Hannam-dong – 8:30 AM
Han Yuri was about to leave. She wore a long, elegant black dress with a relaxed fit, paired with thin heels and a matching small handbag. Her hair was loose, carefully tousled for that perfectly natural yet sophisticated look.
But just as she was about to step out of the house, she froze when she spotted a suitcase in the middle of the living room. Curious, she walked toward it—when a familiar voice echoed behind her.
?? –
– It's been a while, unnie.
She spun around abruptly. A young woman stood there, dressed with impeccable elegance: a fitted, buttoned black knit top, a short skirt with golden buttons, sheer tights, chunky black boots, and a golden chain around her waist. A quilted black handbag hung casually from her arm. Her perfectly straightened hair cascaded over her shoulders like silk.
Han Yuri –
– Ye Reum?! When did you come back?
Han Ye Reum –
– What's this? Aren't you happy to see me?
Without waiting for an answer, Ye Reum stepped gracefully into the living room and sat down on the couch with her back straight.
Han Ye Reum –
– Aren't you glad to see me? I was so excited to come back... and this is how you greet me? That's sad.
She stood up with ease, turned her head slightly, and looked around the room.
Han Ye Reum –
– Where are Father and Mother? I missed them so much.
Yuri, arms crossed, looked at her calmly but distantly.
Han Yuri –
– Why did you come back? Got tired of partying abroad?
Han Ye Reum –
– I was bored over there. I'd rather be here, with my family.
Han Yuri –
– Since when have you been so... family-oriented?
Han Ye Reum – (with a faint smile)
– Always have been.
Her gaze landed on a family photo sitting on a small table. She walked toward it, stopped suddenly, and stared at the image with a serious look.
Han Ye Reum – (calm voice)
– Oh, by the way, I saw the news. Apparently, you killed someone… Kind of funny, isn't it? The perfect Han family daughter caught in some shady scandal.
She slowly turned to Yuri, a provocative smile on her lips, and picked up the photo.
Han Ye Reum –
– Woow… Was I really that pretty in this dress?
Yuri didn't get a chance to respond. Their stepmother entered the living room, surprised, before lighting up with a big smile.
Stepmother –
– Ye Reum?! When did you get back? Why didn't you let us know?
Han Ye Reum – (bright smile)
– Just now. It was meant to be a surprise.
The stepmother walked over and gently stroked her face.
Stepmother –
– You're so beautiful. We missed you so much. Your father will be so happy to see you again. We're all having dinner together tonight. I'll cook it myself.
While they were talking, Han Yuri watched silently. She looked calm, almost cold—but in her eyes, there was a hint of sadness.
She turned to leave quietly, but the stepmother noticed her.
Stepmother –
– Yuri-ah, were you going somewhere? Why not stay home today? It's been so long since we had a family dinner.
Han Yuri – (murmuring, without looking at her)
– Family… how funny.
Then, she turned her head slightly toward her.
Han Yuri –
– I need to check something with Min Hee today. I'm sorry, I have to go.
Han Ye Reum –
– Min Hee? Don't tell me you're still friends with that Kim Min Hee? Seriously, unnie… why are you still hanging out with her? That girl is—
Han Yuri – (cutting her off, calm tone)
– There you go again. Look, Ye Reum, I don't know what your problem is with her, but Min Hee is my best friend. So keep your opinion to yourself.
Without saying another word, she left the house.
30 minutes later – At the agency
Han Yuri was walking down the hallway. She stopped in front of a photo hanging on the wall. It was her, stunning, from a photoshoot: a long red dress with a train, a confident gaze, and the aura of a true star.
Han Yuri – (soft voice)
– You're beautiful, Han Yuri.
She resumed walking and entered the agency office. Kim Min Hee was sitting there, focused on her tablet. When she saw Yuri walk in, she looked up and smiled.
Kim Min Hee –
– Yuri-ah, you're here! I thought you weren't coming today.
Han Yuri –
– Where's the director?
Kim Min Hee –
– He's with some journalists for the press conference. Come sit down. Let's review the copy the lawyer sent me. I think it's pretty good… but if you want to add something…
She handed the tablet to Yuri.
Kim Min Hee –
– Here, check it.
Yuri calmly took the tablet and looked through it.
As they were focused, the door suddenly swung open. The director entered, out of breath.
Director –
– Min Hee! Look at this!
He turned to Yuri.
Director –
– Oh, Yuri, when did you arrive?
Han Yuri –
– A little while ago. But… why are you in such a state? Did something else come out?
