Chapter 1.4: Jun Lee, The Substitute Fiancée

                                    

                                          
Inside a spacious room on the topmost floor of a tall office building, Liam sat behind his desk, deep in thought.
Over the last few years, his team of experts had made a significant technological breakthrough, and he invested a majority of his time and resources into it. If he succeeded, his company would undoubtedly dominate the industry and possibly expand into a multinational corporation. And yet, just as he was about to do a product launch, during this critical juncture, several mishaps occurred, forcing him to delay the launch date.
Each time he took care of a mess, a new one would crop up. This problem went on for many months, testing his already thin patience. In addition, as his mother's health worsened, aside from making wedding arrangements, he had no time to spare. Not for his friends, and not even for his fiancée.
Liam was engrossed in reading his files when the fragrant scent of coffee broke his concentration. Lifting his gaze, he noticed it was Mei who had set the warm cup of coffee in front of him. He didn't know when his secretary allowed her in, but he didn't mind. With a smile, he rubbed his sore neck. It's about time he took a break.
Picking up the cup, Liam savoured the warmth of the liquid with each sip. As he drank, his stern eyes unconsciously softened when he felt a comforting warmth surged through his body. Little did he realise that a cup of coffee was all he needed to make him feel relaxed.
"Even now, you remember I enjoy having coffee with sweet cream when I feel tired." Liam smiled warmly.
"Yeah..." Mei nodded, feeling her heart skip a beat when she met his familiar, gentle gaze. "You've been pushing yourself too hard in the recent weeks and I'm worried about you."
"..."
Noticing the atmosphere suddenly turned awkward, Mei quickly changed the subject. "A-As a friend! I'm just glad I could help you out as a friend..."
Liam put down his cup and stared at Mei without saying a word. After a long, uncomfortable silence, he sighed.
"Mei, I'm engaged now. We can only stay as friends."
Mei was taken aback, and then sadness filled her eyes. Hearing rumours in the company about Liam's engagement with another woman has been really painful for her. She didn't want to accept the truth until she heard it from Liam himself. And now, she couldn't deny it. He was no longer the man who belonged to her anymore.
Just as Mei tried to turn away, a firm hand gripped her arm. As he pulled her close, he tenderly wiped away the tears streaming down her face. He whispered, "...Why would you be this upset? You're the one who chose to leave me back then."
Mei blushed, her cheeks tingling from the familiar sensation of his fingers. Right now, the ambiguity between them was tempting her to move closer to him. She took hold of his hand, placed it against her cheek, and gave him a loving yet sad smile.
"I know... that's why I'm not asking for your forgiveness." Mei uttered softly, her voice filled with longing. "But I'm sorry. The truth is, I still love you. I love you so much that I can't help but feel jealous. I genuinely want to wish you happiness, but I can't."
When Liam saw Mei's heartbreaking, remorseful expression, his heart wavered, having second doubts about his feelings. Despite being separated for a long time, he couldn't help but be drawn towards her, noticing all her changes. Not only did she improve herself, she also became more beautiful, diligent, self-assured, and capable.
Such an incredible woman was now yearning for his affection... If her family hadn't come between them, how much more intimate would their relationship be by now?
Perhaps by this time, they would have been happily married and had a few children.
But it's too late.