[9th September ]
(Han Villa)
"Yaa, Jihyun! You're still not ready?
Hurry up! We're getting late!
Traffic at this hour is already"
Minjoon's shout echoed down the hallway. Mr. Han appeared, holding a luggage.
"Here, put this in the car. I'll bring him"
(Upstairs jihyun's room)
Jihyun sat on his bed, staring at the wedding ring in his hand. He turned it over, then carefully placed it in a small box before sliding it into his pocket.
Then, he picked up a photo of his mother, pressing it to his lips.
"Mom" His voice cracked, soft and trembling.
"I'm going where I've always wanted. I… I won't be coming back. Mom you know I can't stay here anymore. I've never felt comfort in this country always treated like a toy.
But I'm closing all the chapters today."
He paused, tears sliding down his cheeks, and whispered,
"I'm going abroad, leaving everyone behind. I don't know if this is good or bad
I just want to leave. Think of it as running from everything I can't face anymore. But Mom don't worry. Dad's going with me. He'll take care of me. You just rest there."
He wiped his tears, put the photo into his bag, and stood. Just then, Mr. Han knocked gently.
"We're getting late Jihyun-ah."
Jihyun grabbed his things hurriedly.
"I'm coming dad!"
Mr. Han opened the door. Jihyun stepped out, and his father took the luggage.
Before leaving, he glanced once at the family photo on the wall, then nodded.
"Let's go."
(Kang Villa)
Taewon stepped out of his room, finally fully recovered after so many days.
"Ah Taewon-ah, you're already ready for the office "
Mrs. Kang took his hand and guided him to the dining table, placing a tray in front of him.
"Eat," she said softly, starting to feed him.
Yumi, perched nearby, pouted.
"Umma don't you like me anymore?
Always looking after Taewon oppa and the new sibling, Taesung oppa and Taemi unnie?"
Mrs. Kang smiled gently.
"Oh, my dear, mama never forgets you. Come here."
She set Yumi on her lap.
"Taewon is sick, that's why mama is feeding him. And you've grown up now,
so you need to understand."
"But mama, where's Jihyun oppa?
Why can't he take care of Taewon oppa?" Yumi asked innocently.
Taewon's voice cut coldly across the table.
"Yumi there's no Jihyun. No dad anymore. Only me, you, and mom. Remember that."
Mrs. Kang's smile faltered, shocked at the sudden shift in Taewon's tone.
She tried to change the subject.
"Taewon, it's your birthday today. Taemi and Taesung decided on a family dinner"
Taewon shook his head.
"I don't want to go. I'm busy."
"Dear, please" Mrs. Kang placed a hand over his.
"They want to celebrate. We'll meet their partners too. It's been a long time since a proper family dinner."
Taewon nodded reluctantly. "Okay, mom."
"I'm going to the office," he added, heading out.
Mrs. Kang nodded.
"Okay, but come back on time.
Take your medicine."
He only gave a curt nod before leaving.
(At the Airport)
Jihyun's heart raced as he hugged Minjoon tightly.
"Take care of yourself, hyung."
Minjoon hugged him back, voice muffled by emotion.
"Jihyun-ah Don't give dad any trouble Okay, and must come back soon,
'll be waiting for you. You and dad take care of each other."
Minjoon turned to his father, wrapping his arms around him.
"Don't worry, Dad. I'll handle everything here. You two just take care of each other."
Mr. Han placed a hand on Minjoon's shoulder.
"You're my responsible child. I believe in you. That you can do it, but If you ever feel lonely, just call us we'll come."
Minjoon nodded, swallowing hard.
As they turned to leave
After a few steps Jihyun turned back and grabbed Minjoon in a tight hug.
"Hyung, thank you for always supporting me. I'll miss you."
Minjoon laughed, eyes brimming with tears. "You stupid go! Check in, or you'll be late!"
Jihyun pulled away, gave one last glance, and walked toward the gate.
Minjoon sank into the car,put his head resting against the window. Staring blankly.
(Kang group)
Taewon entered the office, and employees immediately greeted him.
"Welcome back, sir"
"Happy birthday, sir!"
He nodded coldly, a faint
"Thank you"
slipping past his lips. Inside, there was no anger, no sadness only a chill emptiness.
He moved to his office silently, shutting the door behind him, untouched by the world outside.