The director quickly walked over to them, holding a tablet, clearly agitated.
Director – (breathless)
– Min Hee! Look at this.
Then he turned the tablet toward Yuri.
Director –
– Yuri, look at this. A picture of you is going viral on social media.
Han Yuri – (intrigued)
– What picture?
Director –
– A fan posted a picture of you… with a man. His face isn't clear, but yours is. People online think it's Lee Jae Hyun. Is that true?
Han Yuri – (calm voice)
– No, it's not him.
Kim Min Hee – (leaning toward the tablet)
– Yeah, that's not Jae Hyun oppa. Not even close.
Director – (frowning)
– Then who is it? Or… is it another edit?
Han Yuri –
– No, it's not edited.
Director – (more curious)
– Really? You're dating someone? Who is it?
Yuri stayed silent for a moment. Kim Min Hee and the director watched her, hanging on her words.
Han Yuri –
– It's Lee Tae Joon.
The director took a small step back, shocked, covering his mouth with one hand.
Director –
– Woow… Lee Tae Joon? The Lee Tae Joon? Son of Lee Tae Kwang? You two are dating?
Kim Min Hee – (with a playful smile)
– Really? So you've decided to see him again.
Director – (turning to Min Hee, surprised)
– You knew?! Ah… of course. You're friends.
Yuri glanced slightly at Min Hee, then answered calmly.
Han Yuri –
– Yes. I finally decided to give him a chance.
She met the director's gaze.
Han Yuri –
– It happened recently.
The director looked at the photo on his tablet again, wide-eyed.
Director –
– Woow… This is incredible. Anyway, everyone's talking about it. Looks like they've completely forgotten the other scandal.
(He looked up at Yuri with a relieved smile.)
– Usually, couple rumors are bad for us. But this time… it's almost a blessing.
Han Yuri – (calm, composed)
– By the way, when is the press conference?
Director –
– Ay… Things are starting to settle a bit. But yeah, the conference will be held tomorrow at 9 a.m. So prepare what you're going to say, alright?
Han Yuri nodded slightly, then turned to Kim Min Hee.
Han Yuri –
– Can you send me the copy of the speech? I need to add something.
Kim Min Hee –
– Alright.
She leaned over to grab her tablet from the table.
A few seconds later, Han Yuri received Min Hee's email. Instantly, her phone screen lit up:
"Incoming call – Lee Jae Hyun"
Kim Min Hee, leaning right beside her, caught the name flashing on the screen.
Kim Min Hee –
– It's Jae Hyun oppa, looks like.
Han Yuri answered calmly.
Han Yuri (on the phone) –
– Hello? Jae Hyun oppa? What's going on?
Lee Jae Hyun's voice –
– Can we meet?
Han Yuri hesitated a moment.
Han Yuri –
– Okay… Where?
Lee Jae Hyun –
– Come to my place.
Han Yuri –
– Alright.
She gently hung up.
Kim Min Hee –
– So… what did he say?
Han Yuri –
– He wants to talk to me about something.
Without waiting, Min Hee already started packing her things, a mischievous smile on her face.
Kim Min Hee –
– Want me to come with you?
(already excited)
This is going to be fun, it's been so long since we all hung out together… A little festa, like the old days.
Han Yuri gently stopped her with a gesture.
Han Yuri –
– Min Hee… I think now's not the right time.
Kim Min Hee –
– Hmm… you're right. No festa for today.
(then softer)
But it's still going to be nice for you two to catch up a little.
Han Yuri –
– I mean… I'll go alone this time. Maybe after the press conference, we can have a little evening like we used to. You understand?
Kim Min Hee –
– Alright. I get it…
(a softer smile, a bit disappointed)
I still have a bunch of things to do anyway.
Han Yuri –
– Okay. I'll leave you then.
A few minutes later – Nine One Hannam, Seoul
Han Yuri's black car stopped in front of the discreet yet elegant entrance of the Nine One Hannam complex.
A security guard in a dark suit immediately approached, recognizing the car's license plate.
Without her needing to say a word, he gave a small bow and opened the gate.
The calm, almost solemn atmosphere was a stark contrast to the bustle of the agency she had just left.
She stepped out, her heels softly clicking against the light stone pavement.
The entrance hall was spacious, quiet, and bathed in natural light. Modern artworks adorned the walls. A subtle fragrance floated in the air—a delicate blend of rare woods and white flowers.
