Claiming His Heart (English Version)

Chapter 37

When you love someone, it didn’t matter if it hurt. Pain was merely a side effect, a price for the joy of being able to give your heart fully, without hesitation. That was why Lucy never gave up. She loved with everything she had, pouring herself into each moment, each gesture, every ounce of care she could muster. Some people called it foolish, some brave, but to Lucy, it was simply the only way to live. She knew the world could be harsh and unforgiving, but love... true love was worth every risk.

Drake was cold, distant, a wall of ice that could make anyone shiver just by looking at him. And yet, that didn’t stop her. She understood that his coldness had reasons, reasons buried deep and heavy in a past filled with loss and guilt. She respected that. More than that, she wanted to help him. She wanted to show him that the world didn’t end, that happiness still existed even after tragedy. That there were memories to be made, moments to be cherished, laughter waiting just around the corner. She would be patient. She would wait. She would stand by his side until he healed completely, until he was ready to let someone love him again.

A deep sigh escaped her lips as she realized just how absorbed she had been in her thoughts. Hours had passed without her noticing. The morning had dissolved into afternoon, and suddenly it was lunch break. She glanced around the office, noticing the quiet hum of activity, and then toward the office door. Where could Drake be? Surely he hadn’t skipped lunch entirely.

Before she could dwell on it too much, a familiar voice called out.

“Lucy, my friend, let’s go eat lunch together. I came to fetch you so you couldn’t refuse,” Daryl said, appearing with a grin that practically begged for mischief.

Lucy rolled her eyes, but the corners of her mouth lifted in amusement. “All right, Daryl, my friend. That should stop your endless nagging,” she said, pretending exasperation. His laughter echoed down the hall, a sound that lightened the mood even as she felt the tension of the morning lingering.

As they walked together, Lucy’s thoughts wandered back to Drake. He still hadn’t appeared, still hadn’t shown himself. She let out a small, resigned sigh. Let him be hungry if he wanted. Perhaps he needed space, a moment to cool down. She could wait.

The two arrived at a quaint Korean restaurant just across from their office building. The air was filled with the rich aroma of grilled meat, fermented vegetables, and spices that teased the senses. The cozy ambiance, warm lighting, and gentle chatter created a sense of welcome that instantly put Lucy at ease.

“Hey, Daryl, my friend. You’re treating me? I haven’t gotten my salary yet,” she teased, wiggling her eyebrows playfully.

“No problem, Lucy. Eat whatever you want. Don’t worry about it,” he said, smiling warmly.

Lucy’s eyes widened with excitement. “Are you sure? Nothing can be taken back, right?”

“Absolutely. Eat until you’re full,” he replied, shaking his head at her energy.

She scanned the menu, every dish sounding more enticing than the last. She barely paused before ordering. “Um… we’ll have Ddukbokki, Bibimbap, Bulgogi, Japchae, Sundubu-jjigae, and Hoeddeok,” she said, smiling at the waiter.

Daryl struggled to hold back laughter. “Do you want to add more?”

Lucy smirked, letting him take care of the ordering. “Not really, it feels embarrassing. But if you insist… add ramen, more tteokbokki, sushi, mandu, and mojos. I’m hungry anyway. You’re paying, so… responsibility!” she said jokingly.

The waiter nodded and left, and Daryl turned to her, shaking his head in disbelief.

“I didn’t know you had such a big appetite, my friend. But you hide it well.”

Lucy laughed, swatting him lightly. “What are you talking about? This is nothing. Next time, we’ll try the rest. Food is life, Daryl. Never forget that.”

He chuckled, watching her enthusiasm, before lowering his voice slightly. “You know, I beat Boss to lunch today. Usually, he leaves first, but today… nowhere.”

Lucy nodded thoughtfully. “He probably just needs some space. He’s in one of his moods. That’s fine. Let him cool down.”

Her thoughts drifted again to Drake. She understood him, more than most. But even understanding didn’t ease the ache she felt when he avoided her, when he built walls so high that even she struggled to reach him.

Their conversation took a more serious turn as they waited for their food. Lucy’s voice softened. “Since you’re a guy, Daryl… tell me. What would you do if a woman fell for you completely? Would you accept her, or push her away?”

Daryl paused, thoughtful, then smiled. “For me? I’d be lucky to have someone love me like that. I’d accept her, cherish her. Girls like that are rare. But you… you’re already giving your all. If this were about you, I’d be happy to see the guy you like, your boss... appreciate it. I can see how he looks at you, how he gets jealous when he sees us together.”

Lucy’s heart tightened slightly. Daryl had seen it too. The flickers of emotion, the subtle reactions Drake couldn’t hide completely.

She exhaled slowly. “He’s afraid… afraid of being loved again. But love is about risk. You can’t avoid it forever. No matter how hard life is, you have to face it. He has to face it.”

“Then he’s a coward,” Daryl said bluntly. “Love is about risk, Lucy. It’s about opening yourself up. Once in a lifetime, you need to take that leap. No regrets.”

Lucy nodded quietly. I just hope he learns that before it’s too late.

Their conversation paused as the food arrived. Lucy’s eyes widened in delight. The table was a riot of colors, steaming dishes, and mouthwatering aromas. Her stomach growled audibly.

“For now… let’s eat,” Daryl said, laughing. “We can worry about the rest later.”

Lucy didn’t need to be told twice. She dug in, savoring every bite, laughing at the ridiculousness of her appetite, ignoring Daryl’s warnings to slow down. The hours passed in a blur of flavors, laughter, and light-hearted chatter.

Finally, Lucy leaned back, her stomach pleasantly full. “Wow… this is the best when the food’s free,” she joked, patting her belly.

“You practically finished everything,” Daryl said, shaking his head with amusement.

Lucy grinned mischievously. “You’re too generous. Hope we can do this again soon.”

“Of course. Anytime,” he replied.

Lucy’s mind drifted, the conversation with Daryl taking a sharper turn. “Do you want to help me with my… problem?” she asked, leaning forward slightly.

Daryl raised an eyebrow. “How exactly?”

“I need to make him… reveal his feelings. He’s hiding them, but I know he has them. I just need a push.”

Daryl smiled knowingly. “Ah, jealousy. As a man, seeing someone you care about with another man can make even the coldest heart stir. We’ll play a little game. Consider it… strategic cupids.”

Lucy’s eyes sparkled. This was exactly what she had been thinking. She leaned in, whispering, “I’m in. Let’s make it convincing. Let’s make him realize what he’s risking… and what he could lose.”

Daryl nodded. “Perfect. This will work. He won’t resist for long.”

Lucy’s grin widened, a mix of mischief and determination. Her resolve had never been stronger. She would win.