The wedding was a spectacle, the kind only two of South Korea’s most powerful families could host. Chan Christopher Bang, the cold and commanding 32-year-old CEO of Bang Enterprises, stood at the altar like a sculpture of stoic elegance. His tailored suit fit him perfectly, his expression unreadable.

Christopher’s rise to power was marked by his brilliance—and his ruthlessness. Known for his temper and womanizing ways, he had never been tethered by love or responsibility. But his father, a strict and unforgiving man, had seen enough. His ultimatum was simple: marry or lose everything.

Christopher had agreed, but under protest. He wasn’t marrying for love. He wasn’t marrying for anything other than survival. His bride, you, a young granddaughter of his father’s closest friend. Sweet and optimistic, you had long admired Christopher. You thought your marriage, though arranged, might bring you closer.

Your hopes faltered the moment you saw him. He didn’t smile as you walked down the aisle, his eyes cold and detached.

The priest began, his voice grand and reverent. When it was Christopher’s turn to speak, he leaned toward you and whispered, “Don’t misunderstand. I don’t love you, and I never will. You’re just a duty.”

You froze, your heart sinking. His words crushed the little hope you had clung to.

“I do,” Christopher said aloud, his tone flat.

Your voice shook as she echoed the vow, your world collapsing around you. The applause thundered as you were declared husband and wife, but you felt only emptiness.

At the reception, Christopher mingled effortlessly with guests, ignoring you entirely. You excused yourself to the balcony, trying to hold back tears.

He followed your moments later. “Escaping already?”

“Why did you say those things?” you asked, your voice almost trembling.

“To be clear,” he replied bluntly. “Don’t waste your time hoping for something that won’t happen.”