Apollo’s Heart - Chapter 39

Chapter 39 –  The Reunion (1)

-How did you come up with that idea?

Roy thought he had known Yuri well enough by now. Considering the time he had spent with her, her decision appeared genuinely out of character for him.

On the other hand, Yuri knew what she said was puzzling Roy, but she couldn’t just bring herself to confide in him. Instead, she hesitated to confess what she found out just recently–most of all, about the death of her friend, Hye-yeon.

She shook her head. Everything was still vague to her–her father’s death, the ten days she went missing which she could not remember, and the man who kept on searching for her.

“Roy… Images I couldn’t understand keep popping in my head the longer I stay here. I think they’re related to my lost memories, but it’s difficult to explain.” She pursed her lips before she uttered her next words, “But one thing is clear for sure. I think I have forgotten something I should not have.”

Yuri was not sure if she had lost something that she must not forget, or if she is trying to regain something she must not remember.

-What is it?

“I don’t know what it is, but flashbacks come every once in a while. I’m sure it will make sense over time.”

Silence hung in the air once again. With a heavy heart, Roy eventually spoke…

-Do you have a place to stay?

“I am looking for a place available to rent for a short while only. I will let you know once I find out more about it.”

-Will you be ok doing everything all alone?

“Don’t worry. I am taking my pills regularly, and I am paying attention to myself. It won’t take that long.”

Her last sentence was said more of a hunch than an actual fact. For some reason, she could feel that it was close.

After the call with Roy, she put her phone back in the purse and checked her makeup one more time. Eventually her eyes gravitated to the business card on the vanity table.

Ivory color, Seoin Hotel, Director Jae-won Lee.

If it is ok with you, can you give me a call before you go back to the States?

He was a well-mannered man, equipped with a kind face. He seemed like a guy who would have numerous suitors, but Yuri did not feel any chemistry with him.

She appreciated his favor, but she did not want anything personal from him. Yuri picked up the card, and tore it up bit by bit, before depositing the remains onto the nearby trash bin.

***

Si-yeon received a notice that the installation had been completed, she was about to step out of her office and head to the lounge. However, an unexpected visit stopped her. Even the visitor had left Si-yeon’s secretary, Kim, wide-eyed after their encounter.

It was Tae-jun, who stood in front of Si-yeon’s office.

Tae-jun had visited her office before, but this time it was different. He came without any notice, not even his secretary accompanied him.

What is going on? Secretary Kim quickly shot up from their seated position, and bowed to Tae-jun before inquiring.

“Good morning, Director Seo. How can I help you?”

“I would like to talk to her.”

Of course, that would be his reason. But the question is, what would he want to talk about?

Si-yeon stared at Tae-jun, trying to read his intention, but she could not find a single clue. His expression was impassive, and his voice monotonous. If it was work-related, he would have been accompanied by his secretary

So Si-yeon was left to be clueless.

“Well, please come in.” Si-Yeon opened her office door, allowing him in.

“Could you wait for a moment? We just installed a new exhibit in the VIP lounge. I need to confirm if everything is ok for the last time. It won’t take long…”

However, Tae-jun seemed to have no intention to enter the office, as he remained glued to where he stood.

“Aren’t you coming in?” Si-yeon wondered.

“I will come with you. I would like to see it as well.”

“What?”

“I want to see the Heart of Apollo.”

Si-yeon and her secretary stared at him agaped.

Tae-jun did not even give them room to answer – instead, he pushed the button to call up an elevator. As discreetly as she could, Si-yeon ordered her secretary to figure out what is going on with Tae-jun. Kim quickly texted his secretary and asked why his boss was in Si-yeon’s office.

Waiting for the elevator, Si-yeon reinitiated the conversation.

“I didn’t know you were interested in the Heart of Apollo. Did you know Roy Jean?”

“Yes, but not for long.”

“So, you’ve only heard about him recently?”

Si-yeon asked again when the elevator reached them, and the door slid open. Tae-jun entered first and leaned against the furthest wall in the back. Si-yeon and her secretary followed shortly after him. Kim pushed the button to reach the VIP lounge.

“Jae-won had mentioned he’s been planning to purchase Roy Jean’s pieces for Seoin Hotel’s lobby.” he eventually explained.

“Alright, that’s why you came.”

“Is Roy Jean here?”

“No, he’s not here.”

“Why? It is such an important and expensive project. He should be here.”

“He had previous responsibilities in Japan. I was desperate, so the installation was managed by his assistant.”

“Ok, then she must be alone.” Tae-jun mumbled in a low voice.