7MoH 4.6
by SpringlilaSide Story 4. Loophole
The first semester as Harvard’s official freshman couple ended safely. In that time, short yet somehow also long, many things happened.
The most exciting moment was undoubtedly ‘The Game.’ At the traditional football match between Harvard and Yale held on the third Saturday of November, Chase made the roster as the starting quarterback.
Throughout the game, he delivered impressive plays that were impossible to look away from, ultimately leading his team to victory.
Jeong-in wore his jersey with number 12 and had ’12’ painted on both cheeks as he cheered enthusiastically. That day, he screamed until his voice went hoarse and clapped until his hands nearly numb, not caring about the stares around him. Of course, Justin was by his side too.
After the game, the coach approached with expectant eyes, subtly trying to persuade Chase to play in the next game, but Chase firmly declined.
Soon after came final exam preparations. They spent busy days going between the library, dormitory, and Chase’s condo, barely having a moment to breathe.
Because Jeong-in’s grades turned out better than expected, there was no need to worry about his scholarship. Chase also seemed more accustomed to the studious atmosphere surrounded by nerds. His attitude appeared more relaxed, and a calm stability seeped into their gradually adapting daily life. Chase becoming an honorary member of the Korean Student Association was also among the important events.
And now, they were heading back to Bellacove for Christmas.
Logan Airport was already filled with holiday spirit. The departure gate was crowded with people, everyone moving busily with their luggage of various sizes. Through the windows, Boston’s sky hung heavily overcast, while the Christmas decorations dangling from the airport ceiling caught the dim lights and twinkled faintly.
Fortunately, they boarded the plane without delay, and soon the flight attendant’s announcement came through.
“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome aboard. This flight is departing from Boston Logan International Airport and heading to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Before takeoff, please set all electronic devices to airplane mode…”
Though it was a domestic flight, the journey stretched six and a half hours. Chase watched a movie and then tried to sleep with an eye mask on. Meanwhile, Jeong-in couldn’t contain his excitement, alternating between reading a book he had bought at the airport shop and gazing out the window.
And finally.
Through the airplane window, Bellacove’s familiar coastline came into view. It had only been a few months, but Jeong-in’s heart pounded as if he was returning to a long missed hometown.
He gently shook Chase, who was asleep.
“Chase! Chase! We’re here!”
Chase lifted his eye mask and opened his eyes drowsily. Below his tousled golden hair, blue eyes still clouded with sleep looked at him.
Giving in to Jeong-in’s excitement, Chase looked out the window, then chuckled and playfully messed up his hair. Jeong-in was too happy to be annoyed and just grinned.
As soon as they exited the airport gate, Jeong-in spotted Suzy. She was wearing the “Harvard Mom” t-shirt he had sent her and holding a playfully made sign.
[Welcome Home, Lim & Prescott]
Jeong-in dropped his carry-on and ran to Suzy, hugging her tightly. She smiled broadly and embraced him firmly.
Chase picked up the carry-on he had abandoned and walked toward them.
“Well done! Our Harvard students!”
Suzy patted both of their backs alternately. Jeong-in had been waiting for this opportunity and immediately started complaining about Boston’s winter weather. He exaggerated a little, saying the temperatures dropped below freezing in the mornings and evenings, as if he had endured a terrible disaster.
The three of them left the airport and got into Suzy’s red Camry. When she started the engine, light pop music flowed from the radio. Outside the window, California’s clear sky and palm trees slid by.
“Home!”
At the end of Willow Street, Jeong-in exclaimed with excitement upon spotting the small two-story house in the distance. The modest home with its sage-green entrance, small porch, and little planters on either side, all bathed in sunlight, this familiar scenery filled Jeong-in’s heart with warmth.
Chase felt the same warmth as he remembered the coziness of that house. Watching Jeong-in practically bounce out of the car and rush to the entrance, a natural smile spread across Chase’s face.
As soon as the door opened, a tangy and rich aroma hit their noses. The smell of well stewed kimchi mixed with savory meat. Jeong-in recognized the menu without even seeing it and cheered.
“Don’t tell me, it’s pork and kimchi stew?”
Suzy nodded with a smile.
“I’ll heat it up. Go wash your hands.”
Jeong-in, with an excited face, pulled Chase into the bathroom.
Though they had become regulars at several Korean restaurants near Harvard, what Jeong-in missed most was still his mother’s cooking. After washing their hands, the two naturally helped Suzy set the table.
Soon, glossy rice and pork kimchi stew that had been simmering in an earthenware pot were placed on the table. It was a simple meal with just seaweed, rolled eggs, and a few side dishes. But everything looked freshly made. Jeong-in was slightly worried that Suzy might not be eating properly when alone.
Suzy looked at Chase with some concern, wondering if the food might be too spicy for him. However, after taking a mouthful of rice topped with kimchi and meat, he was eating well without turning red or breaking a sweat. Tilting her head slightly with curiosity, she asked.
“Oh my, Chase. Have you gotten used to spicy food?”
