In Kang's Main Mansion:
The rain's soft pitter-patter against the window roused Ha-Na from her slumber. She couldn't make out if it was day or night; the sky cloaked in a heavy shroud of clouds, casting everything in a melancholic haze.
"You're awake! Come help me water the plants," her mother's voice broke through the rhythmic drumming of the rain.
Ha-Na stretched, a sense of unease lingering as she joined her mother in the garden.
"I'm really worried about little uncle. Grandpa has never gone easy on him," Ha-Na said with concern etched on her face as she gently watered the plants, knowing the reason behind him getting scolded was because Ji-Soo hided the fact that she has returned, resulting in such a mess.
"For someone who's worried, you slept quite soundly," her mother replied with a teasing lilt, planting new seedlings. "Don't worry, despite what you think, your grandpa loves Ji-Soo just like all of his children," she added, her tone gentle.
Ha-Na's heart clenched at the unexpected sentiment. It was a stark contrast to the family's unspoken rules.
Ji-Soo had been an unplanned child, a late and bittersweet gift. Old Madam Kang had conceived him in her forties, a time when her body was no longer made for the perils of childbirth. The doctors had warned of complications, urging caution, even suggesting an abortion. But she, stubborn and steadfast, chose to bring him into the world. Her choice came at the ultimate price-her life. She died shortly after giving birth, leaving a shattered husband behind.
Old Master Kang, a man who had adored his wife beyond measure, was devastated. Her death turned his heart into a fortress of unrelenting bitterness. He directed his grief and anger at Ji-Soo, the innocent child he blamed for her death. No mistake, however small, was never forgiven. Every time he saw his son, it was a reminder of the life lost, a wound that never healed.
So, why would her mother claim the old man loved his youngest child as much as his other children? Before she could connect the dots, she was forced to break her reverie.
Her mother patting the soil around a newly planted seedling, asked, "I see you didn't unpack your luggage. Are you planning to stay with your new boyfriend?" she enquired, getting the wrong idea.
"You've got it wrong, mother. We're just getting to know each other," Ha-Na said honestly.
Her mother nodded, not pushing further. "So, you're planning to move out?" her mother asked.
"Yes, mother," Ha-Na confirmed.
Jin-Sol knew she couldn't force a grown woman to stay with family, so she didn't pursue a topic that wouldn't lead anywhere.
"Even if you move out, I hope you'll still attend all the family celebrations and come home every weekend to spend time with your family," her mother added.
"Of course, mother..." They chatted for a while longer, the rain providing a soothing backdrop.
As night turned to day, Ha-Na schemed what needed to be done. She called Ha-Min and told him to get Hyun-Jin's schedule. It was Monday, and Hyun-Jin would already be back at work at Wang's Corporation. But this little information was better than nothing, as it wouldn't lead her anywhere if she didn't encounter him soon. The sparks she had ignited might lose their charm if she waited too long to strike.
So she had to be meticulous, calculating, and precise in planning their next encounter.
Kingdom Mall:
Knowing Hyun-Jin would soon be arriving to conduct a brief inspection of the stores in the mall to get a grasp of the situation, Ha-Na and Ha-Min strategically planned their visit to coincide with his.
As Ha-Na and Ha-Min entered the grand Kingdom Mall, their eyes scanned the sea of people and opulent storefronts. The marble floors gleamed under the soft lighting, reflecting the grandeur of the surroundings. The chatter of excited customers filled the space with a lively hum, creating a symphony of luxury and anticipation.
The Kingdom Mall, a beacon of luxury and modernity under Wang's Corporations, buzzed with activity. It was not just a shopping destination but a symbol of affluence and sophistication, the very source of the Wang's Corporation's immense prestige.
Shoppers milled about, their bags brimming with the latest in fashion and technology. The air was filled with the rich aroma of gourmet coffee, blending seamlessly with the subtle fragrances of designer perfumes. High-end stores showcased their newest collections behind gleaming glass windows, drawing the eyes of passersby with their elegant and meticulous displays.
As Ha-Na and Ha-Min strolled through the mall, Ha-Na's gaze darted from store to store, absorbing the latest trends and styles. Each storefront was a visual feast, a testament to modern design and timeless elegance.
They eventually entered Valentino, where the interior was a perfect harmony of sleek modernity and classic refinement. Mannequins dressed in the season's finest greeted them, their poised elegance setting the tone. Rows of designer clothing, meticulously arranged, lined the walls, each piece a statement of luxury and taste.
Ha-Na sifted through the racks, her fingers brushing against the luxurious fabrics that whispered of opulence. She selected a few dresses, each one more stunning than the last.
Her eyes frequently flicked towards the entrance, her anticipation masked by an air of casual interest. She knew Hyun-Jin would be here at any given moment, given that, she knew his schedule.
As if on cue, she spotted Hyun-Jin approaching the store, his stride confident and purposeful as he made his way to speak with the store manager. A small, satisfied smile tugged at the corners of her lips. She stood her ground, waiting until he was close enough to notice her.
When their eyes met, she saw a flicker of recognition and surprise in his gaze. Without hesitation, she walked over to him, her steps measured and composed. The distance between them closed quickly, yet the moment felt deliberately stretched, filled with the anticipation of their encounter.
Without a second delay, she threw her arms around him in a tight embrace. "Honey, you're here. Do you have any idea how long I've been waiting for you?" she exclaimed, her voice laced with both relief and playful reproach.
The store staff and manager around them froze in shock, their eyes widening at the unexpected scene, while Woo-Jin and Ha-Min maintained emotionless faces, as if nothing surprising had happened.
Meanwhile, Hyun-Jin stiffened for a brief moment before relaxing into her hold, his arms encircling her in return. He never expected this from her, and the unexpected warmth of her embrace took him by surprise, forcing him to take a moment to compose himself. Despite his intense longing to see her, he had resolved to wait patiently until she sought him out herself, unwilling to risk raising suspicion by initiating another impulsive encounter too soon.
But now, with her in his arms, all his carefully laid plans crumbled. The intoxicating scent of her hair, the softness of her body against his—it was too much to resist. He tightened his hold, a possessive grip that betrayed the depth of his obsession.
He leaned in a little, his breath warm against her ear as he whispered, "I didn't know we had plans to meet."
She pulled back slightly, confusion knitting her brows. "Oh, really? I thought I texted you already. Let me check," she said, rummaging through her phone with a determined frown. Opening Kakao, she searched for his contact.
"Oops! It seems some gentleman forgot to leave me his number after kissing me," she pouted slightly, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
His eyebrows lifted, a mix of amusement and challenge in his gaze. "You seriously expect me to believe you couldn't find my number when you could track my schedule?"
"Of course not," she retorted, a playful smirk on her lips. "I'm just giving you a second chance to be a gentleman. After all, it's only right if the man seduces the lady."
He shook his head in foolishness, his eyes locked on hers with unwavering intensity. "Well, I'll be damned. I can't believe I almost let you slip away. Little storm, can you save your contact info in my phone?" he implored, extending his phone to her.
She took it, her fingers deftly entering her number. Just as she was about to save it, her breath caught. The name was already there, nestled in his contacts. Her heart pounded, a mix of shock and exhilaration flooding her senses.