Morning Light and Little Joys
Sunlight poured through the wide kitchen windows, catching the steam rising from a pot of porridge on the stove. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the faint scent of toast and scrambled eggs.
Soojin, her hand resting lightly on her growing belly, carefully stirred the porridge. Min Hyun leaned against the counter, watching her with a soft smile, one hand brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear.
"You're up early," she said, glancing at him with a playful smile.
"I couldn't sleep," he replied, eyes following her movements. "You… you look really beautiful this morning."
Soojin's cheeks warmed. "Stop teasing."
The kitchen was filled with the golden light of morning, steam rising from bowls of porridge and cups of tea. Soojin carefully stirred her breakfast while Min Hyun poured her a cup of tea.
"You're taking it slow this morning," Min Hyun said with a playful grin. "The baby won't complain, will they?"
Soojin laughed softly, resting a hand on her belly. "He—or she—already kicked twice. I think they're impatient for breakfast too."
Min Hyun's mother chimed in, bustling around the table. "Eat while it's hot! And Min Hyun, sit down! Don't make your wife dizzy standing over her."
Min Hyun chuckled and guided Soojin to her chair, helping her settle comfortably. "Here, sit. No sudden movements, okay?"
Soojin smiled warmly. "Thank you… you always care so much."
His father, reading the newspaper but glancing over the rim of his glasses, added softly, "You both look… content. That's all a father wants."
Min Hyun set a plate of scrambled eggs and toast in front of her. "How are you feeling today?"
"Good," Soojin replied. "The baby kicked a few times already. I think they like breakfast too."
His mother smiled brightly. "Of course! My grandchild has good taste already. Eat your porridge, don't waste it."
Min Hyun leaned back slightly, stretching his arms. "I have a meeting at the office later. My cousin called—he wants to collaborate on a new project. Should be interesting."
Soojin's eyes sparkled. "That's great! I'll miss you today, but… go show them what you've built."
His father raised an eyebrow. "Your cousin? From the family branch in Busan, right?"
"Yes, sir. He's got some fresh ideas, wants to join forces for distribution. I'll hear him out."
Soojin leaned back in her chair, sipping her tea. "And what about the rest of you? Any plans?"
Min Hyun's mother smiled. "We're thinking of visiting the orphanage and the old-age home this afternoon. Bringing some food, warm blankets, and essentials. A little giving back for the start of the year."
"Do you need help preparing?" Soojin asked.
"No, you need to rest, baby," his mother said gently, placing a hand on Soojin's. "You've done enough already. Your father and I will manage everything. But I'll tell you stories when we get back."
Min Hyun's father nodded. "It's important for you two to have quiet mornings together too."
Min Hyun chuckled, reaching across the table to squeeze Soojin's hand. "See? Everyone's taking care of you. You don't have to do anything strenuous."
Soojin smiled. "I know… but I love hearing about what everyone's doing. It makes me feel like part of the team."
His mother poured herself some tea. "How are you feeling in general? Any morning sickness left?"
Soojin shook her head. "No, mostly fine now. Just tired if I walk too much. And the baby kicks a lot in the evenings."
Min Hyun's father leaned forward slightly. "And you, Min Hyun? Stress from work?"
He shook his head with a soft smile. "No, the company's steady now. The team handles most operations. Today will be easy—just the meeting. Nothing I can't manage."
"Good," his father said. "We don't need another late-night panic like before."
His mother laughed, "Don't forget breakfast! Soojin, have another bite, and Min Hyun, help your wife finish hers."
Soojin giggled, nibbling her toast. "I'll try. I don't want the baby grumbling."
Min Hyun leaned close, brushing her hair behind her ear. "Our little one already has high standards."
Soojin laughed softly, leaning into his warmth. "And you've spoiled them already, father-to-be."
His mother shook her head with mock exasperation. "Just wait. When the baby arrives, you'll see who really rules the house."
Min Hyun grinned. "I'll take the challenge."
Soojin's eyes sparkled. "I can't wait to meet them… our little family."
His father's gaze softened, his voice quieter but filled with warmth. "You've grown into a family, both of you. You've earned this peace."
Min Hyun glanced around the table, feeling the soft hum of happiness—the morning sunlight, the gentle teasing, the love and care surrounding them.
Soojin rested her head lightly against his shoulder. "I love mornings like this. Simple, warm… full of people who care."
Min Hyun pressed a kiss to her temple. "We'll have many more mornings like this. And we'll face the rest together, every day."
The small kitchen felt brighter, warmer, and fuller than any grand room in Seoul. For now, they had breakfast, laughter, and each other—and that was more than enough.
