Days seemed to run together after that date. She couldn’t figure out how time was going so fast. Maybe it was because she truly was enjoying her time. 

One morning, Alexandra arrived at Young Cosmetics’ headquarters, greeted by the scent of fresh flowers and the polished, pristine decor of the corporate offices. It was exactly what she expected from the Young family.

The moment she stepped into the conference room, a graceful, elegantly dressed woman stood up from the long glass table and opened her arms. Her ability to command a room was astonishing.   

“Darling!” The bright woman beamed in English, crossing the room, with every bit of elegance, placing a warm kiss on Alexandra’s cheek. She always greeted her like a daughter. 

“It’s so good to see you again, my dear sweet Alexandra!”

Alexandra smiled, returning the embrace, “You’re right it's been ages Mrs. Young.”

This woman was like a second mother to Alexandra. After her mothers death 11 years ago, she filled the warmth that had once been lost. Young-Mi and her mother, Vivienne, had been friends since they were children. Mi took it very hard when Vivienne died. 

Mrs. Young pulled back, holding Alexandra’s face between her hands for a moment. “You know better than that. You’ve grown into such a beautiful, accomplished woman.”

Alexandra admired, “Thank you, Mrs. Young.”

“And how is your father?”

“He’s doing better than he was. Busy as always. He will be here sometime in the next few weeks.”

“Ahhhh yes, that is just like Charles, never taking a break.” 

Mrs. Young nodded, motioning for them to take their seats, “Alright, let’s discuss how we can incorporate your patches into our product line. Hana told me all about the AI skin patches and I think they might be exactly what we are looking for.”

The discussion flowed effortlessly as they mapped out formulas, textures, and even the target demographics for who they would sell these products to, before the final topic landed on the contract. 

Alexandra even discussed a prototype for an auto-matching foundation in the works. Her hope was to complete the prototype in the next year or two. It was astonishing to see the inner workings of her mind.

“We’d like to invest $2.5 million initially for the prototype and assist in the development of the auto-matching foundation for flawless coverage, you mentioned,” Mrs. Young stated, sliding the agreement across the table.

Alexandra scanned the terms, impressed, “That sounds like a perfect partnership. Our lawyer will look over the fine details and we will get back to you.”

Mrs. Young smiled, “We’re excited about this. It will truly change the Korean beauty market as we know it. But of course, remember you’ll have full creative control.”

If this goes well and they like the prototype and foundation, this could be a $15 million contract! She thought excitedly. 

As they headed out, Hana grabbed Lexi’s arm, “So, what now?”

Alexandra side eyed her with a smile, before saying, “Sleepover?”

Hana gasped, “YES! Absolutely.”

That evening, they sat cross-legged on the floor of Hana’s apartment, surrounded by a variety of  delicious Korean dishes. 

“I don’t think I’ve ever eaten half of these dishes before,” Alexandra admitted, reaching for a plate of tteokbokki. 

Alexandra had no idea how these tiny rice cakes could be so delicious.

“Oh, you’re in for a treat,” Hana’s eyes widened, watching excitedly as Alexandra took a bite.

The heat hit her immediately. She could not handle spicy food well at all.

“Oh. My. Goodness. This is absolutely amazing,” she said, sweating from the spiciness. 

Hana exclaimed, “Told you! But maybe it's a little too spicy. Here, try this!” She pushed a small bite of galbi jjim into her mouth. The short ribs practically melted in her mouth. 

Alexandra let out a soft groan of satisfaction, “This must be what heaven feels like.”

They continued picking at a variety of dishes. It was some of the best food Alexandra had ever eaten. She couldn’t fathom how she had been too busy to ever come to this wonderful country.

“So,” Alexandra started, sipping on a small glass of soju, “tell me about this chef guy.”

Hana froze mid-bite. Panic set in as she tried to figure out what to tell her.

“No, No, No! You tell me about yours with Jae-Yong,” Hana said, changing the subject. 

“Fine,” Alexandra tried to contain her excitement.

“He really went all out for this. He filled my apartment with bouquets of flowers! Jae flew us out on a helicopter, he prepared a wonderful candle lit dinner. Not to mention we ditched the body guards, played arcade games and sang karaoke until the sun came up.”

She paused. 

“He made me feel special. But I’m not sure how genuine he is. He’s an idol for crying out loud. I bet he meets tons of women.”

“Hmmmmm I don’t think he’s that kind of guy but play it one day at a time. It was just one date,” Hana reassured. 

“Now– your turn,”Alexandra remained calm trying to show how interested she truly was in what was going on between them, “You thought I didn’t notice at the restaurant?”

Hana sighed but it was obvious. She couldn’t peel the smile from her face. 

“Fine. His name is Min-Soo, and we’ve been seeing each other for about four months. My mother doesn’t know yet either so keep quiet.”

Alexandra gave a suspicious glance, “That’s sweet. But…” She hesitated before adding, “I’m just concerned.”

Hana asked, “Why?” Her smile was gone. 

Alexandra took a deep breath, “He’s a popular chef. I just want to make sure he’s not using you.”

Hana’s eyes softened from seeing the concern of Alexandra, “That’s so sweet of you to worry. But don’t worry, he’s genuine.”

Alexandra gave her a long look before stating, “If he hurts you, I’ll personally destroy his career.”

Hana laughed, “I believe you. As will I!”

The night continued with more food, more laughs, and endless reminiscing. She had missed the comfort of a friend. For the first time in a long time, Alexandra felt at peace.