She crossed the marble floor, greeted by a discreet "Good morning, Miss Han" from the front desk staff, and took the private elevator. A soft tone announced the floor—top floor, penthouse.
In front of Lee Jae Hyun's private penthouse door, she paused for a moment. Her finger hovered before tapping the touchpad.
Clack. Clack. Clack. Clack.
Four digits. The same code he'd always used.
A habit between them—a kind of silent trust.
Beep.
A click echoed. The door opened automatically, revealing the bright and spacious interior of the penthouse.
She stepped in quietly, closing the door behind her. The atmosphere inside was calm.
Han Yuri entered the apartment and scanned the room.
No one in sight.
A slight frown formed.
Han Yuri –
– Jae Hyun oppa? … Oppa?
A few seconds later, Lee Jae Hyun came out of a room, dressed in a white shirt slightly unbuttoned and relaxed black pants.
Lee Jae Hyun –
– Oh, you're here. Have you been waiting long?
He approached her with a slight smile.
Han Yuri –
– No, I just arrived.
Lee Jae Hyun –
– Alright. Want something to drink?
He casually walked toward the kitchen.
Han Yuri –
– Just a coffee, please.
She watched him for a moment, then sat on one of the counter stools.
Silence fell between them—a bit heavy, a bit awkward.
Then…
Han Yuri –
– Why did you call me? Did you have something to say?
Lee Jae Hyun (without turning to her) –
– I saw the rumor.
Since it's not me in the picture, I wondered who it was.
I also thought maybe it was photoshopped.
Han Yuri (calm) –
– It's not edited. That's really me… with Lee Tae Joon.
Lee Tae Kwang's son. My father's friend's son.
Lee Jae Hyun (intrigued) –
– Really? And… what were you talking about?
Han Yuri –
– Aren't you going to ask if the rumor is true?
Lee Jae Hyun –
– It's not your first dating rumor.
And you know how fans are… As soon as they see two celebs together, they start imagining things.
Han Yuri –
– You're right.
But this time, they got it right.
Lee Jae Hyun (turning around, surprised) –
– What do you mean?
Han Yuri –
– Lee Tae Joon and I… we're dating.
We're even planning to get married.
Lee Jae Hyun (visibly shocked, trying to stay calm) –
– … Really?
And how come I didn't know about this?
Han Yuri –
– Why should I tell you everything about my life?
Lee Jae Hyun –
– Yuri…
After everything that's happened, are you sure you want to stir up another scandal?
Han Yuri –
– That's my business.
I've never questioned you about your relationships.
Lee Jae Hyun –
– I'm just saying this for your own good. I'm just… worried.
Han Yuri –
– I know.
And I'm sorry if this seems sudden.
But it's not up to you to decide what's right for me.
Thank you for worrying… but I'm not a child anymore.
Lee Jae Hyun stared at her for a moment in silence, then handed her the cup of coffee he'd just made.
Lee Jae Hyun –
– Alright. If you're sure about this…
I just want you to be happy.
Here… Drink this before it gets cold.
That same evening – Han Residence
Han Yuri closed the front door behind her.
As she walked through the hallway, her gaze lingered on the living room.
The whole family was gathered around the large dining table.
Soft laughter, clinking glasses, steaming dishes.
Then, silence.
All eyes turned to her.
The father –
– Come sit down, Yuri.
Without a word, she slowly approached and took a seat at the table.
A maid quickly brought her a plate, utensils, and quietly stepped away.
A few heavy seconds passed. Then…
Han Ye Reum –
– So, when are you holding your press conference?
Han Yuri (detached) –
– … The conference will be tomorrow.
Han Ye Reum (smirking) –
– Ahh… it's going to make headlines again.
But enough with the sad stuff! I brought gifts!
Stepmother (surprised, smiling) –
– Really? Oh, you didn't have to.
Han Ye Reum gestured to one of the maids.
Han Ye Reum –
– For my dear father…
For my sweet mother…
And this one… for my beloved sister.
She held the last package out toward Han Yuri.
But Han Yuri slowly stood up, not even glancing at the gift.
Han Yuri –
– I'm tired.
I have a long day tomorrow. Excuse me.
And she left the dining room without another word.
Han Ye Reum (still smiling, speaking to a housekeeper) –
– Excuse me… Could you bring that one to my sister's room?
Housekeeper –
– Yes, miss.
The next morning – 8:40 AM
Day of the press conference
At the agency, Han Yuri was finishing getting ready. Kim Min Hee helped her adjust the final details.
