Flashback: 18 Years Ago

The atmosphere in the Min Empire Mansion was thick with tension, the air heavy and filled with an unspoken weight.

Min Hoon-suk, the patriarch of the family, stood at the center of the room, his cold and distant eyes scanning the scene before him. His aura radiated authority and power, demanding respect without a single word being spoken.

In his hands, he gripped a glass of wine, the red liquid swirling with each subtle movement, yet his gaze remained fixed on Jeo-soo and Min-shi, who stood together, holding their newly born daughters.

The proud parents smiled at their daughters, but Hoon-suk's gaze remained unwavering, a stark contrast to their soft expressions.
His eyes held something unreadable, and his silence seemed to carry a weight that no one in the room could quite understand.

Beside him stood Min Lola, his daughter, her face blank and calm. There was no emotion in her eyes, only a stoic expression, as though she had seen this scene unfold too many times to feel anything anymore.

She didn't speak, didn't even glance at the newborn girls in her father's arms. Her focus was solely on her family, particularly Jeo-soo and Min-shi, as they held their little ones in front of the rest of the family.

The seven young brothers, who had been watching quietly from the second floor, remained hidden from view, though their eyes were wide with curiosity and confusion.

They didn't understand much of what was happening, but the tension in the air made them feel uneasy, like they were witnessing something important that they couldn't yet comprehend.

Among the brothers, only Jin, Yoongi, and Hoseok seemed to sense the gravity of the moment, though their understanding was still limited by their age.

The others, younger and more innocent, looked on with blank expressions, their minds not yet capable of processing the complexity of the situation. Jin, always the protective older brother, kept glancing at his younger siblings, trying to shield them from whatever turmoil was bubbling beneath the surface.

Yoongi, always quiet and observant, couldn't help but notice the coldness in Hoon-suk's gaze. It wasn't just directed at Min-shi and Jeo-soo.

It was as if the entire room was being judged, as if the very existence of the newborn girls was a challenge to the family's carefully constructed world.

What was happening? He wondered, but kept his thoughts to himself, sensing it was not the time to ask questions.

Hoseok, typically the most optimistic and cheerful, felt the tension weigh heavily on him, his usual energy subdued by the heaviness in the air. He exchanged glances with Yoongi, who gave him a small, quiet nod, as if to silently acknowledge that they were both feeling the same unease.

The room was silent except for the occasional sound of someone shifting their weight, the tension so thick it almost felt suffocating.

Jeo-soo and Min-shi, oblivious to the unsettling atmosphere around them, were too focused on their daughters, but even they couldn't ignore the icy atmosphere their family had suddenly found itself in.

It was a moment frozen in time, a moment where the birth of two new lives was overshadowed by the silent struggles of the family, and the Min Empire stood on the edge of a precipice, teetering between love and power, joy and sorrow.

The future, it seemed, would not be as peaceful as it appeared on the surface. And neither would the lives of the children watching from above.

"Give Lola your daughter, Min-shi," Hoon-suk commanded, his words clear and unwavering.

The tension in the room grew unbearable as Min Hoon-suk's voice broke the silence like a sharp knife cutting through the still air. His eyes, cold and calculating, settled on Min-shi, who was still holding Mara close to her chest.

His voice, though calm, was laced with authority and a touch of menace as he spoke.

Min-shi's heart dropped into her stomach. Her grip on little Mara tightened instinctively as fear shot through her veins. She could feel the tiny body of her daughter in her arms, her heart beating rapidly against her chest.

No, not Mara. She couldn't imagine handing over her child to someone she barely knew, especially to a woman like Lola, who seemed cold and indifferent, her expression blank as ever.

Min-shi's voice wavered, but her determination was clear. "I won't give my daughter to her, Hoon-suk," she said firmly, her eyes locking onto Lola, who stood silently beside her father.

There was nothing but bitterness in Min-shi's gaze, her heart heavy with distrust.

Hoon-suk, however, didn't flinch. His face remained impassive, his gaze unyielding as he turned toward Jeo-soo, who had been standing quietly beside his wife, watching the exchange unfold with growing discomfort. His father's gaze pierced through him, as if silently demanding an answer.

"Jeo-soo, tell your wife to give Mara to Lola," Hoon-suk ordered, his voice colder now, a sharp edge creeping into his tone.

Jeo-soo's brow furrowed, his heart racing as he exchanged a pleading look with Min-shi, who was still clutching Mara tightly. His face was a mixture of confusion, helplessness, and a growing sense of dread.

He turned to his father, his voice shaky but firm. "Why are you doing this, Dad? What's the point of this punishment?"

Hoon-suk's eyes narrowed, and he leaned forward slightly, his gaze darkening as he spoke again. "Don't act dumb, Jeo-soo. This is the best punishment you'll face. You didn't trust your own sister, someone who has been a part of this family for 25 years, over someone who was nothing but an outsider until just recently."

Jeo-soo clenched his jaw, the words stinging more than he expected. He could feel the weight of his father's words crashing down on him, and a flicker of anger sparked in his chest.

"Min-shi is my wife. She's not some outsider. She is a part of this family," he said with conviction, his voice louder now, his frustration starting to show.

A slow, mocking smirk appeared on Hoon-suk's face as he tilted his head slightly, his eyes narrowing even further. "How many years have you known Lola?" he asked, his voice almost taunting.

Jeo-soo hesitated, his gaze flicking briefly to his sister Lola, who stood there, as emotionless as ever, her eyes unwavering. "Twenty-five years," Jeo-soo answered softly, his voice tinged with a bittersweet tone, the weight of the years of familiarity hanging in his words.

Hoon-suk raised an eyebrow, his expression one of quiet satisfaction. "And what about Min-shi?" he asked, his gaze now turning to Jeo-soo with a dark intensity.

Jeo-soo's heart sank as he realized where this conversation was going. He looked down at Min-shi, who was still holding Mara tightly, her face a mask of determination but also fear.

He swallowed hard, his voice barely above a whisper as he answered, "Nine months."

Hoon-suk let out a low chuckle, the sound hollow and cruel. "For nine months, you've shared a romantic relationship with her, and yet you still don't trust your own flesh and blood. Twenty-five years with Lola, but you trust someone you've known for less than a year more than your sister."

