Her REV LOVE

C-6

Six Years Later.

The crowded streets of Seoul were abuzz, as one of the most exclusive event centers in all of Asia hosted the most talked-about unveiling of the century.

Tonight would also showcase the return of the illustrious jewelry empire, Park & Co., and present their long-lost daughter to society.

Frank Park was a famous designer of jewelry, who had turned a non-descript family business into an international powerhouse with his exquisite designs and trendsetting pieces of work; hence, he was an icon. Years ago, with his wife, he'd flown the coop from South Korea, retreating into relative obscurity amidst speculation regarding personal tragedy. That fact alone had drawn the elites-magnates, socialites-to forge acquaintance and relationships with the returned Parks.

A sea of presspeople jammed the lawn outside the event center, microphones in hand as they broadcast live updates. The reporter for Seoul Star News bellowed out the most exciting narration, standing in front.

"Good evening ladies and gentlemen. Tonight, one of the most historic moments is being created because Frank Park, the owner of Park & Co., is introducing his daughter to the world. Present among all the guests, the most eligible bachelor in Korea, CEO of Choi Enterprises, Ryan Choi. But the burning question in every person's mind is, who is this mysterious daughter, Ruth Park?

As the journalist's voice cut through the air, a black luxury car pulled up, and a man alighted from it, wrapped in an aura of power and confidence. Ryan Choi was clothed in a navy tailored suit, his sharp jawline and piercing gaze cutting through. His well-styled dark hair and subtle cologne combined to make him magnetic.

He strode into the grand hall, his thoughts oblivious to the reporters. What he wanted was a partnership with Frank Park, and he would get it.

"Ryan!" A lilting voice cut into his concentration.

Turning, he saw Ivy Kim, her polished appearance marred only by the wheelchair she sat in. Her smile was warm, but there was a tinge of tension in her expression.

"Ivy," Ryan said, squaring to her. "Did you manage to get in with Mr. Park?" Again, she broke into a rather nervous-sounding laugh. "Not as of yet. Severe security detail around him, I'm afraid. But don't you mind, Ryan. My family's long-standing relationship with the Parks will come in quite useful." Ryan nodded, but noticeably tightened his jaw-the deliberate avoidance from Frank Park was starting to get on his nerves.

The evening progressed, and soon the event’s master of ceremonies took the stage. The crowd hushed as the spotlight illuminated the entrance.

“Ladies and gentlemen, it is my honor to present Mr. Frank Park and his wife, Min-Ji Park!”

A wave of applause greeted the couple as they entered. Frank’s commanding presence and Min-Ji’s refined elegance were captivating. Together, they ascended the stage, radiating grace and authority.

"Thank you for the warm welcome," Frank started in his deep voice. "Today marks a new chapter in the life of Park & Co. We are relocating our operations to Korea, and for that, I'd like to introduce someone very special. Please welcome my daughter, Ruth Park."

The room fell into a stunned silence then erupted in murmurs with the entrance of a woman. Dressed in a flowing, crimson gown that shimmered at every light, Ruth Park looked like a vision. Confident, almond-shaped eyes sparkled, and cascades of dark hair swept down her back in rhythmic waves.

Ryan's breath hitched at the sight of her. Disbelief crashed over him, his mind racing.

"Larisa?" he muttered almost inaudibly. Jeez, it couldn't be; the lady ahead was a dead ringer for his deceased wife.

beside him, Ivy paled. "Can't be," she breathed. "Larisa's dead."

Ryan did not say a word as Ruth sashayed upon the stage with ease and assurance. His heart jolted, while all remembrances of Larisa inundated his psyche in waves.

Good evening," Ruth's voice rang clear and cool. "My name is Ruth Park, and I am privileged to carry on the family business. I am the newly appointed CEO of Park & Co., and I aim to further develop what was laid down by my parents.

The crowd exploded in thunderous applause, but Ryan, thunderstruck, hadn't budged an inch, his mind racing. Was it Larisa, or is it just some other lady? If it was, in the world, she was; and why hiding from him?

Ivy's hand fisted on the armrest of her wheelchair, her mind racing. She couldn't ignore how Ryan was looking at Ruth, with an intensity in his eyes. Fear and jealousy gnawed at her insides as she realized that she might lose him to this enigmatic woman.

The rest of the evening was a blur to Ryan. He couldn't get out of his mind that he needed to speak with Ruth, to confirm whether she was who she said she was. But every time he approached, someone else intercepted her, leaving him frustrated.

Finally, as the night was getting on and the guest began to leave, he saw his chance. She was standing alone near a balcony, looking out across the city lights. He swallowed hard and went to approach her.

"Excuse me," he said low.

She turned, eyes meeting his. Time suddenly stood still. Her facial expression was calm, though there was a flicker of recognition in her eyes.

"Yes?" she asked, her voice polite but guarded.

"I…" Ryan fumbled, searching for words to frame his thoughts. "You remind me of someone I used to know."

Ruth tilted her head slightly, curiosity flickering across her features. "Is that so?"

He nodded, his throat dry. "Her name was Larisa. She was my wife.

A shadow crossed over Ruth's features, which she masked almost immediately. "I'm sorry to hear that," she said with a steady voice. "But I assure you, we have never met."

Ryan's heart dropped at the words, but there was something in the tone that didn't set quite right. He felt instinctively that this wasn't the time.

"Thank you for your kind words," he finally said. "It was a pleasure meeting you, Miss Park.

He walked away, his feelings telling him that Ruth had something to hide. He was going to find it out.

---

Outside, on the balcony, Ruth watched Ryan's disappearing form, her composure wavered just for an instant. Her hand on the railing of the balustrade began to shake, and her mind raced.

"Ryan," she whispered. "What are you doing here?