Min Hee –
– You look stunning. That white suit gives you a powerful look… and a bit dangerous too.
Han Yuri (faint smile) –
– Maybe that's what's needed today. To show the world I'm not weak.
Min Hee –
– Are you ready?
Han Yuri –
– Yes. Let's go.
Conference Room – 9:00 AM
The reporters stirred as Han Yuri entered. Flashs exploded like lightning.
She stepped confidently onto the stage, accompanied by her lawyer.
Han Yuri –
– Hello everyone. I'm Han Yuri.
I'm here today to clarify the rumors that someone has recently been spreading about me.
First of all, I apologize for the delay in holding this conference. We preferred to wait until we had concrete evidence, so that these rumors could be put to rest once and for all.
My lawyer, here with me today, will present the materials proving that I was in no way involved in this accident.
Journalist –
– Miss Han Yuri, why do you think someone would spread such a rumor?
Attorney Jung –
– If I may…
Since the beginning of her career, Han Yuri has been the target of countless unfounded rumors. This is neither the first nor the last.
But this time, we will not let it slide. These attacks do not only harm her image, but also gravely affect her mental health.
From now on, we will take legal action against anyone spreading false or unverified information about her.
I would like to clarify that neighborhood surveillance footage has been reviewed, and no suspicious behavior was recorded.
The photo that was shared is in fact a doctored image, as proven by the technical analysis we are providing today.
I assure you: this rumor is completely baseless, started by malicious individuals.
My client, here today, is also fully prepared to cooperate with the authorities so that the truth can be established as quickly as possible.
Journalist –
– Miss Han Yuri, what evidence do you have to refute this rumor?
Han Yuri –
– My lawyer will present it to you. You may also take photos of the documents.
I want to clarify that I was indeed out the night the accident allegedly occurred. I was attending a birthday party—my friend Kim Min Hee's party—and I stayed at her place that night. She can confirm my statement if needed.
Journalist –
– Miss Kim Min Hee, can you confirm this?
Kim Min Hee –
– Yes, I confirm. I was 17 at the time. We had organized a small party with friends, and Yuri did stay over because it was too late to return home.
Journalist –
Miss Han Yuri, you recently went viral because a fan saw you with an unidentified man. She took a picture and posted it online.
Some fans assumed it was actor Lee Jae Hyun, one of your close friends, who has already been the subject of dating rumors with you. Can you tell us more?
Han Yuri –
Yes, the photo is of me, but no, it wasn't Jae Hyun oppa.
I've recently met someone with whom I feel comfortable, and we've decided to pursue this relationship more seriously.
I want to confirm the rumor today to avoid any future confusion.
Journalist –
Do you think this is the right time, considering you're involved in such a serious scandal linked to a murder case?
Han Yuri –
On the contrary. I think it's the perfect time.
I need emotional support to get through this, and what better support than from someone whose company I enjoy?
Journalist –
Can you tell us the name of the person who managed to win over "the Nation's Desire"?
Han Yuri –
I can't reveal it for now, to protect his safety.
But once the case calms down, I promise, I will tell you.
Director –
That's all for today. Please wait for the results of the police investigation and stop spreading baseless rumors about our artist.
We are sincerely sorry for worrying Han Yuri's fans, and we thank you in advance for refraining from hateful comments.
This kind of behavior will no longer be tolerated.
You may continue to take photos of the evidence provided, but Miss Han Yuri is very tired and still struggling with all this.
We sincerely apologize to the fans for the worry caused, and we thank them for their patience and support.
Han Yuri –
Thank you very much for coming today.
Journalist –
Miss Han Yuri! Just one last question, please!
Kim Min Hee –
Please, the press conference is over. We'll keep you informed if there are any updates.
End of the press conference.
Kim Min Hee (sits down, visibly exhausted) –
– Phew… I'm exhausted. These reporters, seriously… We already told them everything! What more do they want?
I think someone even ripped out a lock of my hair…
Anyway, let's check out the online reactions.
Director –
– Yeah, good idea.
Fan comments –
– "I support you, eonnie. I never believed that rumor."
Director –
– Okay, that's a good start.
– "Witch, murderer! You think a press conference will change anything?"
Kim Min Hee –
– Wow… that's harsh.
– "You're playing the victim, but the real victims are the family of the one you killed."
– "Eonnie, stay strong. We, your real fans, will always support you."
– "You're still as beautiful as ever, eonnie, but you've lost a lot of weight. Please take care of yourself, eat well, get some rest."