Jeo-soo's face flushed with a mixture of guilt and anger. He opened his mouth to speak, but Hoon-suk wasn't finished.

"You should have trusted your blood. The family bond is unbreakable, Jeo-soo, but you've chosen to ignore that, to put your faith in someone who hasn't been part of this family long enough to understand it," Hoon-suk continued, his voice growing colder with every word.

Jeo-soo clenched his fists at his sides, his chest tight with the conflict raging inside him. "But Lola tried to kill Min-shi," he snapped, his voice rising with frustration and anger. "She put poison in her food, Dad. She tried to take Min-shi's life!"

A sharp gasp escaped Lola's lips, her face hardening, her eyes blazing with fury. She took a step forward, her hands clenched into fists, her voice laced with indignation as she responded, "I didn't do that! Min-shi is lying. I never poisoned her. You know that!"

Hoon-suk's gaze flickered between his daughter and his son, his expression unreadable. "Lola, you'd better watch your words. Do you think I don't know what happened?" His voice was a low growl, the air around them heavy with tension.

But Lola stood her ground, her voice unwavering. "I didn't do it. You can believe whatever you want, but I didn't poison her. Min-shi is lying, trying to turn you against me."

The room was thick with silence after Lola's outburst, the air heavy with tension as each family member stood frozen, their words hanging like daggers in the room.

Jeo-soo's head throbbed with the weight of the situation, the anger building inside him. He turned toward his wife, looking at her with desperation in his eyes. "Min-shi," he said softly, his voice breaking, "please, trust me. I'll protect you. I won't let them take Mara."

Min-shi met his gaze, her heart heavy with worry, but she nodded, her grip tightening on Mara, silently making a vow to never let her daughter go.

The tension in the room reached a breaking point, each word cutting deeper than the last. Jeo-soo's voice was filled with frustration as he defended Min-shi, his words cutting through the silence.

"Lola has always been lying," he said, his gaze hardening as he turned to look at his sister, his words bitter with accusation. "She's always been jealous of Min-shi. That's why she tries to tear her down."

Lola let out a sharp, mocking laugh, her lips curling into a disdainful smile.

"Jealous? Of Min-shi? What could I possibly be jealous of? Nothing," she scoffed, her voice dripping with contempt. "It's Min-shi who's always been jealous of me. I have everything, and she... She was born in an orphanage with no family, no one to care for her."

Her words hit like daggers, cutting into Min-shi's heart. The words were cruel, and Lola's cold tone made it clear she didn't care who she hurt.

Min-shi's jaw clenched, her hands trembling slightly as she held onto Mara, her precious daughter, tighter to her chest.

Jeo-soo's face turned red with anger, his fists clenched. "Watch your words, Lola," he warned, his voice harsh and steady. But Lola merely shrugged, a smirk still plastered across her face, not bothered by the threat in her brother's tone.

Meanwhile, Min-shi's eyes, filled with hatred, never left Lola. She didn't speak, but the intensity of her stare was enough to show how deeply she despised the woman in front of her.

Lola met Min-shi's gaze, her eyes burning with an edge of defiance. "Tell Min Min-shi to speak the truth," she sneered, her voice dripping with venom. "If you have the guts to admit what's really going on."

Before the argument could escalate further, Hoon-suk's voice rang out, cutting through the tension like a blade.

"Enough." His command was absolute, and everyone fell silent, waiting for his next words.

"If Lola says she didn't do it, then she didn't." Hoon-suk's voice was firm, unwavering. His gaze shifted to Jeo-soo, his face cold and emotionless. "If you are so determined to make Lola leave the house, then I will leave with her. I cannot live with someone who has zero trust in their own sister."

The words struck like a thunderclap, and Jeo-soo stood frozen, caught in a storm of emotions. His father's coldness made his chest tighten with guilt, and his face flushed with the weight of the decision before him.

He glanced desperately at Min-shi, whose expression was a mixture of fear and helplessness.

Hoon-suk's next order was simple but forceful. "Lola, take Mara from Min-shi."

Lola's eyes gleamed with a cold, calculating look as she approached Min-shi. The room seemed to grow colder with every step Lola took toward her, and Min-shi instinctively took a step back, clutching Mara tighter to her chest.

Her voice was firm, filled with a mixture of fear and defiance. "No. I won't let you take her." Her heart pounded in her chest, the thought of losing her daughter sending a wave of panic through her.

But Lola didn't hesitate. Her smile remained sharp, almost predatory, as she reached out, her hands moving forward.

"You have no choice, Min-shi," she said coldly, her grip closing around Mara's tiny form.

With a forceful motion, Lola ripped Mara from Min-shi's arms. The baby let out a soft cry as she was pulled away, and Min-shi could only watch in horror, her heart breaking as Lola held Mara .

Jeo-soo stood frozen, his face pale, his lips moving in desperation. "Dad, please, don't do this." His voice was filled with pleading, but Hoon-suk didn't even glance his way.

He ignored Jeo-soo completely, his eyes fixed on the scene unfolding before him.

Min-shi stood there, breathless, her eyes full of pain as she watched her daughter being taken away. Her heart screamed in agony, but there was nothing she could do. She had never felt so powerless.

Jeo-soo glanced helplessly at his father, then back at Min-shi, his chest tight with the pressure of the moment.

He wanted to stop this, to protect his wife and daughter, but his father's iron will was too strong. His voice cracked as he spoke again, his words almost desperate. "Please, Dad... Don't take her."

But Hoon-suk didn't respond, his eyes never leaving Lola as she held Mara in her arms, the baby's tiny hands clinging to her, unaware of the pain and the conflict surrounding her.

"Min-shi is an orphan, not Lola." Hoon-suk's words were final, and with that, the family was divided, and Mara was lost to her mother.

The tension in the room thickened as little Hoseok, his face filled with confusion, looked up at Jin.

"Why are they taking Mara away?" he asked, his voice trembling with uncertainty.

He couldn't understand why this was happening, why the baby, so small and innocent, was being torn away from the only family she knew.

Jin, who had been watching the entire scene with a furrowed brow, shook his head slowly.

