The Jun Mansion's greenhouse was a sanctuary of serenity, a place where time seemed to slow. The glass ceiling, now gleaming with the pale glow of the post-rain sky, allowed a soft light to filter through, illuminating the glistening leaves and vibrant petals of the flowers. The fresh scent of damp earth mingled with the delicate perfume of the plants, creating an atmosphere that felt untouched by the troubles of the outside world.
Mi-Suk sat on a wooden bench near the small pond at the center of the greenhouse. The crystal-clear water reflected the gray clouds still lingering in the sky, casting a scene of calm melancholy. Her hands rested in her lap, her fingers absently fidgeting with the hem of her hanbok, while her gaze remained fixed on the pond's surface. Her thoughts were distant, lost in memories of happier times and the shadows of the tragedy that had shaped her life.
The soft sound of footsteps echoed across the stone floor, bringing with it an energy that contrasted with the stillness of the greenhouse. Bora approached, her cheerful smile seeming to brighten the space. Her sky-blue hair was tied in a simple bun, and her dark eyes sparkled with a mix of determination and affection.
Bora: "Miss Mi-Suk, what were you thinking about?"
Her voice was filled with enthusiasm as she drew closer to the bench.
Mi-Suk looked up, her dark brown eyes still heavy with a quiet melancholy. For a moment, she hesitated, as if reluctant to disturb the lightness Bora carried with her.
Mi-Suk: "I was thinking about the last day I saw my father alive."
Her voice was soft, tinged with sorrow.
Bora's brow furrowed as she leaned forward slightly, as if to bridge the emotional gap between them. Her smile faded momentarily, replaced by a look of genuine concern.
Bora: "Don't be sad, Miss."
Her voice was gentle yet firm, an attempt to ease the weight of Mi-Suk's words.
Mi-Suk took a deep breath, straightening on the bench. Her gaze returned to the pond, but there was a newfound determination in her posture.
Mi-Suk: "Bora, no matter what happens, I will do everything I can to be a good daughter and honor my parents' memory."
Her voice gained a steadiness that belied the pain reflected in her eyes.
Bora's smile returned, this time brighter and full of pride. She placed her hands on her hips, her confident stance seeming to embolden Mi-Suk.
Bora: "That's right, Miss. You're strong and courageous, and I know you'll face any challenge with dignity."
Mi-Suk sighed deeply, her gaze once again fixed on the water, where the ripples seemed to echo her frustration.
Mi-Suk: "Even now, Uncle Ji-Ho hasn't found my father's killer. And my mother is still unwell."
Her voice carried a mix of bitterness and sadness, the words a constant reminder of her helplessness.
Bora stepped closer, placing a comforting hand on Mi-Suk's shoulder. The gesture was simple but carried a profound reassurance.
Bora: "But I'm certain Lady Suk will recover."
Her voice was filled with conviction.
Mi-Suk turned to look at Bora, a faint spark of hope flickering in her eyes.
Mi-Suk: "I hope so, Bora."
She allowed herself a weak but sincere smile.
Bora leaned in slightly, her smile growing as she gave Mi-Suk's shoulder a gentle squeeze.
Bora: "Don't worry, Miss Mi-Suk. Everything will get better."
Mi-Suk took Bora's hand in hers, squeezing it in gratitude as if to convey how much her words meant.
Mi-Suk: "Bora, you're more than a servant to me. You're my best friend, my confidante. I don't know what I'd do without you."
Bora blinked quickly, as though holding back tears. Her smile remained, but a deep emotion shone in her dark eyes.
Bora: "Miss, you're like a sister to me. I'm here to support you in everything."
The two shared a heartfelt smile, a moment of connection that seemed to lift some of the burden from Mi-Suk's heart.
Mi-Suk rose slowly, adjusting her hanbok with a graceful, deliberate motion. Her posture was straighter now, as though her conversation with Bora had renewed her resolve.
Mi-Suk: "Thank you, Bora. But now, let's go see my mother."
Bora nodded eagerly, her cheerful smile returning as she moved to follow Mi-Suk.
Bora: "Yes, Miss Mi-Suk."
Together, they walked toward the mansion, their footsteps echoing softly on the greenhouse's stone floor. Outside, the sky was beginning to clear, with rays of sunlight breaking through the gray clouds. It was as though the world itself mirrored Mi-Suk's renewed determination, a reminder that even after the storm, light always returned.
The room was simple yet exuded a welcoming warmth that contrasted with the mansion's otherwise cold atmosphere. Curtains of soft cream fabric swayed gently with the breeze from a partially open window, carrying in the fresh scent of the recent rain. The golden light of late afternoon streamed through the glass, illuminating the polished dark wood furniture that gave the space its understated elegance.
At the center of the room was a canopy bed, its delicate curtains draped to the sides. Suk Kel Jun sat propped against a pile of pillows, wrapped in soft blankets. Her short, graying hair was tied in a loose bun, and her pale face seemed even more fragile in the warm glow of the room. Yet her dark brown eyes sparkled with affection as she saw Mi-Suk enter, her presence filling the space with a quiet vitality.
Suk Kel Jun: "Oh, my daughter, how are you?"