“I’ve been training with spicy tofu soup twice a week with Jeong-in.”
‘Training’ was truly the perfect word. He had been passionate about adapting his palate to Korean tastes. It was an effort born from his desire to understand Jeong-in a little better.
Suzy chuckled and served Chase more rice. He naturally picked up his spoon and took another bite. The spiciness made his tongue tingle slightly, but his expression remained relaxed.
“Next time I’ll retry that… what was that chicken drowning in lava called, Jeong-in?”
〈Spicy braised chicken.〉
“…Yes, that.”
Chase seemed reluctant to attempt the pronunciation and glossed over it. Watching him with contentment, Suzy playfully said.
“You know, in Korea, there’s a tradition of boiling chicken for a son-in-law when he visits.”
“But I’m not a daughter.”
“I’m not sure what food to serve when a son’s same-sex partner comes over.”
While eating, as if suddenly remembering something, Jeong-in looked at Suzy and asked.
“Mom, did you sign up for that dating app?”
“This kid. Saying anything even with Chase here.”
Jeong-in put down the spoon and said seriously.
“I told you to sign up. How are you going to meet someone if you only work?”
“Ah, two times was enough. I’ll pass on a third.”
Suzy chuckled and shook her head. At that moment, Chase playfully interjected.
“Should I look into it for you?”
Suzy gave Chase a light glance.
“Oh my, you too?”
Laughter naturally spread across the table.
Chase, after enjoying a hearty meal in the warm atmosphere, left early for home. It was his way of giving Jeong-in time to fully enjoy being with Suzy.
For the first time in a long while, Jeong-in stood side by side with Suzy doing the dishes. Jeong-in rinsed the dishes while Suzy dried them and put them away.
Between them, countless stories were exchanged. Stories about Harvard, dates with Chase, and the small changes in Bellacove that Jeong-in had missed.
After amicably finishing up in the kitchen, Jeong-in went up to his room on the second floor.
The room, entered after a long time, was exactly as it had been before Jeong-in left. Books and notebooks that hadn’t been fully organized were still visible on the desk.
Jeong-in strode to the bed and picked up Snowball, who had been bravely guarding the room, embracing it tightly. He didn’t forget to ask how it had been doing all this time.
After unpacking and taking a warm shower, he lay down on the bed early. As soon as his head touched the pillow, a languid fatigue spread throughout his body.
Just as he was about to slowly close his eyes, his phone vibrated briefly.
It was a message from Chase. And the content was enough to chase away Jeong-in’s sleepiness completely.
Chay❤️: [My father has invited you to a family dinner]
Jeong-in sat up abruptly, staring at the screen.
Chay❤️: [Whether you attend or not is up to you]
Chase also seemed worried, as the ellipsis indicating he was typing something repeatedly appeared.
Jeong-in held his phone quietly and took a deep breath. Soon, the next message arrived.
Chay❤️: [I really hope you don’t feel burdened by this]
Jeong-in put down his phone and was lost in thought for a moment.
It was expected. As his relationship with Chase deepened, his anxiety about this inevitable day had grown. Eventually, he found himself wanting to just get it over with and confront his family.
He knew they wouldn’t be easy to deal with. But it didn’t matter. Jeong-in was willing to face anything that stood between Chase and himself.
With determination, Jeong-in picked up his phone again. And typed just one phrase.
To Chay❤️ : [I’ll come]
***
A sense of impending battle filled Jeong-in’s room.
Standing in front of the mirror, Jeong-in took a deep breath. The stiff texture of the fabric touching his fingertips felt unfamiliar.
Jeong-in had taken out the suit that Steven had bought him before, which he had worn to a charity event. It was a suit he had worn almost 2 years ago, but unfortunately, he hadn’t grown taller, so it still fit perfectly.
Calmly buttoning up the jacket and slightly pulling down the sleeves, Jeong-in examined his reflection in the mirror.
“I can do this.”
It was like a promise to himself. Jeong-in lightly clenched and unclenched his fist, then picked up his phone to check the messages. The conversation with Chase was still there.
Chay❤️: [A car will come to pick you up on time
Yes, don’t worry, just trust me
I really chose a good boyfriend, so dependable and handsome]
Jeong-in muttered “I can do it” one more time before leaving the room. Now, it was time to be the knight who would rescue the princess trapped in the Prescott castle. A blonde princess. Somehow reminded of Rapunzel, Jeong-in smiled faintly.
As he stepped outside, a luxury sedan was quietly waiting by the roadside. It was a sleek, glossy black Rolls-Royce.
A large man in a crisp suit slightly bowed his head as soon as he saw Jeong-in and opened the back door for him.
“Mr. Lim.”
Jeong-in felt slightly intimidated for a moment, but quickly collected himself, trying not to be overwhelmed. He walked to the car with confident steps and got in.
The black sedan with its softly rumbling engine departed smoothly, and the scenery outside the window began to slowly drift by.
With Christmas approaching, 1 Crestview Drive was displaying a different atmosphere than usual.