"I don't know, Hoseok," he said, his tone heavy with sadness. "I don't understand either." The words hung in the air, filled with a mixture of confusion and helplessness.

Hoseok clenched his fists at his sides, his face scrunching up as if the weight of the situation was too much for him to bear.

"I don't want Mara to go." His voice quivered, and it was clear that his small heart was aching, the injustice of it all burning in his young mind.

Meanwhile, Yoongi stood silently in the background, his expression unreadable. His gaze was fixed firmly on Mara, who was being carried away by Lola, her tiny form helpless in the older woman's arms.

His jaw tightened as he watched, but he said nothing. His deep, dark eyes revealed nothing of the inner turmoil stirring inside him.

There was a strange sense of longing in his gaze, as though something inside him recognized the tragedy of this moment, but he remained still, unable to do anything to stop it.

Lola walked towards her father, Hoon-suk, with Mara cradled in her arms. Her expression was softer than ever, her eyes filled of any warmth as she handed the baby over to Hoon-suk.

Hoon-suk looked down at the baby in his arms, his face softening for a brief moment as he looked at the tiny child.

"From now on, Mara will grow up as my beloved granddaughter," he said, his voice carrying an almost affectionate tone.

But his words held a chilling finality, and the family could feel the weight of his declaration. The child was no longer a part of their family, not in the way she had been moments before.

Turning away from Min-shi and Jeo-soo, Hoon-suk spoke again, his voice commanding and absolute.

"We are leaving this house." His words were not a request, but an order. He looked back at Lola and the others, his face stone cold.

There was no room for argument, no chance to reclaim what had just been taken. The family was torn apart, the bonds broken.

As Lola and Hoon-suk walked towards the door, Jeo-soo's eyes followed them, his heart breaking with every step they took.

He had no control over what was happening, and the helplessness gnawed at him.

Min-shi stood frozen, unable to even cry. The devastation was too much, the grief too overwhelming. She had lost Mara-her daughter-and nothing in the world could make this right.

The love and trust she had built with her family seemed like a distant memory, shattered in an instant.

The room felt eerily silent, the weight of the situation hanging heavy on their hearts. The separation of a family, the loss of a daughter, was not something that could easily be healed.

It was as if the entire house had been hollowed out, and nothing would ever be the same again.

Yoongi remained still, his gaze still on Mara, even as Lola carried her away. There was a quiet, brooding sadness in his eyes, as though he knew something had been broken beyond repair.

He didn't speak, didn't move, just watched as the scene unfolded before him, his heart aching with a deep, unspoken pain.

As Min-shi collapsed to the floor, her body trembling with the weight of the loss, her sobs echoed through the silent room. Her hands, still outstretched as if trying to reach out for Mara, fell helplessly to her sides.

The pain that surged within her felt as though it could swallow her whole, and the world around her became blurry with the tears that streamed down her face.

The heartache of losing Mara, her daughter, was something that felt unbearable-unfathomable.

Jeo-soo, still holding Ji-hu-their other daughter, their precious twin-looked down at the tiny child in his arms. His expression was a mixture of grief and determination.

He gently cradled Ji-hu closer to his chest, his fingers brushing over her soft hair. It was as if she was the only thing tethering him to this broken world.

The room seemed to close in on him, the weight of the situation pressing heavily on his shoulders.

The loss of Mara felt like a deep wound, but now, he had to focus on Ji-hu, their surviving daughter.

His gaze softened as he looked at her, her innocent face peaceful in his arms, unaware of the turmoil that surrounded her.

Min-shi's cries echoed in his ears, and for a moment, Jeo-soo closed his eyes, fighting back his own tears. His heart ached for Min-shi, for the pain she was enduring, and yet, he couldn't let go of Ji-hu.

They had to remain strong for her, for both of their daughters. As the pain of the present crushed him, he knew he had no choice but to push forward, for Ji-hu.

The room was filled with silence, save for the soft sobs of Min-shi, her grief consuming her. Jeo-soo stood frozen for a moment, staring down at Ji-hu, trying to steady his breath.

The world had felt like it was slipping out of his control, and he didn't know how to fix any of it. But one thing was clear-he had to protect Ji-hu.

She was their daughter too, and he couldn't afford to let anything happen to her.

He turned towards Min-shi, his heart heavy with the burden they both carried. "We need to be strong, Min-shi," he whispered, his voice barely audible. "For Ji-hu. We have to focus on her now."

His words hung in the air, and for a moment, it seemed like they had no meaning at all, too small in comparison to the devastation they had just endured.

But the truth behind them remained clear-Ji-hu was the last part of their family they still had, and they had to protect her with everything they had left.

Min-shi, still broken on the floor, nodded weakly, her sobs quieting just enough for her to hear Jeo-soo's words.

She slowly lifted her head, her tear-streaked face a mirror of despair.

But there was something in Jeo-soo's gaze, something deep and steady, that made her swallow back the overwhelming grief, even if just for a moment.

"Ji-hu..." she whispered, looking at her daughter, the one she still had. "We won't lose you too. I promise."

But even as she whispered that promise, Min-shi knew that this world-this family-had been irrevocably changed.

They had lost Mara, and the path ahead was shrouded in uncertainty and pain. But for Ji-hu, they had to keep moving forward.

The storm had hit their family hard, and there was no turning back from it. But they would keep going-for Ji-hu, for their daughter who still needed them.

✨✨✨

Present...

The soft glow of morning light seeped through the white curtains of Ji-hu's bedroom, casting a golden hue over the elegant yet cozy space.

The room, painted in soft shades of yellow and white, felt warm despite the chilly winter air outside.

Snowflakes drifted gently from the sky, covering the streets of Tokyo in a pure white blanket. It was a beautiful morning-calm, peaceful, and perfect.

On the large, plush bed in the center of the room, Ji-hu lay curled up under a thick comforter, her face serene and undisturbed.

She was deep in sleep, unaware of the excitement waiting for her outside.

Today was no ordinary day-it was her eighteenth birthday, the day she had been waiting for all year.

The door to her room creaked open slowly, and a man in his early forties stepped inside. Min Jeo-soo, her father, walked in with quiet steps, his lips curving into a soft smile as he looked at his sleeping daughter.

