Gradually, the day darkened.

The thatched house, vacated by Bae Young-gam and his followers, was in disarray as if a typhoon had swept through. The overturned jangdokdae had even shattered, and household items were scattered in the yard.

Ms. Park seemed dazed for a while, but soon regained her composure. After Geon disappeared following Bae Young-gam’s departure, and Yeon-ho fainted and fell into a deep sleep, Yeon-woo, Bi-yeong, and Ms. Park started to clean up the messy thatched house.

When they almost finished cleaning, the scene of the thatched house caught Bi-yeong’s eyes.

Before Yeon-woo enlisted in the Gwangho Army division, Bi-yeong had visited the house occasionally to give rice or meat. But it was always limited to the entrance; examining it closely and entering the yard were firsts for her.

The window frames had holes, making it difficult to block the cold wind, and the thatched house looked old and seemed like it could collapse at any moment.

After Yeon-woo’s father passed away, she had heard rumors about the family’s decline. Although Bi-yeong knew Yeon-woo had a difficult situation, she couldn’t actively help her since Yeon-woo was reluctant to show her hardships to others.

Thus, Bi-yeong discreetly assisted her within the limits that wouldn’t burden Yeon-woo too much. However, she never imagined that Yeon-woo, who always maintained a bright demeanor no matter what, would be living in such dire circumstances.

Amidst all this, family members were thinking of using Yeon-woo and even contemplating selling her to the old Young-gam. Now, Bi-yeong understood the reason why Yeon-woo endured and survived in the Gwangho Army, where only men were allowed.

Understanding that it was Yeon-woo’s desperate struggle to survive, despite her shortcomings, left Bi-yeong feeling self-blame.

She felt a sense of guilt for not protecting Yeon-woo during such harsh times.

At that moment, Ms. Park approached Bi-yeong and bowed.

“Thank you for your help.”

“No, I just did what needed to be done.”

As Ms. Park raised her head and faced Bi-yeong, a vague memory surfaced in Ms. Park’s mind.

“By any chance… are you Ryu Bi-yeong, the illegitimate son of Jwajangdang?”

“Yes, that’s correct.”

“Oh, my!”

A glint appeared in Ms. Park’s eyes.

Seeing Bi-yeong as an adult was the first time since the last time Ms. Park had seen her.

“You’ve grown up so well! When did you become so big?”

“I came to my hometown this year after taking the state examination.”

“And did you pass?”

“Yes. I’m currently a training officer in the Gwangho Army division.”

“Isn’t that the same division as Yeon-woo?”

“Yes, that’s right.”

“Oh my!”

Hearing the news about Bi-yeong, Ms. Park started to act excited.

“Have you gotten married?”

“Not yet.”

“Do you have a woman you’re courting?”

In the midst of Ms. Park’s endless personal questions, Yeon-woo, who couldn’t stand it, intervened.

“Mother, please stop. Isn’t this asking too much about personal matters?”
“Nice to see you after a long time. I’m grateful for your help. Would you like to at least have a meal, even if it’s just a bowl of noodles?”

Knowing that staying here could potentially harm Bi-yeong due to Ms. Park’s scheming, Yeon-woo prepared to lead her out, holding onto Ms. Park’s arm.

“It’s okay! Since the business is done, I’ll leave now.”

When Yeon-woo and Bi-yeong went outside through the gate, Ms. Park followed them with hurried steps.

“Hong Yeon-woo!”

“What’s the matter?”

Approaching them while catching her breath, Ms. Park grabbed Yeon-woo’s arm and pulled her away a bit, away from Bi-yeong.

What unbelievable story was she trying to tell this time? Anxious thoughts began to rise in Yeon-woo’s mind.

At that moment, Ms. Park brought up words that Yeon-woo had never expected.

“I’m sorry, Yeon-woo. I had thought of sending you away to the old Young-gam, who’s completely out of touch. I must have lost my mind.”

What change had occurred in Ms. Park’s feelings?

Had she finally started to understand Yeon-woo’s heart?

With Ms. Park’s unexpected reaction, Yeon-woo’s body trembled.

Ms. Park continued speaking.

“Having such a good man by your side, Young-gam won’t even consider you. Bi-yeong is a great person, isn’t he? Good character, good family, good personality—everything is perfect. With such a person, your future will undoubtedly be bright.”

Unexpectedly, Yeon-woo felt her strength drain away.

It was my mistake to expect a sincere apology from Ms. Park.

“If you’ve come all the way to help, it’s clear you have a liking for her. Opportunities like this don’t come easily. Seize it before other women get ahead of you.”

“……Uncle and I don’t have that kind of relationship. We have a good sibling relationship.”

“What nonsense about siblings when not a drop of the same blood is mixed?!”

Could there be no conversation with her unless it was about marriage?

Ms. Park’s mind seemed entirely occupied with marriage.

“At first, the man’s impression was nothing extraordinary. A marriage with Bi-yeong would be a hundred times better than marrying such a man.”