Side Story 2.1

On a fully blossomed spring day, Yoon-jae and Baek-geon finally got married.

The wedding ceremony wasn’t held in an elaborate manner. Yoon-jae preferred it to be quiet, and Baek-geon, who was willing to do anything she asked, didn’t object.

In the end, the wedding was kept simple, with only close acquaintances invited for a meal. Instead, the couple decided to enjoy a three-day domestic honeymoon.

The day before the ceremony, the two visited Chairman Han, who was currently incarcerated. It was Baek-geon’s decision, and Butler Song had also recommended it.

“If the Chairman sees the two of you living happily, it will surely bring him joy.”

Butler Song volunteered to drive and accompanied them on the visit. He seemed genuinely delighted, smiling broadly and continuously offering words of blessing.

“I hope the Chairman can be released before Yoo-na grows any older.”

To this, Baek-geon replied nonchalantly, 

“We’ll just bring her along next time.”

“No, no, you mustn’t. It’s not a good idea for young children to visit such places. The Madam might be shocked.”

Butler Song turned to Yoon-jae with an apologetic expression. 

“I’m terribly sorry, Madam. I spoke out of turn.”

“It’s fine. The CEO here seems a bit excited today. I’m okay with it.”

Yoon-jae smiled faintly and cast a playful glance at her husband. Baek-geon shrugged his shoulders casually, as if unfazed.

“We’ve arrived.”

After traveling down a desolate road, they stopped in front of a dreary building. Following several procedures, Yoon-jae was finally able to meet Chairman Han, Baek-geon’s adoptive father and guardian.

Despite his hardships, Chairman Han appeared remarkably robust. His sharp gaze, visible through the wrinkles around his eyes, was so intense it was almost intimidating.

Given that he had raised Baek-geon, it wasn’t surprising, but meeting him in person left a significant impression. Yoon-jae instinctively lowered her gaze.

“Have you been well?”

“Well, what could possibly happen to me? It’s actually more peaceful in here since I’m unaware of anything happening outside. It’s you folks out there who must be having a hard time.”

Baek-geon and Butler Song exchanged calm greetings with Chairman Han. As soon as the pleasantries ended, the elderly man’s curious eyes turned to Yoon-jae, who stood quietly behind them.

“This is my wife.”

Baek-geon turned around, placing his hand gently on Yoon-jae’s waist and guiding her forward. Nervous, Yoon-jae hesitated briefly before bowing politely.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you. My name is So Yoon-jae.”

“Hoho, so you’re our new daughter-in-law.”

Contrary to his piercing gaze, Chairman Han’s tone was warm and friendly. He looked at Yoon-jae through the glass window with genuine delight.

“It seems our Baek-geon has found himself a fine partner. You’re lovely and graceful.”

Caught off guard by the sudden compliments, Yoon-jae lowered her head shyly. Butler Song, beaming with satisfaction, chimed in.

“It must be because you have such discerning taste that the CEO has inherited it, Chairman.”

“It’s not because of me; he’s grown into a fine man on his own. I didn’t teach him anything about choosing women or anything else, yet he’s done well for himself.”

Looking at Baek-geon with pride, Chairman Han then turned his attention back to Yoon-jae. Smiling, he left her with a few words of advice.

“You mentioned Yoo-na, didn’t you? I received the baby’s photos well. While I can’t ask you to visit often, do send updates occasionally and take good care of yourselves.”

“You’re aware the appeal process is still ongoing, right? I’ll do everything I can to ensure your early release.”

Baek-geon spoke resolutely. Chairman Han simply smiled and nodded in acknowledgment.

The walk back after the visit felt heavy. Regardless of the circumstances, it was impossible not to feel emotional about the man who had raised Baek-geon.

Yoon-jae placed a comforting hand on Baek-geon’s back, as if to encourage him. Baek-geon looked at her silently for a moment before turning his head.

As Baek-geon wrapped an arm around her waist, Yoon-jae turned her head as well. Her gaze met that of the man looking down at her.

Without a word, the two stared at each other before resuming their walk. This time, they matched their steps and walked side by side.

*

The wedding ceremony was held quietly. Although they compromised by renting a banquet hall at a hotel for a meal, Baek-geon made every effort to ensure that Yoon-jae wouldn’t feel disappointed.

Perhaps because of this, the banquet hall was decorated as lavishly as any other wedding. Flowers cascaded from the high ceiling, and vases filled with blossoms swayed gently under the soft lighting.

Dressed in a cream-colored two-piece outfit with her hair neatly styled, Yoon-jae looked both elegant and beautiful. She perfectly complemented Baek-geon, who was dressed in a dark suit.

