Fine. Let's do it. Let's get married."
Gu Sean looked up from the menu, clearly caught off guard.
Silence filled the room.
Then—slowly—a smile curved across his lips.
A dangerous one.
They stared at each other, tension thick enough to cut. Something unspoken passed between them—challenge, curiosity, something deeper neither was ready to admit.
Gu Sean set the menu down carefully.
"Well," he said calmly, eyes never leaving hers,
"this just became far more interesting than I expected."
Nicole swallowed.