Giving Back Together
The car hummed softly as Min Hyun drove, Soojin beside him with a small tote of blankets and snacks. His parents sat in the back, quietly chatting about the day ahead.
"You remember the orphanage rules?" his mother asked. "No running, no shouting… keep it calm for the little ones. We took you her only because you insisted so much. Even Min Hyun took day off for you."
Soojin laughed softly. "I've got this. The baby will enjoy seeing them too."
Min Hyun glanced at her, smiling. "You're glowing today. The morning must've been good."
"It was," she said, rubbing her belly lightly. "We have such a nice little family now."
His father nodded from the backseat. "And you're both responsible enough to teach kindness by example. That counts more than any lecture."
When they arrived at the orphanage, the children ran to greet them, eyes wide with excitement. Min Hyun's mother handed out blankets while Soojin joined the kids, helping them open snack boxes.
One little boy tugged at her sleeve. "Aunty, is the baby in your tummy like me?"
Soojin chuckled. "Yes, and soon, the baby will meet all of you!"
Min Hyun handed out small notebooks and pencils. "These are for drawing, for stories, for anything you want."
"Thank you, uncle!" the children chorused, and Min Hyun's chest tightened with quiet pride.
After the orphanage, they drove to the old-age home. The elderly residents greeted them warmly, some teary-eyed. Min Hyun's father helped carry gift baskets of food and essentials, while Min Hyun assisted Soojin in distributing blankets.
"How's your back today, Soojin?" his mother asked gently.
"I'm fine," she said, smiling. "The baby kicks when I bend too much, but I'm careful."
Min Hyun leaned closer, resting a hand lightly on her arm. "I'm glad you're okay. Don't overdo it."
An old lady grabbed Soojin's hand. "You're going to be a wonderful mother. I can see it in your face."
Soojin blushed. "Thank you… that means a lot."
Min Hyun chuckled softly. "See? Already spreading happiness."
Later, sitting with tea brought by the staff, the family talked about small daily things—Min Hyun's meeting, Soojin's morning classes, minor household chores—all while exchanging smiles, teasing, and caring words.
His mother looked at them, warmth shining in her eyes. "You two make a good team. Not just for each other, but for everyone around you."
Soojin reached for Min Hyun's hand. "We've come a long way. And we still have a long way to go, but… together, I think we can manage anything."
Min Hyun squeezed her hand. "We already have. Today just reminds me of that."
As they left, children waved, elderly residents called out blessings, and the car was filled with laughter and chatter.
Back in the car, Soojin rested her head against Min Hyun's shoulder. "I love days like this."
"Me too," he said quietly, glancing at his parents in the back. "It feels… right. Peaceful. Full."
His father smiled faintly, and his mother nodded. "That's family. That's life."
And for the first time in a long time, Min Hyun felt completely content—his wife, their future child, and the warmth of family all around him.
A New Life
It was a quiet afternoon when Soojin winced sharply, clutching her belly.
"Ah… it hurts," she whispered.
Her mother-in-law immediately took her arm. "Soojin, the hospital! Now!"
Minutes later, the cries of a newborn filled the room.
"He's here!" the nurse announced, placing the tiny baby in Min Hyun's arms.
Min Hyun stared, overwhelmed. The baby's little fists curled around his fingers, fragile and perfect. Soojin, exhausted, leaned against him, tears streaming.
"Our… our son…" she murmured, voice trembling.
Soojin's parents rushed in, eyes wide with joy. "He's beautiful," her mother whispered. Her father nodded, smiling through tears.
Min Hyun's parents stood close, pride and relief shining in their faces. "You've done well, son," his father said softly.
They all watched quietly, hearts full, as the tiny life in Min Hyun's arms let out a small, innocent cry.
Finally, Soojin looked up, still weak but radiant. "He needs a name," she whispered.
Min Hyun smiled through tears, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Yes… Min Yun Ki."
The little family huddled together, hearts overflowing. In that moment, after years of struggle, hope, and love, everything was complete.
After 4 years....
The morning sun streamed gently through the large living room windows, casting warm light over the family. Yun Ki, now four, lay sprawled on the soft rug, little hands resting on his chest, eyes half-closed as he watched dust motes dance in the sunbeams. He barely moved, perfectly content in his quiet world, while Soojin crouched beside him, brushing a stray lock of hair from his forehead.
"You're growing so strong and beautiful, my little one," she whispered, smiling down at him.
Nearby, Soojin's mother and Min Hyun's mother sipped their tea, chatting softly. "He's just like his father," Soojin's mother said with a chuckle. "Quiet, but thoughtful."