His heart swelled with warmth. It felt like just yesterday when she was a little girl, clinging to his hand, and now she had grown into a beautiful young woman.

Shaking his head with amusement, he walked closer to her bed and reached out, gently shaking her shoulder.

"Ji-hu, wake up," he called softly.

Ji-hu let out a sleepy groan and turned to the other side, burying her face deeper into her pillow. "Mmm... five more minutes, please..." she murmured, her voice muffled.

Jeo-soo chuckled. He had expected this. His daughter was never an early riser, and waking her up in the morning had always been a task.

He sat on the edge of the bed and brushed a few strands of hair away from her peaceful face.

"Come on, princess. It's time to wake up," he coaxed, his voice filled with warmth.

Ji-hu groaned again, hugging her blanket tightly. "Appa, let me sleep," she whined.

Jeo-soo smirked before leaning closer. "No, get up now... my birthday girl," he said teasingly.

Ji-hu's eyes flew open the moment she heard those words. Her birthday!

She sat up straight, her drowsiness instantly vanishing as excitement filled her features.

"Oh my God! It's my birthday!" she exclaimed, her voice full of joy. "Finally! I've been waiting for this day all year!"

Jeo-soo laughed at her sudden burst of energy and ruffled her hair. "Yes, finally. Happy birthday, my princess," he said with a proud smile.

Ji-hu grinned but then narrowed her eyes mischievously. "Hmm... just a wish? That's not enough, Appa. You know the rules," she said, crossing her arms playfully.

Jeo-soo let out a dramatic sigh, already knowing what was coming. "I know, I know. I have to grant your wish. But first, you need to get up. Everyone is waiting for you-including your precious oppas."

At the mention of her older brothers, Ji-hu's eyes sparkled with excitement. She immediately threw her blanket off and jumped out of bed.

"Oppas! What did they plan for me? Did they prepare something special?" she asked eagerly.

Jeo-soo chuckled at his daughter's enthusiasm. "Why don't you go and find out for yourself?" he said, standing up. "But first, freshen up. I'll be waiting downstairs."

Ji-hu nodded excitedly and rushed toward her bathroom, already looking forward to the surprises waiting for her.

As Jeo-soo watched her, a soft smile remained on his face. His little girl was now eighteen-an adult in the eyes of the world. But to him, she would always be his precious princess. With that thought, he turned and left the room, ready to see the happiness unfold on her special day.

Jeo-soo walked down the grand staircase, his steps steady as he entered the spacious living room where the entire family had gathered.

The warm, golden light from the chandelier above cast a soft glow over the room, making it feel even cozier despite the cold winter morning outside.

The moment Jeo-soo stepped into the room, all eyes turned to him. A sense of anticipation lingered in the air, and it was clear that everyone was waiting for one person-Ji-hu.

Jin, the eldest of Ji-hu's brothers at thirty years old, leaned slightly against the armrest of the sofa. His sharp yet gentle eyes met his father's.

"Where is Ji-hu?" he asked, his voice calm but filled with the warmth only a protective older brother could have. There was an unmistakable softness in his tone when he said his sister's name.

Jeo-soo smiled. "She's coming," he assured them.

Hoseok, sitting cross-legged on the floor, let out a small chuckle. "I still can't believe Ji-hu is eighteen now," he said, shaking his head in disbelief. "Wasn't she just running around in pigtails a few years ago?"

Min-shi, Jeo-soo's wife and Ji-hu's mother, sighed with a nostalgic smile. "Time has gone by like a blink of an eye," she said, her voice carrying both pride and a hint of sadness. "It feels like just yesterday she was learning how to walk."

Jin leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "She may have turned eighteen, but for us, she's still our little girl," he stated firmly, his deep voice laced with finality.

Namjoon, who had been quietly sipping his coffee on the sofa, raised an eyebrow at his older brother's words.

He adjusted his glasses and sighed. "She's an adult now, hyung. We can't treat her like a baby forever," he pointed out reasonably.

Jin turned to glare at him, his eyes narrowing. "She is a baby. Our baby," he retorted, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

Taehyung sighed and leaned toward Namjoon. "Hyung, don't even try," he whispered. "You know Jin hyung will never accept that Ji-hu is growing up."

Namjoon exhaled, shaking his head with an amused expression. He knew arguing with Jin about Ji-hu was a lost cause. Not only Jin but no one is gonna accept the fact that their precious little Ji-hu is no more little girl.

No matter how much time passed, Jin would always see her as the tiny girl who used to follow them around, clinging to their shirts.

Jimin, who had been quietly listening to the conversation, finally let out an exaggerated sigh and shook his head.

"Aish, can you all stop ruining the atmosphere with these silly talks?" he said, crossing his arms. "It's Ji-hu's birthday! We should be focusing on her." Then, with a playful smirk, he added, "Otherwise, she'll eat us alive if something is missing from her special day."

The room filled with light chuckles at Jimin's words because, honestly, he wasn't wrong.

Ji-hu had always been particular about her birthday, making sure every little detail was perfect.

If even the tiniest thing was off, she wouldn't hesitate to throw a dramatic fit-just like a true youngest sibling.

Jeo-soo glanced around the room, his brows slightly furrowing when he noticed that someone was missing.

"Wait a minute... where is Yoongi?" he asked, his voice carrying curiosity.

Jungkook, who had been busy scrolling through his phone, barely lifted his head as he casually replied, "Yoongi hyung is still in his room."

Min-shi let out a sigh, shaking her head in mild annoyance.

"That boy is always lazy like that," she muttered, though there was no real scolding in her tone-just the fond exasperation of a mother who knew her son too well.

Jungkook smirked as he finally put his phone down. "Don't worry, Mom," he said confidently. "Today is his diva's birthday. He'll be here soon."

At Jungkook's teasing words, the brothers exchanged knowing glances. If there was one undeniable fact in their family, it was that Yoongi had a soft spot for Ji-hu-an obvious, unshakable, undeniable soft spot.

He wasn't the most expressive person, nor was he one to openly show affection, but when it came to Ji-hu, he always made an exception.

Jin rolled his eyes at Jungkook's words but couldn't help the small smile that tugged at his lips.