Min Hee –
– Oh, that's so sweet. I'm giving that one a like.
– "Eonnie, who's that man? He must be really handsome. Fighting!"
– "I really hope you marry him. You're right—you need support."
– "All celebrities are the same, always playing the victim."
– "I'll wait for the final verdict to make my opinion, but I'm happy for you."
– "Congratulations on your relationship, eonnie!"
– "Introduce us to your boyfriend!"
Director –
– Well, it's still better than the previous comments. But I feel like people are more interested in your love life than the scandal…
Kim Min Hee –
– Obviously! Yuri has never confirmed a relationship before. People are nosy like that.
But by the way… why didn't you reveal your boyfriend's identity?
Han Yuri –
– That wouldn't be fair. I didn't even warn him I'd be announcing our relationship.
I need to talk to him first, see if he's okay with it.
Han Yuri –
– Actually… I'm going to see him now.
Director –
– Alright.
She leaves the room.
In the hallway, she walks slowly, but suddenly stops and leans against the wall.
A wave of nausea hits. She rushes into the restroom.
In the bathroom, Yuri vomits into the toilet.
She slowly straightens up, washes her hands, then lifts her gaze to the mirror.
Her hands tremble.
Han Yuri (to herself, in a low voice) –
– You did the right thing… You did the right thing, Han Yuri…
She pulls out her phone, her fingers shaking.
She dials a number, nervously biting her thumb nail.
Finally, someone answers.
Han Yuri (nervously) –
– Hello? Why are you only answering now?
Are you sure you erased all the surveillance footage?
I'm warning you… if you dare mess with me, I won't let it slide.
My entire career depends on that video.
A stranger's voice responds on the other end.
Han Yuri (colder) –
– Alright. I'll send the money. And don't ever call me again.
She hangs up, takes a deep breath, and closes her eyes for a moment.
She tries to calm herself.
A few minutes later, she walks toward her car.
The driver rushes to open the door for her.
She gets in, pulls out her phone again, and dials another number.
Call in progress…
Han Yuri –
– Hello? This is Han Yuri. Can we meet?
Lee Tae Joon (calmly) –
– Of course. You can come to my place.
Han Yuri –
– Please send me the address.
A few minutes later – Seongbuk-dong neighborhood
Han Yuri's black car stops in front of an ultra-modern villa, tucked away in a calm, tree-lined alley.
Tall walls surround the property, partially hiding a gorgeous garden filled with pruned bamboo and red maples.
Yuri steps slowly out of the car,
then walks toward the gate and presses a small silver button.
A discreet screen lights up, revealing Lee Tae Joon's face.
Lee Tae Joon (deep voice, slightly amused) –
– One moment, I'm coming to open.
Lee Tae Joon opens the gate. No words are exchanged. Just a glance.
They both walk into the villa, in soft silence.
The hallway leads to a spacious living room.
Han Yuri (looking around) –
– Beautiful house… Do you live alone?
Lee Tae Joon (closing the door) –
– Yes. Want something? Tea? Coffee? Beer?
Han Yuri –
– No, I'm fine, thank you.
I'd really like to live alone too.
Lee Tae Joon (with a slight smile) –
– You've got money, don't you? Why are you still living with your parents?
Han Yuri –
– I don't like eating alone.
Lee Tae Joon –
– That's your reason?
Han Yuri –
– How old were you when you moved out?
Lee Tae Joon (sits down casually on the couch) –
– Twenty.
And you? How old were you when you realized you didn't like eating alone?
Han Yuri (sits across from him, more serious) –
– Since my mother died.
I was young. My father worked all the time, so it was usually just her and me at the table.
But when she was gone… I had to eat alone.
(Tae Joon lowers his gaze. A shadow passes over him.)
Lee Tae Joon –
– I see…
But why did you want to see me? Is it about the press conference?
Han Yuri –
– You watched it?
Lee Tae Joon –
Yes. It's very popular.
Apparently, you're dating someone.
Han Yuri –
– I wanted to talk seriously…
About us.
I know we don't have a real relationship, but our fathers arranged this match, looking ahead to marriage.
I wanted to know your thoughts.
Lee Tae Joon (gives her a frank look) –
– Han Yuri-ssi…
I must say, I'm very impressed by you. You're beautiful, popular, and smart.
And I must admit, your plan is… brilliant.
Han Yuri (intrigued) –
– What plan?
Lee Tae Joon (soft smile) –
– Replacing one rumor… with another.
It's pretty clever.
To be continued…