Taejun had briefly visited the Philippines 20 years ago with his father. It was when his father bought the land for K Electronics’ subsidiary. His father, who had initially planned to establish a factory here, couldn’t lay the first brick and left the world. So, Taejun didn’t have any special memories here. It was just the last travel destination with his father, leaving unforgettable memories in his mind. Hence, this business trip was not enjoyable for him.

Moreover, what Taejun needed to look into from now on was the local employee’s traffic accident. He could understand his grandfather and aunt’s intentions to get him involved in external activities to build a career. Still, from Taejun’s perspective, this business trip was bitter in various ways.
Well, who would guess what bitter feelings he might be harboring, dredging up memories from 20 years ago? Even if someone happened to find out, it would only result in being treated like a child.

“Oh my, our nephew is here!”

Guided by the staff, as Taejun was on his way to the factory, someone on the opposite side recognized him and called out in a friendly voice. It was his maternal uncle, President Kim Sangdeok.

“Hello.”

Taejun greeted politely.

A question mark formed in his mind. President Kim Sangdeok would soon become the vice-chairman of K Electronics and eventually inherit his grandfather’s position as chairman. It was puzzling that such a distinguished person was concerned about issues in the Philippine subsidiary. On the other hand, the thought crossed his mind that maybe he was being meticulous because he was designated as the next vice-chairman.

“If I knew you were coming all the way here, I would have stayed in Korea.”

Taejun was also thinking the same thing. If President Kim Sangdeok had personally come out, he wouldn’t have come here. Perhaps by now, he would be thinking about where to go with Soeun, filled with expectations.

“Our Seokhwa is putting in a lot of effort to introduce you to the media.”

Even though the journalist hadn’t called, Sangdeok sarcastically remarked about Taejun coming all the way here. It wasn’t particularly surprising, as an aggressive attitude was Sangdeok’s usual demeanor.

“I’m not eager for coverage. I came for work.”

“What are you going to do with that handsome face? You should become a model or something.”

Taejun just showed a refined smile. Sangdeok personally introduced Taejun to his employee.

“Alvero. This guy is Kim Taejun, the Head of K Electronics Service Central Headquarters in Korea. He is the grandson of our chairman. He’s still a novice executive, so please give him special consideration.”

Sangdeok’s words were conveyed to Alvero through the interpreter. Alvero greeted politely.

“Hello. I’m Alvero, the lawyer for the Philippine subsidiary.”

“I’m Kim Taejun from K Electronics Service. I’ve been briefed about what happened to the employees. I’m sorry. I’m sure it’s not easy for you either, Mr. Lawyer.”

When Taejun responded in English to Alvero’s English greeting, Alvero seemed pleased, as if relieved.

“You speak English well!”

“I studied in the U.S. for a long time. I have experience mediating disputes while working on corporate projects for other companies in the U.S.”

“Oh, that’s fortunate. I hope you can bring good ideas to the Philippine subsidiary. Convincing the families is not easy.”

“I hope I can be of help. First, I need to hear the families’ perspectives directly.”

The conversation flowed smoothly. The president, Kim Sangdeok, beside them, had become a mere background screen.

A sunny Saturday noon.

Heewook and Hyunji waited for Hyunji’s parents at the airport.

Heewook, who had even put on a new suit for today, continuously cleared his throat nervously, looking tense unlike his usual self. Seeing Heewook, Hyunji chuckled at his unusual tenseness.
After waiting for about ten minutes, the arrival gate opened, revealing the appearance of a middle-aged couple who looked refined.

“Mom! Dad!”

Hyunji waved her hands loudly. Hyunji’s father, who spotted her, greeted with a wide smile and approached.

“Our daughter!”

In a long time, Hyunji and her father warmly embraced each other. Standing beside them, Hyunji’s mother also patted Hyunji’s back.

“Mom, I missed you.”

After hugging her dad and turning around, Hyunji affectionately embraced her mom.

“If you missed us, you should have contacted us more often.”

Hyunji’s mother scolded while patting Hyunji’s back. Both of them resembled Hyunji in image and seemed cultured, which pleased Heewook. Even amid his nervousness, Heewook felt relieved. He could be certain that this family would elevate his dignity.

Soon, when Hyunji’s father turned his head and looked at Heewook, Heewook greeted.

“Hello, father-in-law, mother-in-law! I’m Yang Heewook.”

“Oh-ho-ho. Nice to meet you. I’m Hyunji’s dad.”

Hyunji’s father laughed heartily at Heewook’s robust greeting.

“Our Hyunji bragged that you are such a good person. Indeed, very refined. Is your capability outstanding as well?”

“It’s probably because Hyunji views me favorably.”

Heewook answered confidently. Since Hyunji’s father’s reaction wasn’t bad, Heewook felt somewhat relieved.

“Sir, I’ve prepared a traditional Korean meal. There’s a restaurant not far from here. Would that be alright?”

“That’s great. I didn’t realize how much I missed Korean food. Did you decide to meet us at that restaurant?”

“Yes. Then, I’ll pick you up in my car. Shall we?”

Heewook confidently led the way.

Mrs. Kim Malhui, who arrived at the restaurant earlier than Heewook and Hyunji, continuously sipped water, her lips becoming parched. The meeting was more nerve-wracking than she thought.

A few days ago, Hyunji had said something to Malhui. It was an earnest request not to mention to Heewook in advance about her father contributing to the house price.

“Please don’t tell Mr. Heewook. I don’t want him to worry or be troubled. If you mention it to Mr. Heewook, he’ll just say he’ll live in a 300-400 million won house because he’s a good son. But I don’t like that. Mom, you don’t like it either. Our son struggling in a small house.”

She meant she didn’t like a house worth 300-400 million won. Malhui wasn’t a fool who couldn’t understand. Malhui understood and nodded, saying, “Right.”

If she added 500 million won, her son-in-law would provide another 500 million won. She had to gather her soul and invest. Moreover, it would be in her son’s name. Although she was clueless about how to come up with the money, Malhui’s eyes gleamed continuously.

“Still, you have a house where you currently live, so you can get a significant loan. You also have savings, so it should be fine, right?”

“That’s right. It’s enough. I have some flexibility.”
“Yes. Then, I’ll trust only mom. After the wedding, I’ll send you on an overseas trip, Mom. So, you need to recover quickly!”

Hyunji playfully persuaded Malhui. It happened just a few days ago.