"Tch. That idiot acts like he doesn't care, but we all know Ji-hu's the only person who can make him move," he muttered.

Hoseok laughed. "True. Even if he was in the deepest sleep, he'd wake up if Ji-hu called him," he said, amused.

Min-shi smiled at the conversation but then clapped her hands lightly.

"Alright, enough about Yoongi. Ji-hu will be down any minute now. Everything is ready, right?" she asked, looking at the boys.

Jimin stretched his arms. "Of course, eomma. We've planned everything perfectly," he assured her with a grin.

Just as they were talking, hurried footsteps echoed from the stairs once again.

"She's coming," Namjoon announced, putting his coffee down.

And at that moment, the whole room seemed to buzz with excitement.

"She's here," Jeo-soo said with a small chuckle.

"Everybody, the birthday girl is here!" Ji-hu announced excitedly, jumping down the last step of the grand staircase.

Her voice was filled with joy, her bright eyes twinkling with excitement as she spread her arms dramatically.

The whole room turned toward her, and instantly, smiles spread across everyone's faces.

It was impossible not to smile when Ji-hu was this energetic. Her happiness was infectious.

Jin, the ever-doting eldest brother, was the first to step forward. He walked up to her with a soft smile, his tall frame towering over her as he gently placed a hand on her head.

"Happy birthday, princess," he said warmly, his voice deep yet gentle.

Ji-hu grinned up at him. "Thank you, oppa!" she chirped. "Now, where's my birthday gift?" she added playfully, tilting her head.

Jin chuckled, ruffling her hair. "Patience, Ji-hu. We have everything planned," he teased.

Before Ji-hu could protest, the rest of her brothers surrounded her, each taking turns to wish her.

"Happy birthday, Ji-hu-yah," Namjoon said with a soft smile, adjusting his glasses.

"Our baby girl is finally eighteen," Hoseok added dramatically, placing a hand over his heart. "I feel so old!"

Jimin rolled his eyes at Hoseok's dramatic reaction before grinning at Ji-hu.

"Happy birthday, brat," he said, pulling her into a quick side hug. "Don't expect me to go easy on you just because you're legally an adult now."

Ji-hu smirked. "I don't need you to go easy on me. I can handle you just fine."

Taehyung walked forward and softly patted Ji-hu's head and said, " Happy birthday, Ji-hu "

" Your welcome Oppa! " Ji-hu smiles at him who just nodded his head.

Jungkook, who had been standing slightly behind, finally stepped forward and flashed a bunny smile.

"Happy birthday, Ji-hu," he said before pulling her into a tight bear hug, lifting her off the ground slightly.

"Yah! Put me down, oppa!" Ji-hu yelped, laughing as she lightly hit his shoulder.

Min-shi, their mother, watched the scene with a warm smile. "Aigoo, stop bullying my daughter on her birthday," she scolded lightly.

Ji-hu stuck her tongue out at her brothers before turning to her mother and wrapping her arms around her. "Thank you, eomma," she whispered softly.

Jeo-soo, who had been silently watching the interaction with a fond smile, finally stepped forward and placed his hands on Ji-hu's shoulders.

"Alright, enough teasing. Today is Ji-hu's special day," he announced. "Let's make sure it's perfect for her."

Ji-hu clapped her hands excitedly. "Yes! Now, where's Yoongi oppa?" she asked, looking around.

The room fell silent for a second before Jungkook smirked. "Told you she'd ask," he muttered under his breath.

Min-shi sighed. "That boy is still in his room," she said, shaking her head.

Ji-hu huffed. "Aish, seriously? It's my birthday, and he's still not here? I'm going to drag him out myself!"

Before anyone could stop her, Ji-hu turned on her heels and marched toward the stairs.

The boys exchanged amused glances, knowing full well that there was only one person in the world who could barge into Yoongi's room and live to tell the tale-Ji-hu.

Ji-hu marched toward Yoongi's room with determination in her steps, ready to drag her lazy brother out herself.

She huffed, mumbling under her breath, "How can he still be in his room on my birthday? Unbelievable."

Just as she was about to push the door open, she suddenly collided with something solid-a broad chest that made her nearly stumble backward.

Before she could hit the ground, strong arms caught her effortlessly.

"Whoa, whoa, Diva, calm down."

The soft yet amused voice was familiar-a voice she had grown up hearing, a voice that always carried a strange mix of nonchalance and warmth.

Ji-hu looked up, already knowing who it was.

"Yoongi oppa!" she huffed, frowning.

Standing before her was Min Yoongi, her 2nd eldest brother. His dark eyes held amusement, his lips slightly curved into a small yet fond smile. His posture was as relaxed as ever, yet his grip on her was steady, making sure she didn't fall.

Ji-hu narrowed her eyes. "What were you doing?" she asked suspiciously.

Yoongi tilted his head, a lazy smirk forming on his face. He was taller, and compared to him, Ji-hu always felt small-especially when he leaned down the way he did now, his sharp yet gentle gaze focused entirely on her.

"I was busy with something," he replied coolly. "But that doesn't mean I forgot your birthday."

Before she could respond, Yoongi did something that made her eyes widen slightly.

He leaned in closer, their noses just barely brushing against each other before he softly bumped his nose against hers-a small, familiar gesture he had done since she was a kid.

"Happy birthday, my Diva."

Ji-hu's pout disappeared instantly, replaced by a small, genuine smile.

Yoongi rarely expressed emotions like the others did-he wasn't one for dramatic hugs or long, affectionate words. But this-this was how Yoongi showed his love. In small, meaningful ways.

Ji-hu crossed her arms, pretending to be unimpressed. "Hmph. Took you long enough," she muttered.

Yoongi chuckled, ruffling her hair. "You're just impatient," he teased.

Ji-hu swatted his hand away. "Yah! I took time to get ready, and you almost missed my grand entrance!" she complained.

Yoongi gave her a mock serious look. "Aish, how terrible. How could I commit such a sin against the birthday queen?" he said dramatically.

Ji-hu glared at him. "Don't mock me!"

Yoongi smirked but then softened again. "Come on, everyone's waiting," he said, placing a gentle hand on her back as he guided her downstairs.

As Yoongi and Ji-hu walked into the back living room, all eyes turned to them.