The exterior of the mansion was lavishly decorated in Christmas red and green. Red ribbons and fir branches were wrapped around the gate pillars, and a large Christmas wreath that looked to be at least a meter in diameter hung in front of the entrance.
Twinkling lights flowed along the branches of the garden trees surrounding the mansion’s exterior. At the edge of the lawn, gold-plated reindeer ornaments sparkled in the light.
Upon entering through the front door, butler Clive Pembrook greeted Jeong-in. He wore a black tuxedo with his half-gray hair neatly combed back. His white gloved hands, without a single wrinkle, looked precise and proper.
Clive gave a slight bow toward Jeong-in.
“Mr. Lim, this way please.”
His voice was low and neat. His restrained courtesy seemed to represent the authority of this household.
The sound of two pairs of footsteps echoed on the marble floor.
Soon, a large, heavy mahogany door stood in Jeong-in’s way. Following Clive, who opened the double doors, Jeong-in entered and witnessed an astonishing scene.
It was like a scene taken straight out of a period drama. In front of him was a long, majestic dining table. It looked large enough to seat at least twenty people. A snow-white tablecloth covered the table, and the silver cutlery and crystal glasses placed on it sparkled in the chandelier light.
However, only four people were seated at that magnificent and enormous table. Those seated rose simultaneously as the door opened.
There wasn’t the slightest imperfection in their movements. It was elegant yet precise, as if acquired through long training. It seemed like impeccable etiquette education had been ingrained in them.
Jeong-in momentarily recalled what he had learned in European history class.
He had learned that the head of the household sits at the head of the long table, and the lady of the house sits at the opposite end. Today, of course, Dominic Prescott and Lillian Prescott occupied those positions respectively.
Dominic Prescott wore a dark navy suit with a matching tie and an impeccable white shirt. Even the subtle wrinkles on his face added to his dignified appearance.
Lillian Prescott wore a tweed dress that wasn’t excessively flashy. A delicate pearl necklace adorned her elegantly exposed neckline.
Jeong-in’s gaze shifted beside them. A stranger next to Chase caught his eye.
Jeong-in had been introduced to the brown-haired woman through family photos in Chase’s living room.
Sophia Prescott. Even more beautiful in person, she wore a deep blue silk dress that fit her perfectly. The modestly fitting dress line accentuated her toned figure. A delicately set diamond necklace sparkled over her dress.
Chase in his black suit and she sat side by side, and the seat across from them was left empty for the guest.
“Welcome.”
Dominic’s voice was low and firm. His gaze swept Jeong-in up and down. What could be clearly read in his eyes was, ‘You don’t belong here.’
“Hello,” Jeong-in greeted them without losing confidence, standing straight. After greeting Dominic, he nodded politely to Sophia and Lillian in turn.
Lillian’s eyes narrowed slightly as she looked at Jeong-in. Could she possibly remember their brief meeting from two years ago?
Meanwhile, Sophia’s gaze held a mixture of curiosity, caution, and cynicism. She examined Jeong-in as if scoring him. It was a look that seemed to be judging what kind of person he was.
Jeong-in tried even harder to smile. Wasn’t there a saying that one couldn’t spit at a smiling face? As if to show everyone, he gave Chase his most radiant smile.
“Hi, Chase.”
A subtle smile spread across Chase’s lips. As if unable to hide his amusement at Jeong-in’s boldness, he pretended to clear his throat, holding his fist to his mouth.
It was somewhat amusing and somewhat pitiful that Chase felt he needed to maintain appearances in front of his family. Had Chase lived his entire life in places like this?
A servant approached quietly and pulled out a chair. Jeong-in naturally nodded in thanks before sitting down. It was a seat across from Chase, somewhere between Chase and Sophia.
On the table, porcelain plates rimmed with gold and silver cutlery were placed at precise intervals. Each item was perfectly aligned as if measured with a ruler.
Jeong-in quietly looked down at the silver utensils placed in front of him. There were too many. Just the forks alone numbered four. Jeong-in only knew the basic etiquette that one should use the outermost utensils first.
“Bring in the food,” said Dominic.
At his words, the servants approached without delay and placed the first course on the table.
On the plate lowered from a small silver tray was a neatly plated salmon tartare. The salmon was cleanly trimmed into cubes, topped with finely chopped chives, lemon zest, and finely ground black pepper scattered like dots, satisfying the visual pleasure as well.
Jeong-in momentarily tensed as he looked at the plate, then glanced at Chase. Chase demonstratively picked up the outermost fork with a relaxed hand movement.
Jeong-in followed suit, picking up the outermost fork as well. It didn’t seem particularly difficult to imitate proper dining etiquette if he just had to follow Chase.
Dominic, elegantly handling his fork and knife, addressed Jeong-in.
“Jay, was it?”
“Yes.”
Jeong-in put down his fork and straightened his back as he answered.
“I would have expected you to have some exotic name.”
Was he trying to point out that Jeong-in was an immigrant, that he didn’t belong here? Was he trying to say that this wasn’t his world?
