In the Hyundai Equus, Lee Boo-jin was still mulling over their earlier encounter.
The Jeonju Lee Clan—a colossal force even her father treated with deference. Their vast network of connections, widespread descendants across the nation, and wealth of unknown magnitude made them a formidable ally. Yet, he'd chosen the worst possible path.
Still, compared to the snotty kid from years ago, he now exuded a rugged masculinity. Not overly bulky, but well-defined. Modern men were trending effeminate—disgusting, in her view. A man like him, though, was refreshing.
"He's really grown up," Lee Boo-jin murmured with a soft smile, a flicker of curiosity about him sparking.
What had happened these past few years to transform that timid, introverted little boy into this?
After collecting rent from the second property, Lee Jin-woo's once-slim wallet was now comfortably padded.
"How can Sunbae afford to live here? She hasn't worked in ages," Lee Joo-bin mused, still fixated on how Hwang Jung-eum could pay such rent.
"The rich folks around here often hire her for stretching exercises."
"Stretching? Like yoga?"
"Yup." Lee Jin-woo nodded.
Yoga, sure—just with a special twist.
He didn't judge his tenant's profession. Earning money through skill, with clear pricing and mutual consent? That was as honest as it got. Far better than scheming under the guise of love.
"Don't you need to get back to your company?" Lee Jin-woo asked, curious why she was still tagging along.
"I finally got out, so I'm gonna have fun!"
Meeting this intriguing, mysterious oppa felt like starring in a K-drama. Lee Joo-bin was eager for the next plot twist—how could she leave now? Besides, she wasn't done having fun!
Itaewon by day was a paradise for young couples and white-collar workers. Packed with brands, gourmet dining, and attractive people, it felt like a dreamworld. When Lee Joo-bin appeared, arm-in-arm with Lee Jin-woo, her radiant smile added an extra layer of charm to the fantasy.
"Oppa, what do you do for work?"
"Jobless bum, scraping by on rent."
"…" Lee Joo-bin was speechless.
Scraping by? With 30 million won a quarter?
What were they, then—beggars?
"Oppa, oppa, there's a new tavern here! Let's try it!"
Lee Jin-woo's lips curled as he glanced at her, confirming her intent. He obliged, heading toward the brewery.
Since she was throwing herself at him, why refuse?
Koreans love their alcohol. Soju tops the list—green-bottled Jinro practically owns the market. Next is makgeolli, its sweet taste popular with women and the elderly. Then come foreign liquors and beer.
The tavern Lee Joo-bin mentioned was a new Korean-style makgeolli bar on the street. Its storefront had a traditional aesthetic, with sunken seating—a trendy design in recent years.
"One pot of makgeolli, a seafood pancake, and a few side dishes. Kamsahamnida!"
The order arrived quickly: a metal pot of makgeolli, a seafood pancake, and delicate sides.
"Cheers!" Lee Joo-bin raised her cloudy makgeolli in a metal bowl, leaning forward to clink with him.
Gulp, gulp~
Downing the sweet, smooth liquor in one go, her eyes crinkled with delight.
She grabbed a piece of pancake, nibbling happily.
Lee Jin-woo picked at the sides with chopsticks, leaving the pancake untouched.
"Oppa, try this—it's so good!" Propping herself on the table, Lee Joo-bin offered him the half-eaten pancake.
He hesitated, then took a big bite.
Her eyes sparkled with anticipation. "Well? Isn't it great? Isn't it?"
He nodded, grunting an affirmative "Mm."
"Ah~" She fed him another piece, bite by bite.
Being served like this was far more satisfying than the food itself.
Gulp, gulp~
The pot emptied quickly. The gentle, sweet makgeolli went down like a soft drink, making it easy to forget its alcohol content.
Lee Joo-bin's head bobbed, and she wobbled to her feet.
Leaning on the table, she plopped beside him, slumping against his side. "Oppa… has anyone told you… you look so… so handsome?"
"Like… a real man… so… so safe."
"I… I think I kinda like you." Her hazy eyes locked on him, a goofy grin spreading as she giggled.
Lee Jin-woo steadied her lolling head, saying calmly, "You're drunk."
"I'm not drunk! I want more! Where's my drink?" She grabbed the metal pot, shaking it.
"Aish, it's gone."
"Hey, another pot!" She waved the empty pot, shouting.
"Stop drinking. You're wasted." Pressing her hand down, Lee Jin-woo told the approaching server, "Bill, please."
The meal cost 12,000 won. He paid and helped her out.
"Oppa, take me home!" Lee Joo-bin purred, nuzzling his chest like a kitten.
The mood was set—leaving her behind would be a crime.
Smack!
"Driver, Namdaemun Market, kamsahamnida!" With the "passed-out" Lee Joo-bin in his arms, he got into a taxi.
Under the driver's knowing smirk, they reached his rental.
She was limp, so Lee Jin-woo scooped her up and strode home.
Bang!
The door slammed shut, and the room's atmosphere heated up.
Her body, still in his arms, grew warmer.
"Still pretending? How long you gonna keep this up?"
Lee Jin-woo stood still, smirking at the beauty, half her face hidden by hair.
Women weren't emotional creatures. Their rationality came at a steeper cost than any known being. But if someone could pay that price, they'd become the most gentle, empathetic creatures, reading your every thought and performing with psychic precision.
Clearly, this version of Lee Jin-woo was among the rare 1% who could.
Lee Joo-bin's lashes fluttered, her eyes opening shyly before snapping shut like a startled deer. "Oppa, do you like a single ponytail or twin tails?"
"How about a bun?" His lips curved into a wicked grin.
Yah!
These reins were slippery—almost got away from him.
The next morning, when he opened his eyes, she was gone.
Picking up the note by the bed, Lee Jin-woo smiled.
Oppa, I'm back at the company. This is my dorm phone—call me, okay? Love you—your Joo-joo.
(End of Chapter)