Jungkook, who was lounging on the couch with his phone in hand, immediately looked up and smirked. "How come Yoongi hyung can be late on Ji-hu's birthday?" he teased, raising an eyebrow.

Ji-hu placed her hands on her hips and huffed. "That's what I was saying! Can you believe he almost missed my grand entrance?"

Yoongi let out a small sigh, shaking his head. "Aish, you two are so dramatic."

Jin chuckled, folding his arms. "But seriously, Yoongi, what were you up to?"

Yoongi simply shrugged, his usual laid-back demeanor unchanged. "Just had something to do."

Jimin narrowed his eyes suspiciously. "Something? That's vague."

Min-shi, their mother, smiled knowingly. "Let him be. At least he's here now."

Ji-hu, still pouting, turned to the table where a beautifully decorated cake sat, covered in white and pastel pink frosting, topped with delicate edible pearls. Her eyes widened with excitement.

Hoseok grinned. "Like it? We designed it just for you."

Ji-hu gasped. "It's so pretty!" She turned to Namjoon. "Did you help too?"

Namjoon smirked. "I mostly supervised."

Jungkook snickered. "He just stood there looking serious while we did the actual work."

Ji-hu giggled as Namjoon rolled his eyes.

Jin clapped his hands. "Alright, let's light the candles!"

Ji-hu sat down at the center, her eyes twinkling as her family gathered around her. Yoongi, standing beside her, reached over and adjusted the candle placement, his usual silent yet attentive way of showing he cared.

As the candles flickered to life, everyone began singing in unison:

"Saeng-il chukhahae, Ji-hu!"

Ji-hu closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. She had been waiting for this day all year, and now, surrounded by her family, she felt truly happy.

This was her moment.

The sound of everyone clapping filled the room as Ji-hu blew out the candles with one swift breath.

A wide, genuine smile spread across her face as she looked at her family, all of them cheering for her.

Ji-hu leaned back in her chair, her excitement bubbling up again.

"So, where's my present?" she asked eagerly, her eyes scanning the room as if she expected something extravagant to appear.

Jeo-soo chuckled, his eyes glimmering with affection for his daughter. "Your present is a day filled with everything you love." He paused for dramatic effect, smiling at her. "We're all going to your favorite place-the carnival."

Ji-hu's eyes lit up. "The carnival? Really?" Her voice carried a tone of disbelief, as if she couldn't believe her father had planned such a perfect day for her.

Min-shi nodded, smiling warmly. "Yes, dear. A whole day out. Everything you want, today is all about you."

Ji-hu jumped out of her seat, clapping her hands in excitement. "I love you guys so much!" She hugged her father, who ruffled her hair affectionately.

"We know, princess. We know." Jeo-soo said with a soft smile.

Min-shi smiled as she placed a hand on her daughter's shoulder. "But first, let's have breakfast. You need to get energized for your special day."

Everyone moved toward the dining room, except for Jeo-soo and Min-shi, who stayed behind for a moment.

Min-shi turned to Jeo-soo, a soft smile playing on her lips. "She's growing up so fast."

Jeo-soo nodded, his gaze lingering on the door as if watching his daughter with the rest of the family. "She's always been our little girl, but now... now she's 18." His voice softened, a hint of pride mixed with a touch of nostalgia.

Min-shi placed a hand on his arm. "She'll always be our little girl, even when she's grown up."

Jeo-soo smiled at her words, his heart full. "I know."

They both stood there for a moment, silently appreciating the beauty of the present. Their daughter was growing up, and the love they had for her would always remain constant, no matter what.

Min-shi's face suddenly changed. The warm smile she had been wearing moments before faltered, replaced by a quiet sadness that seemed to hang in the air.

Jeo-soo noticed immediately. His hand, which had been resting on her shoulder, tightened gently in an effort to comfort her.

He had known this was coming, the moment that would come every year on Ji-hu's birthday.

Min-shi sighed, her voice barely a whisper as she spoke. "It's Mara's birthday too, Jeo-soo."

The words were heavy with the weight of years of longing and pain.

Jeo-soo's heart tightened. He knew exactly where this conversation was heading, and yet, every time it came up, it still felt like a sharp stab in his chest. He stood silently, looking at his wife, his own expression reflecting the same deep ache that she carried.

Mara... their youngest daughter. Their precious twin, who had been taken from them 18 years ago, just days after her birth, by Jeo-soo's father.

His own father, who had always made decisions without considering the pain it would cause. He had taken Mara, and despite every effort, they hadn't been able to bring her back.

Min-shi's voice trembled slightly, as she continued. "It's as if she's a stranger to us now. Every year, we hope for something... a spark, some sign that she remembers us, that she knows we are still her parents. But it's like she's lost to us, like a piece of our hearts are missing.**"

Jeo-soo gently turned her to face him, his eyes filled with understanding. "I know, Min-shi. I know." He could see the ache in her eyes, the same one he carried, the same one that had followed him for years. He took a deep breath, steadying himself. "It's painful. Every day."

The pain of their daughter's indifference towards them was a wound that never healed. It wasn't just the distance she put between herself and them-it was the emptiness they felt every time they saw her.

A daughter who grew up without knowing the love of her biological parents, a daughter who was raised in an environment where she couldn't connect to the family that had once cherished her so dearly.

Min-shi closed her eyes, her voice barely audible. "I just... I wish she could feel it. The love we still have for her. That we've never stopped thinking of her."

Jeo-soo pulled her into an embrace, wrapping his arms around her as she let out a soft sob. "I know, Min-shi. I know."

It was hard, seeing their other daughter, Ji-hu, so full of life and love, when Mara felt like a distant memory-someone who had been lost to time.

They would always love her, but it didn't change the reality.

Jeo-soo closed his eyes, feeling the weight of it all. Every year, the emptiness was there, but they still held on. They had to.

For Ji-hu. For the love they had left. Even if Mara could never come back, they had to keep going.

And for Ji-hu, they would give her the best birthday ever, no matter what.

_______________

On the other hand...

The cool morning air seemed to creep into the large, dimly lit room as the constant beep of an alarm echoed through the space. The room was simple yet spacious, with dark tones that gave it an almost somber feel.