Min Hyun's mother nodded. "Yes, but he has your gentleness, Soojin-ah. He'll grow into a fine young boy."
Soojin glanced up, a playful sparkle in her eyes. "I still wish for a daughter someday… someone who'll be playful and jump around everywhere. Nothing extraordinary, just good at heart. I'd spoil her like a little princess."
She glanced at Soojin, a teasing warmth in her eyes. "You know… you're strong enough now. You could have another baby if you want. We'll help you with everything."
Soojin laughed softly, brushing a hand across her cheek. "Another one…? You really think it's a good time?"
"Absolutely," Soojin's mother said, reaching out to squeeze her hand. "Yun Ki is growing beautifully, and we'll guide you through it. You don't have to worry about anything."
Soojin glanced at Min Hyun, who leaned down to ruffle Yun Ki's hair. "What do you think, love?"
He smiled warmly, brushing Soojin's hand with his thumb. "If you're ready, then yes. We'll do it together… just like everything else."
Soojin rested her head briefly against his arm, her heart full. "Then… maybe one day, we'll have a little daughter too."
Prologue Closing — Fortune Turns ( 6 Years Forward)
The morning sunlight spilled over the grand home as Min Hyun watched his children bustle around the breakfast table. Yun Ki, ten, polished and focused even at the table, carefully arranging his books and notes beside his plate. Yuki, five, zipped around like a whirlwind, occasionally stopping to steal a bite of her brother's toast.
"Yun Ki, did you finish your science project for school?" Soojin asked, pouring tea.
"I did, Eomma. Mr. Han said it's one of the best in the grade," Yun Ki replied calmly, glancing up from his notebook. "I just need to double-check the calculations before class."
Soojin smiled. "You're amazing, Yun Ki. Always so responsible."
"Not amazing," he said modestly, eyes bright. "Just… careful."
Yuki, meanwhile, had climbed onto a chair, waving a spoon in the air. "Mama! Mama! Look at me, I can spin like a ballerina!"
"Yuki!" Min Hyun's mother groaned, rushing over. "Careful, or you'll fall!"
"Don't worry, Ajumma, I'm fine!" Yuki squealed, twirling anyway.
"It takes three of us to keep track of her," Soojin laughed, shaking her head. "Between school, play, and her endless energy, I don't know how we survive."
"Two," Min Hyun said, smirking as he scooped her onto his lap. "I've got this covered."
"You!" Yuki pointed at him, giggling. "You can't stop me spinning!"
"Watch me," he said, spinning her gently until she shrieked with laughter.
After breakfast, the children split—Yun Ki to school and Yuki to her preschool program. Min Hyun walked Yun Ki to the car, adjusting his tie in the reflection of the windshield.
"Papa, today's math test is tough," Yun Ki said quietly. "But I think I can handle it. And tomorrow is the soccer finals."
"You'll do fine," Min Hyun assured him, ruffling his hair. "You've worked hard. Just remember to breathe."
Yun Ki nodded, a small smile breaking through his serious demeanor. "I will, Papa."
Meanwhile, Yuki darted around the yard, barely catching a breath between her squeals. "Mama! Look! I can jump over puddles! I'm super fast!"
Soojin laughed, following her like a shadow. "Yuki-ah, slow down! You'll fall in the mud again."
"Papa! Papa!" Yuki called, spotting Min Hyun heading to his office. "Come see me! Watch me!"
"I'm going, I'm going," he called back, smiling despite the chaos. "But be careful!"
By midday, Yun Ki's school day was a flurry of excellence. He presented his science project with precision, answered questions confidently, and scored high in his math test. In sports, his coach clapped proudly. "Yun Ki, you're doing brilliantly! Your footwork is as sharp as your mind!"
Back home, Yuki had exhausted three caregivers, but she had behaved well at her own level, sharing toys and following simple instructions. Every weekend, the children visited the local orphanage. Yun Ki helped organize games and read stories to younger kids, while Yuki ran from crib to crib, squealing, hugging tiny hands, and making everyone laugh.
"Yuki," Soojin whispered one afternoon at the orphanage, "you don't understand much, but see how happy you make them?"
Yuki blinked, then smiled. "I love babies!"
"Good girl," Min Hyun said, lifting her. "You're kind, even if you don't know why."
On the drive home, Yun Ki's voice broke the hum of the engine. "Papa, one day I want to build something big. Something that helps people. Just like we help the orphanage."
"You will, son," Min Hyun said quietly, feeling the weight and pride of a decade of work. "I have no doubt about that."
At the house, the family gathered for dinner. Soojin asked, "How was your day, Yun Ki? Soccer?"