Jeong-in maintained a natural smile and calmly replied, “I do have a Korean name, but I’ve only permitted Chase to use it. Please just call me Jay.”
For a moment, a suppressed laugh was heard. It came from Sophia’s direction. She quickly composed her expression and took a sip from her water glass.
“Excuse me.”
Jeong-in’s ears perked up at Sophia’s husky voice. A low, soft, yet clearly resonant sound. Both siblings not only had striking appearances but also perfect voices. It naturally made him think how unfair the world was.
Meanwhile, Chase seemed even more captivated by Jeong-in’s confident demeanor that didn’t waver in this situation. He was resting both elbows on the table as he gazed at Jeong-in.
Lillian, who had been eating her food elegantly with downcast eyes, quietly pointed out as if she knew without looking, “Chase, elbows.”
Chase quickly lowered his elbows. Jeong-in, taking the cue, also discreetly lowered the one elbow he had rested on the table.
Seeing this, Sophia’s lips curled up slightly. It was a smile of interest.
What’s this, does she like me? Jeong-in subtly tilted his head in confusion.
Dominic took a sip from his wine glass and addressed Jeong-in again.
“I wonder if you were surprised by this sudden invitation.”
“It’s fine.”
“It must be quite unfamiliar, but Chase can help you. He was educated from a young age to be considerate of others.”
The hidden meaning in his words was clearly felt. It meant that Chase was of a higher caliber than Jeong-in, and that Jeong-in could only fit in with Chase’s consideration.
Dominic employed the speech patterns of the aristocracy, speaking in roundabout ways without being caught. It was the typical rhetoric used by people in business or politics.
They don’t state their opinions precisely but rather generalize them. They express themselves indirectly so that the other person cannot find grounds for attack. Not direct, but politely and cleverly putting down the other person.
On the surface, it seemed imbued with consideration and kindness, but in reality, it was subtly dismissive of Jeong-in.
To avoid being swayed, Jeong-in steeled his resolve once more, telling himself to remain alert.
The next dish was blini with caviar. It was a small pancake topped with crème fraîche, a French cream with the fat removed from milk, and garnished with premium caviar.
After savoring the food for a moment, Dominic beckoned to Clive, who was waiting at one side of the room.
“The caviar is good. Send my compliments to the kitchen.”
“Yes, sir.”
Dominic glanced in Jeong-in’s direction. Unfamiliar with the popping texture and slightly fishy aroma of caviar, Jeong-in had hesitated to touch this course.
“Did you know caviar is shark eggs?”
Jeong-in looked as if he had heard the most absurd question in the world. He was the type who typically couldn’t hide his expressions well.
Dominic continued speaking, gently twirling the base of his wine glass with his fingertips.
“I’ve heard that apex predators like sharks have such a significant impact on the ecosystem that the disappearance of even one cannot be ignored.”
He could guess what he was trying to say. Chase was an apex predator, and he needed to stay in his place. That was the natural order, and deviating from that order shouldn’t be allowed.
Jeong-in dabbed his lips with napkin and quietly began his rebuttal. Back when he represented Yemen, one of the Middle East’s poorest countries, in the Model UN, Jeong-in had humbled the American representative using nothing but facts and logic.
“With all due respect, caviar comes from sturgeon eggs. But did you know that sturgeons aren’t taxonomically sharks? Sharks are cartilaginous fish while sturgeons are regular bony fish. So it’s not shark eggs, but just regular fish eggs, to be precise.”
Dominic’s face visibly hardened as he listened to Jeong-in. His fingers tensed around the glass, applying slight pressure to it.
At that moment, Sophia leaned toward Chase and whispered softly.
“Tell me honestly. Where did you find this Hermione?”
Chase chuckled, and Lillian turned her head to point out Sophia’s poor manners.
“Sophia.”
“Ahem. I apologize.”
Meanwhile, Dominic was gradually realizing that this boy was no ordinary opponent. He wasn’t someone who could be brushed aside using his usual methods.
Amid the tense atmosphere, the servants moved silently but busily, and course after course continued to arrive. The Prescott family dinner was structured around traditional European formal dining, with no less than seven dishes prepared.
By the time dessert was served after the main course of tenderloin steak, Jeong-in was already completely full.
There’s a saying that important conversations should happen when the other person is full, as that’s when their defenses are at their lowest. Was he aware of this strategy? Dominic’s gaze targeted Jeong-in.
“Ah, Mr. Lim.”
Dominic called to Jeong-in as if a thought had just occurred to him.
“You’re surely aware of the trust fund Chase receives.”
As if realizing that roundabout speech would yield no results, Dominic’s manner of speaking became much more direct.
He emphasized the word ‘surely,’ with a tone implying that Jeong-in was a gold-digger who had approached Chase for his wealth.
“No. I figured he was a trust fund kid, but I don’t know the details.”
“That’s true. He’s never asked me about it, and I’ve never told him,” Chase intervened, adding weight to Jeong-in’s answer.