Books were scattered across the study table, and papers were spread out, evidence of Min Mara's late-night study session.

Mara winced as the alarm's noise finally broke through her groggy haze. She lifted her head from the table, blinking a few times as her sleep-heavy eyes tried to focus.

She had definitely fallen asleep while studying-again. A sigh of frustration left her lips as she reached over to silence the alarm.

"Ugh," she muttered under her breath, rubbing her eyes as she slumped back in her chair.

The strain of staying up late was written all over her face, and she felt the weight of the morning pressing down on her already.

Stretching her arms with a lazy yawn, Mara stood up from her desk and ran her fingers through her disheveled hair, only for a few strands to get tangled in the clasp of her hair tie.

"Great..."

She muttered another curse under her breath as she struggled to pull it free, but after a moment, she gave up.

With a huff, she grabbed her phone and tossed it into her pocket before heading toward the door.

She walked out of the room, the dim light of the hallway barely illuminating the path. The house felt eerily quiet this morning, and it seemed as though the weight of the silence pressed against her chest.

She moved through the corridor with purpose, her tired steps echoing faintly as she passed the living room, which was just as still.

The day had barely begun, and already everything seemed frozen in time.

Her destination was clear-the kitchen. She needed coffee. And a lot of it.

She finally reached the kitchen and set her phone aside, the soft hum of the fridge being the only sound that accompanied her.

As she stood in front of the coffee machine, she reached for the coffee beans, her mind still foggy from her lack of sleep. The simple task felt like a mountain to climb, but she had no choice.

She poured the water, set the coffee filter in place, and waited for the comforting aroma to fill the air.

Her thoughts wandered as she watched the machine slowly brew. There were too many things on her mind.

Too many unresolved feelings, too many questions.
And though she tried to push them all aside, the quiet of the house made everything feel that much more real.

Taking a deep breath, she finally reached for the mug, filling it with the hot liquid that would at least help her wake up enough to face the day.

"One step at a time," she muttered to herself, holding the cup in both hands and taking a slow sip, hoping that the warmth would offer a moment of clarity.

Mara picked up her phone with one hand, the other holding her now-empty coffee mug. The cold ceramic pressed into her palm as she scrolled through her notifications absentmindedly.

Her eyes were still heavy with sleep, and she squinted at the screen to focus on the time. 7:31 AM.

She groaned inwardly-her grandpa would most likely be in the middle of his daily yoga session by now, his disciplined routine something she'd never quite gotten used to.

"Same time, every day..." she muttered to herself, shaking her head with a faint smile, though it didn't quite reach her tired eyes.

She finished the last of her coffee in one gulp, feeling its warmth settle in her chest for a moment before it faded.

Setting the mug down on the kitchen counter, Mara stretched, her back aching slightly from the hours spent hunched over textbooks.

She walked over to the sink, turning on the tap and washing the mug. The sound of the water running was almost calming as she absentmindedly scrubbed the mug clean, her mind still wandering to the haze of last night.

Once the mug was dry, she placed it back into the cabinet. Her body still felt sluggish, but she couldn't afford to stay in this fog for too long.

There was too much to do today, and too many things she needed to figure out.

With a resigned sigh, she walked out of the kitchen, heading back to her room. The house felt eerily quiet in the mornings, just the soft rustle of air from the windows and the occasional creak of the wooden floor beneath her feet.

She paused outside her room, glancing at the hallway mirror. Her reflection looked almost unfamiliar-her disheveled hair, the bags under her eyes, the general exhaustion that clung to her face.

"I need to fix this..." she thought, pushing the door open to enter her room.

The curtains were drawn back, letting in the first few rays of sunlight. She closed the door behind her and began to gather the essentials: toothbrush, face wash, and a clean towel.

She moved on autopilot as she brushed her teeth, the soft bristles brushing against her gums, the taste of mint lingering in her mouth.

Her mind wandered again, this time on the quiet whispers of yesterday's events-things she couldn't quite make sense of yet, but felt the weight of deeply.

After brushing her teeth, she reached for her phone again, quickly skimming through messages and emails.

Her fingers swiped absentmindedly across the screen as she mentally prepared for the day ahead. She sighed and set her phone down on the bathroom counter, staring at herself in the mirror.

"I should probably stop procrastinating..." she muttered to herself before grabbing the bathrobe from the hook by the door.

The bathroom mirror fogged up as the warm water from the shower cascaded over her, the hot steam filling the small space. Mara closed her eyes as she let the water wash over her, the droplets soothing her tired skin.

Her body relaxed under the pressure of the hot water, the stiffness of the day before slowly melting away. Her thoughts drifted to her family-grandpa, her Mom , and the complex webs of emotions that tied them all together.

She didn't know why her thoughts always turned so dark in the mornings, but it was a pattern she had grown used to.

There was always something she couldn't quite grasp, something out of reach.

But today...today, she hoped she could at least make a little bit of sense of it all.

After her shower, she stepped out and wrapped herself in a towel, the dampness clinging to her skin.

She ran her fingers through her wet hair, brushing it back as she glanced at the clock. 8:10 AM.

After her bath, Mara stepped out of the bathroom, feeling slightly refreshed but still weary.

The soft hum of the hairdryer filled the room as she dried her damp hair, the warm air brushing against her skin, helping her feel more awake.

She stood in front of her wardrobe, pulling out her school dress-a simple yet neat uniform that she had grown used to over the years.

As she dressed, her thoughts wandered, but she quickly brushed them aside, focusing on the task at hand.

Her ponytail was neat and tight as she gathered her books from the desk, slipping them into her school bag.
She swung the bag over her shoulder and glanced at the clock. 8:45 AM.

I need to hurry, she thought to herself, though a heavy sigh escaped her lips as she realized there was one more thing she had to do before she could leave.

Mara walked out of her room and headed down the corridor. Her footsteps were soft, but the weight of the day ahead felt heavy in her chest.

She reached the door of Lola's room and, without much thought, knocked softly.

There was no answer.

Mara bit her lip in frustration. She knocked again, a little harder this time.
Still, there was no response. Her patience was quickly wearing thin.

"She better not be still sleeping..." Mara muttered under her breath.

