In the bustling metropolis of Seoul, "The Trunk" Season 1 Episode 3 dives deeper into the intricate tapestry of its characters' lives, unraveling a complex web of past traumas and present deceptions. The episode kicks off with a poignant flashback to Noh In-ji's (Kim Hye-soo) introduction to the realm of contract marriages. Initially skeptical and viewing marriage as a potential disaster, her perspective undergoes a dramatic transformation upon learning that her first fake husband is terminally ill. His humble wish for companionship in his final days triggers a wave of empathy and complexity within In-ji's character.
In the present day, In-ji confronts Lee Seo-yeon (Kim Hee-ae) over her past as a high school bully, accusing her of pushing one of her victims to the brink of suicide. Seo-yeon's casual dismissiveness towards these grave accusations and her subsequent advice to Jeong-won (Lee Jung-jae) to stay with In-ji, despite her lack of trust, add another layer of mystery to her enigmatic persona. Jeong-won's curiosity about the reasons behind Seo-yeon's suggestion for him to marry his classmate remains unanswered, leaving him to ponder the deeper motivations driving her actions.
In-ji's visit to private investigator Yoo In-yeong reveals her relentless pursuit of her ex-fiancé, Do-ha, who is constantly elusive. In-yeong's probing questions about In-ji's intentions and whether she will confront Do-ha if he is found, bring to light the unresolved issues from her past that continue to shape her present reality.
Seo-yeon's reminder to Jeong-won about the death anniversary of their unborn child is a stark moment of shared sorrow. The flashback to a tumultuous pregnancy and the tragic car accident that claimed the child's life serves as a poignant exploration of the pain that binds Jeong-won and Seo-yeon together. The vinyl record she returns to him is not merely a gift; it is a symbol of their shared history and the enduring love that persists despite their separation.
Jeong-won's squeamish disposition at the hospital and his claustrophobic panic in the elevator find solace in In-ji's serene demeanor. His inquisitiveness about In-ji's emotional detachment is skillfully sidestepped as she proposes a wedding ceremony to cement their contractual obligations. Seo-yeon's frustration with Jeong-won's lack of communication and her yearning for a simple phone call lend her character a humanizing vulnerability.
Yun-a (Kim Bo-ra), in stark contrast to her chaotic household and unsupportive spouse, seeks excitement in her life by befriending In-ji. Her admiration for In-ji's sophistication and her eager anticipation of a more exhilarating future enrich her character's complexity. Jeong-won's dinner with Seo-yeon is fraught with palpable tension, as her reminders of their hospital encounter, the impending wedding, the sonogram, and the record serve as stark reminders of their intertwined past. The three blue pills she hands him symbolize his battle with addiction and represent her cruel gauntlet to test his resolve.
The surreal fake wedding, presided over by Lee Seon, lays bare the terms of their contract. The revelation that the contract can be either extended or permanently terminated based on their actions adds an element of suspense to their relationship. The notable absence of a ring on Jeong-won's finger subtly hints at the imbalance inherent in their arrangement. Their honeymoon, spent engrossed in watching soccer, offers a brief moment of levity. Jeong-won's offer of beer and In-ji's amusement at his skepticism towards the fake marriage system provide a fleeting escape from the intensity surrounding them. His nightmare of drowning and his near-relapse into taking the blue pill are stark reminders of his internal turmoil.
In-ji's return from kayaking and her revelation that she was present during his nightmare underscore her dedication to their contract. Jeong-won's discomfort with the prospect of sharing a bed leads to a scene that is both humorous and insightful, culminating in In-ji's gracious offer to revise the clause. During a drive in In-ji's car, Jeong-won discovers her Milonga recording, offering a glimpse into her past life as a dance instructor. In-ji's suspicion that Seo-yeon is drugging Jeong-won and her subsequent decision to send the pills to a lab for testing clearly illustrate her protective instincts and her deepening attachment to Jeong-won.
Orchestrated by Seo-yeon, the double date becomes a battlefield of subtly hostile remarks and concealed agendas. Yun-a's (Kim Bo-ra) presence and her admiration for In-ji's sophistication are eclipsed by Seo-yeon's overt intimacy with Jeong-won. Ji-o's (Park Hee-soon) irritation with Seo-yeon's behavior, compounded by his recall of a startling incident, escalates the evening's tension.
In-ji stands up for Jeong-won against Seo-yeon's mockery, issuing a stern warning to Seo-yeon about minimizing his pain. This act serves as a clear testament to her unwavering loyalty and deepening understanding of Jeong-won's traumatic past. As the night concludes with Ji-o's departure, Jeong-won and In-ji find solace in each other's shared experiences.
The episode draws to a close with Jeong-won expressing his gratitude to In-ji, culminating in a shared moment of laughter and connection as they dance together. However, the harmony is shattered by Jeong-won's sudden kiss, which Seo-yeon watches with fury through the spycam she has secretly installed in the new chandelier. Seo-yeon's chilling smile at the episode's end serves as a stark reminder of her manipulative prowess and the upcoming twists in their saga.
"The Trunk" Season 1 Episode 3 masterfully delves into the characters' pasts and their ongoing struggles. The seamless blending of flashbacks and current events, coupled with the characters' emotional journeys, creates a gripping narrative that captivates viewers and leaves them eagerly anticipating the next episode.
