Episode 14 of "Love Next Door" kicks off with a poignant introspection by Seung-hyo, who reminisces about the fateful accident that scarred him physically, yet etched Seok-ryu's presence indelibly into every fleeting moment of his life's review. Shifting to the present, Seung-hyo and Seok-ryu emerge from the hospital, their bond strengthened by a hidden triumph—Seung-hyo's clandestine submission of Seok-ryu's culinary masterpiece, which unexpectedly secured third place in a prestigious competition.
Meanwhile, the air around Mo-eum's home is thick with opposition as her mother staunchly opposes her relationship with Dan-ho, inadvertently chilling her demeanor towards Yeon-du as well. It transpires that she's even asked Dan-ho to steer clear of her daughter, drawing an emotional line in the sand.
Seung-hyo, on the cusp of a life-altering moment, seeks the wisdom of his colleagues as he prepares to pop the question to Seok-ryu. Parallelly, Mo-eum and Dan-ho confide in their respective loves, Seok-ryu and Seung-hyo, paving the way for a fateful rendezvous in the park that evening. Amidst initial hesitations, the two finally surrender to their feelings, sealing their bond with a tender kiss.
The following dawn brings a surprising revelation for Mi-suk and her husband, who, upon inspecting their rival restaurant, discover that their culinary offerings rival their own. Elsewhere, Seung-hyo becomes Seok-ryu's creative muse, assisting her in filming her maiden recipe tutorial video, a testament to their growing partnership.
That night, Mo-eum engages in a heart-to-heart with her mother, assuring her that her happiness lies with both Yeon-du and Dan-ho, defying her mother's fears about the challenges of raising a special child.
Elsewhere, a life-altering decision looms for Mi-suk and her husband, who opt to retire from their restaurant business, embracing a life of leisure. However, the prospect of an extravagant cruise trip planned by Mi-suk's friends leaves her unimpressed, sparking a tense confrontation with Hye-suk when the latter offers to foot the bill, inadvertently striking a nerve and shattering their friendship.
Yeon-du's unwavering affection for Mo-eum's mother serves as a beacon of warmth amidst the tumultuous events. Just as this tender scene unfolds, Seung-hyo meticulously orchestrates the perfect setting for his grand proposal to Seok-ryu, but fate seems determined to intervene. From a malfunctioning car to a chef's sudden departure for his wife's childbirth, and a clumsy stumble with the proposal cake, every step of the way is met with unexpected hurdles.
Upon their return to Seung-hyo's office, he summons the bravery within himself to tender a heartfelt proposal to Seok-ryu, presenting her with a delicate bracelet as a token of his affection. However, to his dismay, she gently declines him, leaving him crestfallen. The next day, Seung-hyo finds himself mired in melancholy, confiding in Dan-ho about the failed endeavor, his shoulders slouched in defeat.
Meanwhile, Mo-eum's mother, observing her daughter walking arm in arm with Dan-ho and Yeon-du, is struck by the radiant joy etched on Mo-eum's face. This heartwarming sight finally melts her reservations, and she warmly embraces their relationship, extending an invitation for all of them to share a meal together.
Later that evening, Seok-ryu finds herself summoned to retrieve a drunken Seung-hyo from a cozy tent restaurant. As the fog of alcohol dissipates, they delve into the reasons behind her refusal. Seok-ryu confesses her fears of the unknown, yet Seung-hyo, with tenderness and conviction, whispers that life is fleeting and they must seize every moment to be together, cherishing each other's presence.
In a parallel scenario, Mi-suk and Hye-suk, each with their own inebriated companions in tow, stumble upon the tender embrace of Seung-hyo and Seok-ryu. The unexpected encounter fills the air with a poignant blend of surprise and understanding, as the two couples, though separate paths, find themselves united by the bittersweet realities of love and life's fleeting joys.