Children who inherit large sums through trust funds are commonly called ‘trust fund kids.’ One such trust fund kid was sitting across from Jeong-in.
Dominic let out a snicker.
“Then it’s better you know now. Chase’s trust fund totals 500 million dollars.”
“Pardon?”
Jeong-in’s eyes widened. He was genuinely surprised.
$500,000,000 is a lot of money. $5 million is an amount most ordinary people would never see in their lifetime. $50 million is a level of wealth that’s difficult to even imagine. But $500 million?
Jeong-in immediately looked at Chase and asked.
“Why do you even go to school? Are you really planning on getting a job?”
His expression showed genuine curiosity.
Chase couldn’t help but laugh at Jeong-in’s utterly honest reaction. He quickly covered his smiling mouth with his palm.
Sophia also had the look of someone trying to hold back laughter. Only Lillian remained calm, sipping her wine.
Dominic’s brow furrowed, wondering if this small Asian man was mocking him.
“That’s assuming he’ll receive it smoothly.”
Dominic’s gaze slowly swept across the table. Everyone had just barely tasted their desserts before setting down their spoons.
“Since the meal seems to be over, I’ll call in a guest. Clive?”
“Yes, sir.”
As if on cue, Clive quietly left the room. Shortly after, a man in formal attire entered. A brown suit that inspired confidence, silver-rimmed glasses perched on the bridge of his nose, and documents held in his arms. Even to the uninformed Jeong-in, he was clearly a lawyer.
They’d even called in a lawyer. Sensing that something serious was about to unfold, Jeong-in steeled himself once more. Getting unnecessarily excited could ruin everything. Stay calm.
The $500 million figure was certainly shocking. But it was just a number. Just paper. It wasn’t money that could ever be his anyway.
The lawyer who brought the documents spoke in a precise and calm tone, like an actor whose turn to deliver lines had come.
“As you know, Chase Prescott’s trust fund was initiated when he turned 20, and currently, Chase receives annual dividends generated from the trust.”
His speech was impeccably smooth. Every sentence, every word seemed to be neatly arranged with legal meaning.
“However, should it be revealed that the trust agreement conditions have been violated, the trust may be immediately terminated.”
Jeong-in raised his hand instinctively. It was an unconscious habit from his school days of responding to teachers’ questions. As if forgetting how serious the current situation was, pure curiosity responded first.
“What exactly is an annual dividend?”
“Mr. Chase Prescott’s trust began when he turned 20, and he currently receives $5 million annually. Additionally, at age 25, he can decide whether to receive the remaining amount as a lump sum or continue receiving it in the form of an annuity.”
Jeong-in immediately turned to look at Chase with incredulous eyes.
“Wait, and you still made me pay for the dormitory laundry last time?”
“I didn’t have coins then. And I didn’t bring my card either.”
At that moment, Dominic redirected the deteriorating conversation back to its original course.
“You might actually have to cover his laundry expenses someday. If Chase violates the terms of the trust agreement, he will no longer receive dividends. He would become penniless.”
It sounded like a line delivered by a villain in a movie. No, it was closer to something a parent in a Korean melodrama might say.
“Ah, to clarify for Mr. Lim, these aren’t conditions I created or modified. They’ve been passed down through the Prescott family for five generations now.”
Shifting responsibility to his ancestors, Dominic gave a slight nod to the lawyer. A signal to continue.
“Mr. Chase Prescott’s trust agreement has three main clauses. First, the academic and grade maintenance clause. The Prescott family heir must attend an Ivy League school, and enrollment marks the beginning of the trust.”
Jeong-in brightened up.
“Chase is attending Harvard, so this condition is fulfilled. There’s no specification about which department he should enter. That means he could even receive it if he went to medical school.”
At Jeong-in’s words, Sophia raised an eyebrow and muttered, “Medical school?”
Dominic, with his lips pressed into a line, slowly twirled his index finger in the air. A signal to continue.
The lawyer cleared his throat and calmly resumed.
“Second, the social image maintenance clause. The Prescott family heir must have an unblemished reputation. No public scandals, no police investigations, arrests, or involvement in crimes. Furthermore, if negatively reported in the media, the trust can be immediately revoked.”
Jeong-in’s eyes narrowed.
Social image? What was the purpose of including such an ambiguous expression?
“Don’t you think this could become problematic?” Dominic asked in a relaxed voice. Both his tone and facial expression remained composed.
But everyone present knew that Dominic was noticeably more unsettled than when the dinner began. The tiny beads of sweat forming at the edge of his forehead proved it.
He was clearly breaking a sweat dealing with this small Asian man.
“How so?”
Dominic let out a scoffing laugh, as if the very question was absurd.
“Are you thinking it might be an issue because I’m a minority immigrant?”
Dominic almost spat out the wine he was drinking. He had never encountered someone who spoke so directly. Usually, people spoke indirectly or vaguely, but there was none of that cultured circumlocution here.
“I am currently a U.S. citizen, and there were no legal disqualifications in my obtaining citizenship.”
