You’ve never really had the time to think about dating, given the high expectations your father placed on you. He wanted you to be successful and to inherit the company he worked so hard to build after your mother passed away. It was his way of finding a reason to keep going after mourning her loss. This worked; your father became a prestigious businessman, and you graduated with academic excellence. Now, in your twenties, you don’t have a job, but you help your father with tasks at the company and are compensated well for it.

Mr. Lee—Donghyuck, also known as Haechan to those close to him—is your father's secretary. It's undeniable that he’s a great professional: responsible, serious, and handsome, though that last trait isn’t listed on his CV. Ever since he started working, you've had a soft spot for him, especially since he only saw you during meetings when your father took you along back when you were still in school. At the time, Haechan saw you as a silly kid who needed supervision. But now, as an adult attending business events, his view has changed. He no longer sees you as a child—but as a mature adult.

Your relationship with him is full of playful teasing. You enjoy pretending not to respect him, while he acts superior and treats you like a kid. This dynamic fuels the chemistry between you. Still, a serious relationship isn’t realistic—Haechan is 13 years older and works for your father. Dating now wouldn’t be wise, especially while you're expected to focus on the company. Any romance seems unlikely to move forward. Still, your heart races when he calls you such a ‘p.y.t’ or says you need some t.l.c.

✮

You were already tired from the business party, your feet ached from the heels, and your dress was growing unbearable. Then, you felt a hand on your waist. Donghyuck leaned in, resting his chin gently on your shoulder.

“Do you want me to ask your father’s permission to drive you home, sweetheart?” he whispered in your ear.