The Lee Family Villa
That evening, during the grand dinner hosted by the Lee family beside their immense illuminated pool, the atmosphere shimmered with luxury and prestige.
Minji, elegant and glamorous, wore a dress that highlighted her perfect figure. Beside her, Seojun, dressed in a branded suit, had his usual cold gaze. He was accompanied by a beautiful young woman in a high couture gown.
Mr. and Mrs. Lee were also present, seated at the central table, perfectly dressed for the occasion. Other guests mingled around them—powerful business magnates, each accompanied by their children.
That night, the Lee villa was more dazzling than ever. Servants bustled back and forth, bringing out refined dishes while musicians played softly near the pool.
The dinner began with Mr. Lee giving his welcome speech:
— Welcome, my esteemed collaborators. I hope tonight will strengthen our ties and open the way for grand new projects.
After his words, applause echoed around the table, and dinner began amidst polite conversation and laughter.
The Lee Family's Business Plans
Mr. Lee continued discussing his latest plans with the guests.
— I think building a hotel in Busan would be the best move. Don't you agree, Senator?
— Yes, I completely agree, the senator replied. Many of my partners are looking for a high-class vacation spot. It's an excellent idea.
— I agree as well. This is a perfect plan, another businessman added.
Mr. Kang spoke up:
— Mr. Lee, your daughter told me about this free trade zone project. Honestly, she really knows her stuff. Your children truly take after you.
Mr. Lee smiled faintly.
— Oh, thank you, Mr. Kang.
But deep inside, a shadow of sadness crossed his gaze.
Then Mr. Kim spoke:
— By the way, Mr. Lee, my daughter Star keeps asking about your son Joonhyuk. She's so eager to see him. Where is he, anyway?
— Ah, he'll be late. He went out to buy a gift for Star, don't worry, Mr. Lee replied.
He cast a sharp look at Minji, who understood immediately and nodded.
— Excuse me, said Minji, standing up.
— Miss Lee, where are you going? asked a guest.
She looked at her father, who motioned for her to stay.
— Ah, no, don't worry, I'll stay, she replied politely, sitting down again.
Mr. Lee fell deep into thought. Where are you, Joonhyuk…
Daechon Village
Meanwhile, in Daechon, the village was lively that evening.
The dirt streets were lined with small houses made of wood and brick, some with rusted tin roofs, others thatched with straw. Children played under the dim yellow streetlights as shopkeepers closed their stores, greeting neighbors before heading home.
The smell of traditional dishes filled the air, mixed with the damp earthy scent of the nearby river. Fireflies glowed around the trees, adding a magical light to the twilight landscape.
Hana's Home
Hana and her mother's house stood near the riverbank. From the outside, it was a modest little home, with old wooden walls, a dark tin roof, and a small vegetable garden in front. Inside, everything was simple yet clean: a worn rug covered the wooden floor, jars of medicinal herbs sat by the window, and a family portrait hung on the main wall.
Hana and Her Aunt
Inside the small house, Hana was helping her aunt care for her sick mother. Her aunt sat by the bedside, gently pressing warm compresses against her mother's pale forehead.
— Auntie… I think you should go home now. Uncle will be really upset if you're late, Hana said with worry in her voice.
Her aunt smiled softly.
— Don't worry. He knows where I am and he's happy I'm here. Besides, I know you like going down to the river around this time… Go on, get some fresh air.
— Are you sure? Hana asked.
— Yes, go on, her aunt replied with a warm smile.
Hana kissed her aunt's cheek, then placed a gentle kiss on her mother's forehead before stepping outside.
Outside, the evening air was cool and the breeze made the tree leaves dance lightly. Hana walked towards the river, her heart heavy yet soothed by the sound of flowing water. Joonhyuk by the River
What Hana didn't know was that at that very moment, not far from where she walked, a young man dressed in a branded suit stood silently. His black hair fell gently across his forehead. He had taken off his jacket and loosened his tie to breathe more freely.
It was Joonhyuk, the youngest son of the Lee family.
Without knowing it, Hana was walking towards a meeting that would change her fate forever.