33

JINA POV

We finally arrived at the Han River after a quiet drive. I wasn't sure why Jake brought me here.

This place was always known for its romantic atmosphere, a popular date spot, especially in spring or autumn.

But now, in the middle of winter, it was nearly empty.

The air was crisp, the wind biting, and the river calm beneath the grey sky.

Despite the chill, Jake was still holding my hand. Firmly. Publicly.

I kept glancing around, uneasy.

People were watching us, smiling as if we were a real couple. What if someone took a photo? What if Yurim saw it online?

I tried to let go of his hand, but he only held it tighter.

I sighed quietly, not wanting to cause a scene, so I said nothing and walked with him in silence, letting my thoughts spiral.

Behind us, I could hear whispers.

"See? The rumors were wrong."

"Jake still loves his wife."

"They probably just had a small fight."

"Look, he's such a sweet husband."

Their words stung. I bit my lip and kept walking, pretending I didn't hear them. But inside, questions were clawing at my chest.

Was this all for show?

Was Jake only holding my hand to save face?

Did he bring me here to clear his name, to make himself look good in the public eye?

Was I just a prop?

My chest tightened. My throat burned from holding back tears.

Then I felt his hand tug gently.

"Hey," he said softly, cupping my face.

"What's wrong?"

I stepped back, slipping from his hold.

Without a word, I turned and ran.

I didn't care where I was going, I just needed space.

I ran along the riverside path, my breath sharp in my lungs, until I finally slowed down, heart pounding.

And then he was behind me.

He grabbed my wrist and gently turned me to face him. His hand rested on my shoulder, firm but careful.

"Why are you running away?"

he asked.

I looked up at him, eyes trembling.

"How are you feeling now? Better? Proud?"

My voice cracked.

"You held my hand in public. You acted like you cared. Was it just to fix your image? So everyone would think we're fine? That you're some perfect husband?"

I took a shaky breath and continued.

"Are you using me now? Did you plan this so people would think the rumors were fake? So they'd forgive you and love you again?"

"Then at least warn me next time. I'll act better. I'll play the role of the loving wife if that's what you need."

Tears spilled over. My voice trembled.

"Was any of it real?"

Jake didn't answer. He just stood there, staring at me in silence.

That silence hurt more than anything.

"I guess that's all the answer I need,"

I whispered, and turned away.

But before I could walk off, he stepped forward and pressed a soft kiss to my cheek.

I froze.

Then he pulled me into his arms, wrapping me in a quiet, warm hug. His hand patted my back gently, like he was trying to calm me.

I didn't hug him back.

"What now?" I said bitterly.

"Are you filming your next drama scene?"

"No," he said quietly.

"I just want to hug you."

His arms tightened.

"What if Jinae sees this?"

I asked, barely above a whisper.

"She'll be hurt. You'll hurt her."

He didn't answer. He just held me.

"If you want to hurt someone, hurt me," I said.

"I'm used to it. But don't do this to Yurim. She doesn't deserve it."

Then he asked quietly, "Han Jina, do you love me?"

His question caught me off guard.

I blinked, still in his arms.

"Why?" I murmured.

"Are you going to kill me for it?"

I felt his silent laugh against my shoulder. He didn't let go.

"Then don't stop loving me," he said.

"Just love me."