A young man ran at high speed on the treadmill, his footsteps pounding rhythmically against the belt.
In one hand, he held his phone, the screen displaying a live feed of a small child sleeping peacefully in his room.
Jin Woo's breathing came in steady, controlled bursts, "Huh… huh… huh…", as sweat rolled down his temples and back. His sharp eyes moving from time to time on the image, ensuring the boy was safe even during his intense morning workout.
He had been pushing himself like this for over thirty minutes in the Blue Box Gym, located on the lower levels of Gleam Tower.
After some time, Jin Woo finally slowed the machine and stepped off.
He grabbed a bottle of water from the holder and drank deeply, his Adam's apple bobbing with each gulp. The regulars in the exclusive gym couldn't help but stare at the newcomer.
"Is he a new resident?" one woman whispered.
"I suppose so. He looks like a superstar," another replied.
"Yeah, but he looks so cold and unapproachable."
"You're right. He seems young maybe his parents bought the apartment for him."
"Otherwise, how could someone so young afford a place in this building?"
"Should I approach him and ask for his number?"
"Don't disturb others. Let's just focus on our own exercises."
Jin Woo ignored the murmurs, wiping his face with a towel.
After a brief rest, he headed to the shower room.
He removed his sweat soaked tank top, revealing a body that looked as if it had been chiseled from marble.
His well defined six pack and sculpted muscles gleamed under the lights. He stepped under the shower, turning it on.
Pitter-patter. Pitter-patter. Pitter-patter.
The warm water cascaded over him, washing away the sweat and tension.
Jin Woo took a quick but thorough shower, then changed into fresh clothes. Feeling refreshed, he made his way back to Unit 3502 on the 35th floor.
Scene changed to the penthouse.
The morning light filtered through the floor to ceiling windows, casting a soft, elegant glow across the penthouse.
The space was minimalist yet refined, featuring simple white tones and high end finishes that amazed anyone who stepped inside. A study table was located near the window, and a large sofa sat in the middle of the room. Other than that, only the open kitchen was visible.
A robot vacuum cleaner quietly emerged from its charging dock and began its daily cleaning route, gliding smoothly across the floors.
Jin Woo checked his watch, the rhythmic ticking a stark contrast to the peaceful quiet of the apartment. He had already changed into a perfectly tailored black suit that accentuated his sharp silhouette and reflected the discipline of a CEO. Walking down the hallway, he entered a room that felt like an entirely different world, a sanctuary of soft blues and childhood wonder. Shelves lined with colorful storybooks and advanced math puzzles stood neatly beside a small white study table, where Hajun's tiny backpack waited.
Jin Woo approached the bed and gazed down at his five year old nephew. Hajun's small face was peaceful in sleep, though Jin Woo knew the boy still carried the heavy burden of grief from losing his parents.
"Hajun… Hajun, wake up," he whispered. His usually firm voice softened with gentle affection.
The boy stirred, his long lashes fluttering open. He looked up at his uncle with a sleepy pout. "Uncle… let me sleep five more minutes," Hajun murmured, clutching his blanket tightly.
"No, big guy," Jin Woo replied, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Today is your first day at the new kindergarten."
Hajun opened his big, soulful eyes for a moment, but sleep still weighed heavily on him, and they drifted shut again. Jin Woo carefully scooped the boy into his arms, carrying him toward the bathroom. "Hajun, you will be late for kindergarten," he said softly as they moved.
After some gentle coaxing, Hajun finally opened his eyes fully.
Jin-woo set him down on a small stool near the washbasin and handed him his toothbrush.
The boy took it and began brushing his teeth diligently. Once he finished, Hajun insisted on bathing himself.
Jin Woo watched protectively from nearby. Seeing such a small child behaving with such maturity caused Jin Woo's eyes to grow slightly wet with emotion. He quickly wiped the tears away before Hajun could notice. The boy had already endured so much.
After the morning routine, Jin Woo made a quick call to the building's premium service staff. Soon, a warm breakfast was delivered to their door.
As Hajun finished showering and changed into his neat kindergarten uniform, they sat down to eat together.
Jin Woo looked at his nephew warmly. "Hajun, today is your first day. Do you want me to stay there for some time with you before I leave?"
Hajun shook his head firmly. "No, Uncle. I don't want the other kids to look at me strangely. I will be okay alone."
Jin Woo nodded quietly. "Alright then. I'll walk you to the kindergarten gate, and then you can go inside by yourself."
They continued eating in comfortable silence, the young CEO and the little prodigy, fueling up for the important day ahead. Jin Woo glanced over with a faint smile. "The breakfast service was really nice. How about you, Hajun?"
Hajun, looking serious as always, replied, "Yes, the food was nice." Bread crumbs were scattered across his face. Jin Woo chuckled softly, picked up a napkin, and gently cleaned his nephew's cheeks. "My little baby is becoming a big boy now."
Hajun didn't pull away. He knew how much his uncle cherished these caring moments. Once his face was clean, Jin Woo stood up. "Alright, now we're ready. Let's go."
Hajun grabbed his backpack while Jin Woo picked up his phone and wallet. They headed to the private elevator on their floor. Soon, they descended to the basement parking area, where Jin Woo's sleek Mercedes Maybach S650 waited in the shadows.
The drive through Gangnam was smooth, the bustling city blurring behind the tinted glass as they approached Little Mozart International Kindergarten.
When they arrived, Jin Woo stepped out first and opened the door for Hajun. He took the boy's small hand as they walked toward the grand entrance.
Standing near the gate was a young woman who immediately caught Jin-woo's attention. His gaze lingered on her for a second longer than intended, but he quickly looked away to avoid being rude.
She wore a delicate pink blouse tucked neatly into a crisp white skirt. Her long, elegant legs and graceful posture made her appear more like a model than a kindergarten teacher. Her hair a beautiful cascade of light brown and black strands shimmered under the morning sun.
Jin Woo noted the expensive, refined quality of her clothes, which stood out from a typical uniform.
As they drew closer, she turned toward them with a warm and genuine smile that lit up her face. "Are you Hajun's father?" she asked, her voice as soft and soothing as a melody.
Jin Woo didn't feel like explaining the full complexities of his situation. "Yes," he replied simply, his voice steady and brief.
The woman, Cha Eun Soo, nodded kindly. She reached out gently to take Hajun's small bag from Jin Woo's hand and offered the boy a reassuring pat on the shoulder.
For the first time in months, Jin Woo felt a pang of reluctance at leaving Hajun. Sensing this, Hajun looked up at him with a brave face. "I will be okay, Uncle."
Jin Woo managed a small smile in return. Suddenly, the school bell rang. Hajun and Teacher Eun Soo began walking inside.
The boy glanced back once toward the gate, where Jin Woo stood watching.
Jin Woo remained there a moment longer, his stoic expression hiding the swirl of emotions inside.