Lillian’s brow furrowed slightly, seemingly irritated by Jeong-in’s continued directness. Chase cautiously observed his mother’s reaction. But nothing could stop Jeong-in, who had come prepared for battle.
“Surely you wouldn’t object on the grounds of same-sex relationships, especially when same-sex marriage has been legalized. If it became known that you opposed it for such reasons, you might be the one negatively portrayed in the media.”
Sophia curled the corner of her lips slightly, as if finding it interesting. Then she nodded slowly.
Nowadays, promoting hatred is the biggest issue. In this era, questioning someone’s gender, race, origin, or sexual identity immediately damages one’s image. It could lower the brand value of a corporation that moves based on credit, and shareholders might object. This was precisely what Dominic needed to be most cautious about.
“…Continue.”
Dominic’s lips moved several times toward Jeong-in before he finally just let out a deep sigh. Then he gestured to the lawyer again.
“Third, the courtship and marriage clause.”
Here it comes. Jeong-in swallowed hard and listened attentively.
“The Prescott family heir must date and marry someone recognized by the family. The spouse must be an Ivy League graduate.”
In that moment, Jeong-in’s heart sank. Being a Harvard student, he met the Ivy League requirement. However, there was no way he could fulfill the previous clause. The Prescott family would never recognize him.
Seeing Jeong-in’s darkened expression, a faint smile spread across Dominic’s lips. His eyes gleamed with a sense of victory.
“If you love someone, shouldn’t you also understand their family traditions?”
Now Dominic wore a pitying expression, as if feeling sorry for Jeong-in. But it was all pretense and deception.
Despair clouded Jeong-in’s once bright, lively eyes. The third clause was an issue that Chase couldn’t change no matter how hard he tried.
But Jeong-in soon raised his head. Today, he was a knight coming to rescue a princess trapped in a castle. He recalled the promise he had made to himself while looking in the mirror before coming here.
It didn’t matter if Chase couldn’t access a trust that Jeong-in hadn’t even known existed. Chase would think the same. In fact, it would hurt more if Chase suggested breaking up so he could receive the trust. The Chase that Jeong-in knew would definitely feel that way.
Jeong-in spoke with determination.
“I’ll support him myself.”
“Ha!”
Dominic burst into mocking laughter, as if he’d forgotten all manners and dignity.
“I plan to become a pharmaceutical researcher. It’s one of the highest-paying professions in America,” Jeong-in said.
Pfft— Sophia couldn’t hold back her laughter.
This boy was essentially saying he would become a researcher and support Chase. Not just anyone, but Chase Prescott, heir to the Prescott family.
Yet Chase didn’t laugh at Jeong-in’s words at all. He stared at him in complete silence, as if he’d forgotten to breathe.
Throughout the evening, he had barely spoken a word, watching Jeong-in as if enchanted as he fought for him. His resolute gaze, his unwavering voice, all of it deeply moved Chase’s heart.
It was Lillian Prescott, who had been quietly observing the entire time, who broke the silence.
“I’ll allow it.”
Suddenly, the temperature in the room changed. Everyone was visibly surprised, Jeong-in, Dominic, Sophia, Chase, and even the servants. All eyes turned to Lillian.
“If everyone hasn’t forgotten, the name Prescott follows mine as well.”
Lillian’s voice was calm and quiet, yet simultaneously intimidating.
“Darling!”
Dominic slammed his fist on the table and shot to his feet. But Lillian paid no attention. She held her wine glass in one hand, swirling it gently to release the aroma as she continued.
“I rather like him.”
Her bored, cynical gaze drifted toward Jeong-in.
“How should I put it… he seems to have a certain chivalry.”
Jeong-in’s eyes widened. Ah, she remembers meeting me at the charity event. Well, I am wearing exactly the same outfit.
Lillian smoothly smiled toward her husband.
“Besides, anything that makes you foam at the mouth like this, why would I object?”
Dominic’s face turned ashen. He clenched his hand resting on the table.
“Kingsley!”
He urgently called for the lawyer. But the lawyer shook his head apologetically. It meant there was nothing he could do.
Jeong-in spoke with a gentle smile on his face.
“This is also with all due respect, even to someone as uninformed as me, the trust conditions I just heard seem full of loopholes.”
A loophole refers to a gap or hole in laws or regulations. It describes a situation where one appears to be following the rules on the surface, but is actually exploiting ambiguous parts or vague expressions to circumvent or avoid those rules.
Chase added, “But what can we do? It’s our family tradition, passed down for five generations.”
Dominic hissed through clenched teeth.
“Chase! If you continue like this, I’ll give my shares to Sophia.”
“Wow. I’m fine with that, Father.”
Sophia quickly chimed in, her gray eyes gleaming with a predatory light. She looked like a beast ready to snatch falling prey.
“Yes, good thinking! Give me a chance. Unlike him, I can commit everything to the Prescott empire. I have more than enough talent. Who else outside the family could you trust with the family business?”
“This is not the time for such talk!”
Sophia clicked her tongue, folded her arms, and pouted.