Around her neck, she wore a diamond necklace that sparkled brilliantly. It was a gift from Baek-geon, who had personally fastened it around her neck before they entered together.

“This is your wedding gift.”

Though his words were brief, Yoon-jae could sense how much Baek-geon cherished her. Despite his reserved nature, he was someone who cared deeply for the people around him.

It still felt surreal that such a man had confessed his love for her. Unconsciously, she reached up to touch the necklace.

The cool sensation of the jewels helped calm her nerves. Despite her efforts to remain composed, her heart was racing.

Following Baek-geon’s lead, she made her way to the entrance of the hall. Cheong-o and Jung-gyun, who had arrived early to wait for them, greeted them with polite bows.

“Hyung, Sister-in-law, you’ve arrived.”

Yoon-jae’s gaze naturally drifted toward Cheong-o. At that moment, Baek-geon stepped half a pace forward, partially blocking her view.

Cheong-o’s expression briefly showed discomfort before he quickly masked it.

“Well, I wanted to greet sister-in-law properly.”

Even as he listened, Baek-geon remained unmoved. This left Jung-gyun in an awkward position. Looking between Cheong-o and Baek-geon, he eventually turned to Yoon-jae with a helpless expression.

Realizing this wouldn’t do, Yoon-jae stepped forward. Sliding her arm through Baek-geon’s, she leaned her head slightly to the side as if seeking support.

“I’d like to greet Cheong-o Oppa. You know how kind he’s been to me.”

“There’s no need for greetings when you’ll be seeing him for the rest of your life.”

Baek-geon’s voice was low and carried a hint of threat. However, Yoon-jae, undeterred, gently coaxed him.

“That’s exactly why I should greet him properly. If it weren’t for him, I might not even be alive.”

At her words, Baek-geon’s expression darkened. Yoon-jae’s statement was undeniably true, leaving him unable to argue.

“It’s important to express gratitude when it’s due. That’s how sincerity is shown.”

With just a few words, Yoon-jae managed to silence Baek-geon. Smiling brightly, she stepped forward to greet Cheong-o.

“I’ve been meaning to thank you, but I haven’t had the chance. I’m sorry, Oppa.”

“Oh, no, no! It’s nothing! I didn’t do anything…”

Cheong-o stammered, switching to a more formal tone mid-sentence. Standing beside him, Jung-gyun nonchalantly jabbed his side and added casually.

“Exactly. It’s all thanks to Hyung’s generosity and kindness. Cheong-o here didn’t do much of anything, Sister-in-law.”

“Ah, that’s correct, Sister-in-law. Hyung handled everything.”

Cheong-o quickly aligned with Jung-gyun’s words, stealing a glance at Baek-geon for approval. Yoon-jae smiled faintly.

“Still, it’s true that you tried to help me, Cheong-o Oppa. I wanted to thank you at least once. Truly, thank you, Oppa.”

“Oh, no, I didn’t do anything… If anything, I should be thanking you.”

Cheong-o spoke with an awkward expression.

“Thank you for living so diligently despite the hardships, and also for making our Hyung happy.”

His words caused Yoon-jae’s eyes to glisten with emotion. Cheong-o, too, pursed his lips, his expression tinged with sentiment.

Baek-geon’s eyes narrowed. He glared at Cheong-o for a long moment before speaking curtly.

“Make sure to properly attend to the guests today. If anything happens, you’ll regret it.”

“Yes, I’ll keep that in mind!”

Jung-gyun answered quickly, dragging Cheong-o away. Watching the two disappear to the side, Baek-geon turned to Yoon-jae, his lips curling slightly.

“Is getting sentimental all you’re going to do on such a good day?”

“Well, it is a good day.”

Yoon-jae looked at him warmly, a gentle smile on her face.

“That’s why I can say ‘thank you’ as much as I want.”

Her words and smile softened Baek-geon’s expression. Embarrassed by how stern he had looked moments ago, he pressed his lips together firmly.

“That’s why I told you not to talk to just anyone or smile at them. It irritates me for no reason.”

“Are you saying it’s my fault?”

Yoon-jae laughed as she countered, leaving Baek-geon at a loss for words. Still, he stubbornly repeated himself like a child.

“Even if it’s not your fault, situations that can be misunderstood might arise.”

Seeing Baek-geon act so childishly was both amusing and surprising. It was a side of him she had never seen before. Yoon-jae studied him quietly before bursting into laughter again.

“Don’t tell me… Are you jealous?”