"We won, Eomma! And I got the highest score in math!" Yun Ki said, sitting up straight.
"And Yuki?" Min Hyun asked, turning to his daughter.
"I painted!" she said proudly, holding up a smudged sheet. "And I fed the babies cookies!"
"See?" Soojin said, exchanging a look with her mother. "Even small, she's already learning kindness."
Soojin's mother smiled. "Soojin, you've built a wonderful family. Yun Ki is wise beyond his years, and Yuki… she's lively and good at heart."
Min Hyun's mother added, "You two have enough love and patience to raise them well. And when you're ready… another little one would be welcome. We'll help."
Soojin nodded, smiling. "We'll see. For now, let's enjoy these moments."
Min Hyun reached over, squeezing her hand. "We're doing well. Life's… perfect, for now."
But even in that peaceful evening, Min Hyun's mind flickered to business—his cousin's hidden dealings and past warnings. The laughter of Yun Ki and Yuki echoed through the home, bright and innocent, contrasting sharply with the faint unease he couldn't shake.
"Papa, read me a story!" Yuki begged, clinging to his arm.
"Of course," he said, lifting her onto his lap. Yun Ki sat beside him, ready to listen too.
For a moment, everything felt right—home, family, love—but Min Hyun knew that the calm was fragile. One misstep, one hidden truth, could unravel it all.
Yet tonight, he chose to ignore it, letting the warmth of his children's laughter fill the room, and the soft murmur of conversation carry them into the quiet of the evening.
For now, the family thrived—together, lively, ambitious, and full of life.
Betrayal Revealed — Min Seok
The office was quiet, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows across polished floors. Min Hyun scanned the latest financial reports, noting the steady profits and smooth operations.
Then Min Seok entered, face pale, avoiding eye contact.
"Hyun… we need to talk," he said, voice tight.
Min Hyun didn't look up. "About what?"
Min Seok swallowed hard. "It's… the overseas investment. The deal with the suppliers… it went wrong."
Min Hyun raised an eyebrow. "Went wrong? How wrong?"
Jihoon's replacement, Min Seok, shifted uncomfortably. "I thought I could manage it myself… I didn't tell you because I… I thought if you knew, you'd stop me. I didn't want the company to fail, so I hid it. But now… it's out of control."
Min Hyun's hands clenched. "You hid it from me? All this time? The company's lifeline, and you decided to handle it alone?"
"I… I panicked. I wanted to protect you, to protect the business. I thought I could fix it before you found out," Min Seok stammered.
Min Hyun slammed the papers down. "And now? Now the clients are pulling out, debts are rising… and our entire foundation is collapsing. You've ruined everything!"
Min Seok stepped back, guilt etched on his face. "I… I didn't mean for this to happen. I thought I was helping…"
Min Hyun's gaze hardened. "Helping? By betraying me? By hiding the truth?"
"I… I'm sorry, Hyun. I'll… I'll leave. I can't face this," Min Seok whispered, turning toward the door.
Min Hyun shook his head, voice low and cutting. "Go. You've done enough damage. Leave, and never come back."
As the office door clicked shut, Min Hyun sank into his chair, staring at the now-empty accounts. The empire he had built, the years of hard work, and the security he had fought so hard to create—all crumbled in a single act of betrayal.
Flashback — After Marriage
Min Hyun sat alone in his study, staring at the ledger on his desk, his mind drifting back.
"Min Hyun-ah, you should see this," Soojin's father had said shortly after their wedding, smiling warmly but with a hint of pride that only a patriarch could have.
"What is it, Father?" Min Hyun had asked cautiously.
"Everything," Mr. Kang replied, leaning back in his chair. "I've transferred the savings into Soojin's name. All assets, accounts, investments—everything. And I'm moving to Daegu. It's time I start living my dream."
Min Hyun had frowned. "You mean leaving Seoul… the company… everything?"
"Yes. I've always wanted a farmhouse there, Min Hyun-ah. Quiet life, fields, fresh air. I have my part of savings which I need and rest of the property will be handled by you and Soojin."
Min Hyun had glanced at Soojin, who was quietly observing. "Soojin… you agreed to this?"
Soojin had nodded, softly. "I did. Father's dream… he's worked for this all his life. And our companies… merging them under my name ensures continuity. Everything is transparent, and it will protect our family's interests."
"Merged under your name?" Min Hyun asked, brows knitting.
"Yes," Soojin's father said, tone firm. "Your companies, my companies, all joined legally. You both will manage operations together. But legally, Soojin is the point of authority. It's for security, Min Hyun. I trust you both, but the law must protect her and the children first."