Just then, Lillian calmly tilted her wine glass and said, “Then divorce me.”
“What?”
Lillian continued matter-of-factly.
“If you try to play games with shares, I’ll give my portion to Chase to counter you.”
“Ha! Your shares? What shares do you claim when all you do is look at scraps of paintings?”
Lillian smirked as if she had expected this response.
“It would be quite entertaining to claim my contribution during divorce proceedings. You know very well how much Prescott Capital Holdings’ assets grew thanks to my family when we married.”
The corner of Dominic’s mouth twitched slightly.
“You’re now…”
“Need an example? Ten years ago, Chairman Warren Adams. When his wife divorced him, she claimed half the company shares based on asset growth before and after the merger, and they ended up splitting 50-50. As a result, control of the Adams Group became unstable.”
Trembling with rage, Dominic finally threw the napkin from his lap onto his plate and left. It was essentially a declaration of defeat.
His back disappeared through the doorway, but the remaining people neither showed any concern nor worried about him. That was the distance these family members kept from each other.
Lillian dismissed all the servants, and as soon as only family remained, Sophia grabbed Chase by the collar.
“Are you really going to medical school?”
Her almost silver-gray eyes gleamed sharply. Chase calmly removed her grip from his collar and answered.
“Yes.”
“Why? No, how did you come up with such an idea?”
An animal raised on a leash won’t venture beyond the radius it was tied to, even after the leash is removed. How could Chase, who grew up tethered to a platinum leash, go that far?
“I met someone who awakened my dream.”
Chase’s gaze naturally turned toward Jeong-in.
Chase’s life had never been solely his own. His achievements were Prescott achievements, and his failures became Prescott blemishes. Whatever Chase wanted, whatever path he chose, his duty as someone carrying Prescott blood always took priority.
But after meeting Jeong-in, his life changed. For the first time, his choices became truly his own.
He decided to cast off the leash that had bound him and walk hand in hand with Jeong-in. Each step on that path was filled with happiness and freedom beyond words.
Sophia looked at Jeong-in and then back at Chase, as if hardly believing the situation.
“Brother, I support your noble mission and lofty spirit as a medical professional.”
“That doesn’t mean I’m completely letting go. I still need to exercise my authority.”
Lillian, who had been listening quietly, clicked her tongue. Her expression clearly showed her disapproval. She turned to her son and asked,
“A doctor? Why would you want to do something so underpaid and difficult? Did he put you up to this?”
“Of course not,” Chase answered with a smile. Lillian then directed her question to Jeong-in.
“Speaking of which, why do you people like becoming doctors so much?”
‘You people.’ It was somewhat racist. But by now, such comments were hardly surprising. He also knew there was no malice behind it.
“Why shouldn’t someone become a doctor?” Jeong-in calmly countered.
“A medical license isn’t something you can inherit. I’m curious why you’re so desperate to become doctors or lawyers. Why go to such lengths? You can just hire them. Why try so hard to become servants yourselves?”
It was the perspective of someone who had lived in a completely different world.
In Lillian’s mindset, hiring a doctor was far more natural than becoming one. Chase had been raised with this mindset from childhood. The fact that he had developed a dream of becoming a doctor was therefore all the more remarkable.
“My people value diligence. We consider someone who earnestly works for their $100 million more honorable than someone who inherits it.”
Jeong-in returned Lillian’s phrase in kind, deliberately emphasizing the words ‘my people.’
Sophia raised an eyebrow slightly. Her eyes held a hint of admiration, as if thinking, ‘This one is something special.’
“Well, do as you please. I’m tired and need to lie down.”
Lillian rose from her seat languidly and suddenly looked at Jeong-in.
“It’s not an easy family to deal with. You can see that for yourself.”
Her eyes held complex emotions.
After a moment of silence, Lillian added,
“But someone like you might just manage.”
As soon as Lillian left the room, there was the sound of a chair dragging across the carpet.
Before Jeong-in could turn his head, Sophia rushed over. Standing nearly 180cm tall and wearing heels, she was much taller than him. Approaching with flashing eyes, she firmly cupped Jeong-in’s cheeks with both hands.
“Excuse me for a moment.”
His cheeks squished together, making his lips protrude like a fish. She lowered her head and planted a kiss on his lips, then pulled him into an embrace. It was a rather aggressive expression of gratitude.
“Sophia Prescott!”
Chase shouted. He ran over and tried to pull Sophia away, but she was surprisingly strong, giving even Chase a hard time. Finally releasing Jeong-in, Sophia wore an expression of supreme satisfaction.
“I’ve always lived with that feeling. The feeling of having everything taken away from me by the people closest to me.”
Chase was at a loss for words.
His indifference toward others had extended even to his sister.
Despite her exceptional qualities, Sophia was never given the opportunity to compete for management rights. The age old tradition that the Prescott family heir must be male had blocked her path.
Chase had always felt sorry for his sister, but he had never properly expressed those feelings or attempted to change anything.
