The glass greenhouse of the Jun Mansion was a sanctuary of tranquility and beauty, shielded from the relentless rain that lashed the rest of the estate. Thick, reinforced glass walls and a domed ceiling enclosed the lush garden within, protecting it from the gray storm outside. Raindrops streamed down the translucent surfaces, creating fluid patterns that distorted the bleak sky beyond. Inside, however, the air was warm and inviting, filled with the fresh scent of damp earth and blooming flowers.
Perfectly trimmed shrubs formed symmetrical paths that led to a small central pond, where golden koi fish swam lazily. Vibrant flowers in shades of red, lilac, and yellow grew in harmonious clusters, their petals glistening under the soft light filtering through the glass. Despite the serenity of the space, the imposing silhouette of the Jun Mansion loomed in the distance, casting a metaphorical shadow over the greenhouse's peace.
Mi-Suk sat on a wooden bench near the pond, her delicate posture reflecting her introspective nature. Her hands rested in her lap, nervously fidgeting with a piece of fabric she had been embroidering. Her dark brown eyes were fixed on the pond's surface, where the koi fish created gentle ripples with their movements.
The sound of firm footsteps echoed on the greenhouse's stone floor, pulling her from her reverie. Bora, her loyal friend and servant, approached carrying a small basket covered with a white cloth. Despite the evident fatigue on her face, her black eyes shone with satisfaction. Her sky-blue hair, tied in a simple bun, stood out against the lush greenery around her.
Bora: "Miss Mi-Suk, I've done it." She carefully placed the basket on the bench beside Mi-Suk.
Mi-Suk looked up, startled. Her previously distracted expression turned attentive, and she blinked as though emerging from a daydream.
Mi-Suk: "What are you talking about, Bora?"
Bora removed the cloth covering the basket, revealing a bouquet of water blossoms. The delicate petals shimmered under the greenhouse's diffused light, still damp with dew.
Bora: "I found Lady Suk's favorite flowers." She adjusted the bouquet in the basket with care, presenting it as though it were a prized treasure.
Mi-Suk's eyes widened, her expression shifting rapidly from surprise to concern. She brought her hands to her face in dismay.
Mi-Suk: "Oh no! How could I forget that today is her memorial day?" Her voice was heavy with guilt.
She lowered her head, her shoulders trembling as shame consumed her.
Mi-Suk: "I'm such a terrible daughter!" she lamented, tears beginning to stream down her cheeks.
Her soft sobs carried a deep sadness, as though the weight of her frustrations and regrets had finally found release. Bora, noticing her friend's distress, knelt beside the bench, ignoring the cold stone beneath her.
Bora: "No, you're not, Miss." She met Mi-Suk's tearful gaze with unwavering determination. "You're a wonderful daughter. The truth is, Mr. Jun and the ladies Ji-Hye and Ji-Mi don't treat you as they should. None of this is your fault."
Mi-Suk lifted her head, her eyes still glistening with tears. Yet, a flicker of gratitude softened her expression, a small flame of comfort ignited by Bora's words.
Mi-Suk: "Thank you, Bora. You always know how to make me feel better."
Bora gently squeezed Mi-Suk's hands, offering a warm smile.
Bora: "That's what I'm here for, Miss."
Silence settled over the greenhouse once more, broken only by the soft sound of water disturbed by the koi. The light streaming through the glass created golden reflections on the damp leaves and petals, transforming the space into a dreamlike haven. Mi-Suk took a deep breath, steadying her emotions, as the greenhouse seemed to shield her, if only briefly, from the shadows looming over her life.
Fifteen Years Earlier
The Jun Mansion's garden had once felt larger, more vibrant, brimming with the joy of Mi-Suk's childhood. The air carried the sweet fragrance of flowers in full bloom, and the lush trees cast dancing shadows over the stone pathways. Butterflies fluttered between the bushes, and the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze was punctuated by the sound of Mi-Suk's bright laughter.
At just five years old, Mi-Suk was a bundle of energy and curiosity. Her small, bare feet darted across the grass, and her tiny hands rummaged through bushes in search of nature's treasures. When she finally found what she was looking for, she let out a squeal of delight.
Mi-Suk: "Mama, look what I found in the garden!" she exclaimed, running toward her mother with a water blossom cradled carefully in her hands.
Suk Kel Jun, seated on a wooden chair beneath a cherry tree's shade, looked up from her embroidery. Her serene features and wise eyes exuded an innate calm. She set her work aside as her daughter approached, brimming with excitement.
Suk Kel Jun: "What have you found, my beautiful girl?"
Mi-Suk opened her hands carefully, presenting the flower as though it were a priceless trophy.
Mi-Suk: "It's a water blossom! Isn't it beautiful?" Her eyes sparkled with enthusiasm, and she bounced on her toes with delight.
Suk Kel Jun chuckled softly, reaching out to stroke her daughter's soft, dark brown hair.
Suk Kel Jun: "They say that whoever finds a water blossom will have a wonderful future."
Mi-Suk: "Oh, Mama, that's amazing!" Mi-Suk's childish laughter rang out, brightening the garden like sunlight breaking through clouds.
Suk pulled her daughter into a warm embrace, wrapping her in a cocoon of love that seemed capable of warding off any harm. For a brief moment, the world was perfect.