As the car rolls to a stop, Ji-hyun gently taps Mei's arm.
"We're here."
Mei's eyes widen as she steps out, her breath catching.
"Oh my God, this house is gorgeous!"
Ji-hyun chuckles modestly.
"Don't flatter me yet. What do you think?"
Mei glances up at the sleek architecture shimmering under the Seoul night lights.
"It's so elegant… so alive."
Cynthia grins knowingly.
"That's just the exterior. Wait till you see the inside."
Mei grabs her luggage and follows them in. Ji-hyun pushes open the door dramatically.
"Now, you can say your wows."
Mei freezes at sight.
"This is magnificent,"
she murmurs.
"I can't believe I'll be staying here."
Ji-hyun bumps her shoulder playfully.
"Told you. Not bad for our 'humble abode'."
Ji-hyun beams.
"It's your home for now. I'm so happy you're here."
Mei smiles back, teasing lightly,
"Still as dramatic as ever, Ji-hyun."
Ji-hyun winks.
"And you're still as blunt as I remember."
They laugh the easy warmth of old friends filling the room until Ji-hyun's voice softens.
"So… how did you finally get away?"
Mei's expression dims.
"He kicked me out. Said I was nothing but a disgrace. I had to stay with my cousin."
Ji-hyun frowns.
"You could've stayed in one of your houses in Osaka."
Mei shakes her head
"Mom asked me to stay with Erika. She had her reasons. In this game death is slowly becoming inevitable."
Ji-hyun says gently.
"At least now you're free from him."
Mei repeats quietly, though her tone is uncertain.
"Free?"
Ji-hyun studies her.
"Does he know you're in Seoul?"
Mei admits
"No. But he'll find out eventually."
Ji-hyun's voice hardens.
"He's cruel beyond words."
Mei touches her arm, smiling faintly.
"Let's not talk about him. That part of my life is over. I'm free now. That's what matters."
Ji-hyun nods but can't resist asking,
"What about your job? I heard your designs won over fifty awards. You are the lead designer!"
Mei sighs.
"I was. Until my father paid my boss to fire me."
Ji-hyun gasps.
"He what?! That's insane!"
Ji-hyun looks away, anger simmering.
"He's a monster."
Mei's eyes glisten, though she forces a calm smile.
"He'll do anything to see me fall."
Ji-hyun reaches for her hand.
"Then we'll make sure you rise instead."
Mei whispers.
"I am done living in his shadow. I want to start over."
Ji-hyun nods.
"Then let's do that. I'll help you. There are top fashion brands here in Seoul. They would kill to have your talent."
Mei's lips curve in gratitude.
"You really are a blessing, Ji-hyun. Thank you."
Ji-hyun smiles.
"No, I am just smart enough to know talent when I see it."
Ji-hyun grins.
" Seoul should get ready. Jasmine Mei Hirai is on her way to shake the fashion world."