While Chase was lost in self-reflection, Sophia clung to Jeong-in again.
“I knew it. I was told I’d meet a benefactor before the year ended. It was you all along!”
Sophia cupped Jeong-in’s face again and frantically planted kisses on his forehead and cheeks. Jeong-in squinted his eyes like a wink as his cheeks were kissed, but he didn’t refuse, suggesting he didn’t mind. He even laughed as if ticklish. Chase was the only one who seemed distressed.
“Alright, I completely understand. I’m really sorry, Sophia. Let him go now.”
Only then did Sophia step back with a satisfied face.
Having reclaimed Jeong-in and seated him beside himself, Chase sighed deeply and asked Sophia,
“But what’s this about a benefactor? What are you talking about?”
“I had my tarot cards read before coming.”
“You do that kind of thing?”
“It’s surprisingly accurate, you know? Just look at the current situation.”
It had been well over two years since the siblings had conversed so naturally. Last Christmas, Sophia had gone on a ski trip to Aspen, and the last time they had met was Thanksgiving the year before that.
Sophia exhaled with a sense of liberation and plopped back into her seat. This time, she casually draped one arm over the chair in a very relaxed posture.
“By the way, I didn’t expect Mom to react like that.”
“…Me neither.”
Chase thought of Lillian, who had taken his side. Indeed, she was different from those born Prescotts.
“And what’s this about chivalry?”
Chase and Sophia, the similar-looking siblings, simultaneously turned their gaze to Jeong-in.
“That’s a secret between your mother and me.”
Sophia shrugged as if to say it didn’t matter.
Jeong-in relaxed his rigidly straight back and stretched out comfortably.
Now that the tension had eased, he began to notice the finer details around him. Like Sophia’s hair, for instance.
Her hair color was unusual. It was light near the scalp but gradually became a darker brown toward the ends. Almost like someone who hadn’t dyed their gray roots.
But normally it was the opposite. The scalp is usually darkest, with the hair lightening toward the ends as it becomes bleached.
Unable to contain his curiosity, Jeong-in inadvertently murmured,
“Your hair…”
Sophia casually gathered a handful of her hair, as if it were nothing significant.
“Oh, this? I dyed it. I was sick of being blonde in so many ways.”
Sophia Prescott was also blonde. The genetic stubbornness of the Prescott family was truly remarkable.
Though born as the eldest daughter proudly carrying the Prescott name, she had never been given any authority. Dyeing her blonde hair dark brown was her first act of rebellion. Though it seemed trivial, it might have been the strongest resistance she could manage.
Jeong-in forgot that her words might be impolite and spoke as if entranced.
“Don’t dye it.”
“Why?”
She tilted her head and asked.
“Because it’s pretty as it is. Oh, I’m sorry if that was rude. I just…”
“Well, it’s not that rude.”
Jeong-in shifted his gaze to Chase’s blonde hair. It was like gold stretched into strands. The hair itself was fine yet abundant, slightly wavy but with a smooth texture. Jeong-in particularly enjoyed wrapping Chase’s hair around his fingers playfully.
“It’s like… a gift from God.”
That simple statement, delivered in Jeong-in’s slow and calm manner, created a strangely profound resonance. It made listeners feel as if there was some deeper meaning behind it, compelling them to ponder it again.
Sophia’s eyes flickered slightly. But soon she avoided Jeong-in’s gaze with an awkward smile.
“…Guess I won’t then. It was a hassle to dye it every month anyway.”
Chase chuckled seeing Sophia’s deliberately indifferent expression. As if to insist she hadn’t been persuaded by Jeong-in’s words, Sophia added,
“Thinking about taking control of the company, playing the blonde stereotype might not be bad. Those idiots who make deals while playing golf would freely share their company secrets with me.”
Sophia stood up. As she was about to leave the dining room, she paused briefly and turned her head toward Chase.
“I’m a little jealous.”
“Hm?”
“If I had someone who would fight for me like that, I’d give them anything.”
“Even the family business?”
“Well, not that far.”
After Sophia left, only the two of them remained in the spacious dining room.
Jeong-in stood up and looked down at Chase sitting beside him, extending his hand.
“Shall we go too?”
Chase’s blue eyes rippled like waves.
Having been born with everything, he had never felt the need to be saved. He could have anything he wanted, and everything flowed as he wished. Everything was so easy it made him yawn. Cynicism and boredom followed as a natural progression.
To him, Jeong-in was the first to teach him about lack and yearning.
He felt like the Tin Woodman who had finally received a heart. Now that he had it, the pain of a beating heart, its overwhelming nature, and fear all rushed in simultaneously. But for the first time, he could feel what it meant to be alive.
Chase took Jeong-in’s hand and gently turned it to reveal the back of his hand. Then, without hesitation, he lowered his head and kissed it. That kiss, filled with gratitude and respect, was even reverent, like performing a sacred ritual.
“Yes. Let’s go.”
Chase looked up at Jeong-in with the eyes of a devoted follower.
And he firmly grasped the hand extended by his savior.