Min Hyun ran a hand through his hair, feeling the weight of the responsibility. "And you're sure about this… financially? There won't be issues?"
"I've taken care of it," Mr. Kang replied. "I calculated every risk. Our family's wealth, our employees, our legacy—it's all accounted for. Now, I can finally go to Daegu, build my farmhouse, live the life I've dreamed of without worrying about Seoul every day."
Soojin reached out, touching Min Hyun's arm gently. "You've always worked to protect the family, Min Hyun. This… gives us security and freedom."
"Freedom…" he echoed, looking at the ledgers, seeing all the numbers lining up neatly. "And everything is in your name. Legally yours."
"Exactly," her father said, smiling softly. "And you manage the day-to-day with her. That's the life I wanted for our family—prosperous, safe, and with no unnecessary burdens on anyone."
Min Hyun had exhaled, leaning back. "Then… I'll make sure it succeeds. I promise, Soojin."
"I know you will," Soojin replied, warmth in her eyes. "And Father… I hope your farmhouse is exactly what you've imagined. Peaceful, happy… just like you wanted."
Her father's voice had softened. "It will be. And you both… you'll handle everything here. I trust you."
Min Hyun closed his eyes in that memory, feeling the weight of legacy, love, and responsibility pressing down. He had agreed wholeheartedly then—but now, facing the hidden betrayal of his cousin and the looming financial ruin, the memory stung bitterly.
"All those plans… all that trust…" he muttered to himself. "And yet…"
The ledger sat open, numbers mocking him, as the flashback faded into the harsh reality of the present.
Daegu
The grand Min residence that once echoed with Yun Ki and Yuki's laughter was now silent. Boxes lined the living room, half-packed with belongings that had once symbolized comfort and success.
Min Hyun stared at the papers on the table, the final calculations of debts and payments. His chest felt tight, but his voice was calm.
"Soojin, we can't… we can't hold onto everything. Not with these losses," he said.
Soojin placed a hand over his. "I know. We'll manage. We've faced worse. Together."
Yun Ki, ten, peeked from behind a box, eyes wide. "Papa… does this mean we're… moving?"
"Yes, Yun Ki," Min Hyun replied softly. "We're starting fresh. A new city, a new home… we'll rebuild from here."
Yuki, five, toddled over, tugging at Soojin's sleeve. "I want my toys!"
Soojin laughed, ruffling her hair. "We'll take the essentials. The rest… we'll start anew."
Min Hyun's mother stepped forward, eyes gentle but firm. "Hyun, listen to me. You've done more than anyone could ask. Don't carry all this alone. We'll help you, Soojin. Whatever you need—household, the children—we're here."
His father, composed as ever but with a soft edge in his voice, nodded. "You've built something before. You can rebuild again. Don't let pride stop you from accepting help. Daegu will be different, yes—but it's not impossible."
Min Hyun exhaled slowly, feeling some weight lift. "Thank you, both of you. Your support… it matters more than you know."
The next four months were grueling. They sold almost everything—the luxury cars, high-end furnishings, even small heirlooms—anything that could be converted into cash to pay off debts. Every evening, Min Hyun, Soojin, and his parents reconciled payments, sorted essentials, and planned the next day's moves. Yun Ki quietly helped by organizing small things, already showing responsibility beyond his years, while Yuki ran around, unaware of the stress but providing small moments of lightness.
Finally, with enough money to cover immediate debts, the family packed their remaining belongings into a modest moving van.
"Daegu," Min Hyun said, gripping the steering wheel as the Seoul skyline faded behind them. "A fresh start."
Soojin glanced at him, exhaustion and hope mixed in her eyes. "It'll be hard… starting over. But we'll make it work. We always do."
Yun Ki's voice broke the silence from the backseat. "I'll help, Papa. I want to make this new home… ours."
"And I'll be the princess," Yuki added cheerfully, hugging her mother's arm.
Min Hyun's mother patted his shoulder. "You see? They're strong. And so are you. We'll all face this together."
His father added, voice steady, "Daegu isn't Seoul. But sometimes, a smaller place teaches bigger lessons. You'll learn. They'll learn. And you'll come out stronger."
Min Hyun allowed himself a small smile, glancing at his family. "It won't be easy. Life won't hand us comfort like Seoul did. But we have each other. That's more than enough."
As the highway stretched ahead, the sunlight glinted off the windshield. Ahead lay Daegu—an unfamiliar city, new streets, unknown challenges—but also a chance to rebuild, to teach their children resilience, humility, and the meaning of starting over.
"Seoul was behind them, Daegu ahead—and though the road was uncertain, How would they start over from the scratch.....?"