Future Me and My Love

The kitchen of The Skill was alive with movement. The scent of sizzling bulgogi, fresh kimchi jjigae, and delicate hobakjuk filled the air. The clatter of pans, the sharp sizzle of oil, and the occasional shouts of the kitchen staff made up the symphony of a busy dinner service.

Gen moved through the kitchen like she owned it—because she did. The Skill was her pride, her passion, her life's work. She was the head chef, the owner, the heart of the place. And tonight, just like every night, she made sure every dish was perfect before it left her kitchen.

But something felt different.

Her usual energy, the teasing remarks she threw at her staff, the playful smirk she always wore—it wasn't quite there.

For the past few days, she had been distracted.

She hadn't sent food to Lee since their last conversation. Four days. No deliveries. No handwritten notes. No excuses to see her.

Not that she didn't want to.

But something big had come up.

A Deal She Couldn't Ignore

Gen leaned against the counter, wiping her hands on a towel as she stared at the email on her phone. The sender: The Future You Group—one of South Korea's biggest luxury hotel chains.

The contract was massive.

A request for a long-term partnership to provide high-end Korean cuisine for their VIP guests. It wasn't just about the money—though the amount offered was impressive—it was about the opportunity. This deal could push The Skill's name into South Korea's fine dining scene.

And Gen had always wanted to expand there.

Seoul wasn't just another business opportunity for her; it was home in her heart.

She had spent years in New York, building her restaurant from nothing, helping struggling students find a place to learn and grow. But deep down, she always knew she wanted to go back to South Korea someday—not just for business, but because her closest friends were there.

And now, she had the perfect chance.

But there was a catch.

The hotel's management requested an in-person meeting before signing the contract.

Normally, she'd send a representative, but this was too important. She wanted to see the place, taste their food, understand the vibe before making a commitment.

So, she decided.

She was going to Seoul.

And maybe, just maybe, she'd find something—or someone—else waiting for her there.

One Last Visit

Before leaving, Gen had one last thing to do.

She wanted to see Lee.

Not to annoy her (well, maybe just a little). But to let her know she wouldn't be bothering her anymore.

Not unless fate brought them together again.

And if that happened?

She wasn't letting Lee go next time.

She smirked to herself as she threw on her jacket, her chef's uniform still underneath. She knew Lee's shift at the hospital ended late, so she waited until the right time before making her move.

Grabbing a bag of sweet red bean-filled hotteok, she made her way toward the hospital, humming to herself.

The Hospital Encounter

The ER was quieter than usual when Gen arrived. The rush had died down, and most of the doctors were finishing up their shifts. She spotted Dr. Kim, Lee's colleague, near the entrance.

"Oh no," Kim sighed dramatically when she saw Gen. "You again?"

Gen grinned. "Missed me?"

"Not even a little." Kim crossed her arms. "What are you doing here? Did you injure yourself again?"

"Nah." Gen shook the bag of hotteok. "Just here to see a certain grumpy doctor."

Kim's eyes widened slightly. "You mean… Lee?"

"Who else?"

Before Kim could respond, a familiar voice cut through the hallway.

"You've got to be kidding me."

Gen turned, already grinning as Lee approached.

Lee looked tired—her hair slightly messy, her white coat unbuttoned at the top. But even exhausted, she was stunning.

"Evening, Doc." Gen tilted her head. "Looking as serious as ever."

Lee narrowed her eyes. "What are you doing here?"

"Relax, I didn't bring you food this time." Gen held up her hands in surrender. "But I did bring these." She lifted the bag. "Hotteok. Fresh and warm. Want some?"

Lee exhaled sharply. "Gen."

"Wow. You actually said my name." Gen smirked. "I feel honored."

Lee crossed her arms. "Why are you here?"

Gen hesitated for a moment before speaking. "I'm leaving for South Korea."

Lee blinked. "What?"

"I got a contract offer from a hotel in Seoul. A big one." Gen shrugged. "I have to go there to finalize the deal. Thought I'd drop by and let you know I won't be around to 'bother' you anymore."

Lee studied her for a long moment. Her expression unreadable.

Then, she simply said, "Good."

Gen laughed. "Wow. No hesitation, huh?"

"I told you before," Lee said firmly. "I don't like you, and I'm not into women."

Gen stepped closer, leaning in just enough to make Lee shift uncomfortably. "And if you were?"

Lee tensed. "What?"

"If you were into women…" Gen's voice was low, teasing. "Would you like me then?"

Lee scoffed. "If I were, I still wouldn't like you."

Gen grinned. "Ouch. Harsh."

"I'm serious, Gen." Lee sighed. "You're persistent, but this isn't a game. I don't feel that way about you."

Gen held up her hands. "Alright, alright. No pressure, Doc." She took a step back, offering Lee the bag of hotteok again. "Take these, at least. You look like you need something sweet."

Lee hesitated, then finally took the bag.

"…Thanks."

Gen winked. "See? I'm not that bad."

Lee rolled her eyes but didn't respond.

Gen took a deep breath, stuffing her hands into her pockets. "Well, I should go. Flight's in the morning."

Lee didn't say anything, just looked at her with that unreadable expression again.

Gen turned to leave but paused at the doorway.

"If we meet again, Doc," she said with a small smile, "I won't back down next time."

Lee didn't answer.

But as Gen walked away, she swore she saw the slightest hint of a smile on Lee's face.

What's Next?

• Gen is heading to Seoul! But what will happen when she unknowingly steps into Lee's family business?

• Will she meet Nam's parents again?

• And will fate bring her and Lee together once more?