Taking a deep breath, she opened the door quietly, only to be met with the sight of her Lola-her mother by heart, not by blood-lying sprawled across the bed, face buried in the pillow, snoring softly.

Mara's lips tightened in annoyance. "How does she sleep through everything?" she thought. But there was no time for this.

She walked up to the bed, standing at the edge for a moment as she looked at her Lola.

She shook her head before leaning down and gently shaking Lola's shoulder.

"Mum, wake up," she called softly at first, but there was no sign of movement.

Mara sighed, exasperated. "Of course..." she muttered, feeling the familiar frustration rise inside her. This was a daily battle.

She shook Lola harder this time, calling out once more, "Wake up!"

Lola groaned in her sleep, muttering something about wanting to sleep for five more minutes, turning her face away from Mara, as if the world didn't exist.

Mara could feel the annoyance boiling over now. She wasn't in the mood for patience, not this morning. She did the unthinkable-

she grabbed both of Lola's legs and jerked them from the bed.

Lola's eyes shot open immediately, panic flashing across her face as she tried to grab the edge of the bed to steady herself.

"What the hell, Mara?" Lola exclaimed in a dazed voice, looking up at her with wide eyes. "Are you crazy?!"

Mara, not feeling the slightest bit of sympathy, shot back, "Get up. It's time for school. You're dropping me off today."

Lola, still half-asleep and visibly rattled, tried to sit up, but her limbs were tangled in the sheets, and she almost toppled over.

"What is this stupid girl doing?" Lola muttered, trying to get her bearings. "I'm gonna fall if you keep this up!"

Mara's face remained unchanged. "I don't care," she said flatly, her tone sharp.
She watched as Lola scrambled to sit upright, her wild hair sticking out in all directions.

Lola's hand flew to her forehead, rubbing it with irritation.

"Well, I do care, you little brat," she said, her voice dripping with exhaustion. "Now put me down. You're gonna break me before you break a sweat, seriously."

Mara, satisfied that she had managed to wake her up, finally released Lola's legs, stepping back and crossing her arms. "Now get up. I'm gonna be late."

Lola slumped back against the headboard, breathing heavily with a sigh of relief.

"You're impossible, Mara. Absolutely impossible," she grumbled, looking at her like she had just gone through a battle.

Mara, however, was already halfway out the door, ready to get this day over with.

"I'll be ready by the time you get dressed," she said over her shoulder, her tone still laced with impatience.

Lola, still trying to get her bearings, muttered something under her breath about having to "deal with this every morning," but she didn't have much time to argue. With a reluctant groan, she got up from the bed, rubbing her face with both hands. "Alright, alright, I'm getting up. You owe me for this, Mara."

Mara didn't stick around to hear her complain. She was already back in the hallway, picking up her school bag and heading toward the front door.

"Don't take too long, Mum!" she called, before slipping her shoes on and stepping out, ready to face the day.
Lola, who had just begun to straighten herself up, suddenly froze, her hand hovering mid-air as something popped into her mind. "Wait!" she suddenly shouted, her voice full of excitement.

Mara, who had already turned to head out, snapped back around with a raised brow, clearly confused. "What?"

Lola's eyes lit up as she practically bounced over to Mara, grabbing her by the shoulder with a tight squeeze. "Happy birthday!" she exclaimed, her tone as cheerful as it could get.

Mara blinked, momentarily taken aback. She hadn't thought about it much, having been caught up in the usual rush of daily life. "Thanks," she said nonchalantly, her voice almost flat, though there was a hint of acknowledgment.

Lola's face brightened as she saw Mara's reaction, clearly not satisfied with the lack of enthusiasm. "You're turning 18 today! This is a huge milestone! So, what's the plan? What are you going to do to celebrate your special day?" she asked, her hands gesturing in excitement.

Mara shrugged slightly, a soft sigh escaping her lips. "Nothing," she said, her tone almost indifferent.

Lola's jaw dropped as she stared at her, the surprise clear on her face. "What do you mean 'nothing'? You're not even a little excited? It's your 18th birthday, for heaven's sake! No parties? No celebrations? Not even a club night?" Lola's voice was filled with disbelief, as if she couldn't imagine being indifferent on such an important day.

Mara's face remained unchanged as she replied in her usual calm, almost monotone voice, "It's just another day. I have more important things to focus on than wasting time on birthdays."

Lola raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "More important things? Like what? You're telling me you don't want to celebrate the one day that's all about you? The one day where you can have fun, be happy, and make memories?"

Mara let out a small sigh, rolling her eyes in a way that showed her exhaustion with the topic. "Celebrating my birth is not something I feel the need to make a big deal about. I'm not going to throw myself a party because I'm a year older. I'd rather achieve something bigger and celebrate that. That's what would bring me happiness, not some random celebration."

Lola's eyes widened, genuinely surprised by Mara's outlook. "You're not even a little curious about going to a club? You're 18! You should be out there, enjoying life, living it up. What's with all this serious talk about 'big achievements' and 'work'? Sometimes you have to live in the moment, enjoy the little things."

Mara's voice remained level, but there was a trace of sarcasm as she added, "Clubs and parties aren't my thing. I don't need to get drunk and dance around with a bunch of strangers to have fun."

Lola threw her hands up in the air dramatically. "What a boring teen I've got. Honestly, you're impossible!" she huffed, clearly feeling defeated by Mara's indifference.

Mara turned to face her, a sarcastic smile tugging at her lips. "Bear it," she said with a smirk, her tone playful yet stern. "Now, get ready fast. We're not done with the day just because you don't have a party to throw me."

Lola rolled her eyes, but a small smile crept onto her face. She had known Mara was never the type to follow the typical teenage excitement, but deep down, she still wished her niece would let loose a little.

Still, she admired Mara's focus and determination, even if it did make her birthday somewhat anticlimactic.

"Alright, alright," Lola said, shaking her head but chuckling softly. "I'll get ready, but I'm still planning to make sure you have a good birthday, even if you won't let me throw you a party."

Mara smiled at her, feeling a sense of affection for Lola, even though she often thought of her as a bit much. She walked back to the hallway, shaking her head. "I'll be waiting downstairs," she called over her shoulder.

Before she left, she looked back at Lola and, in a quiet, affectionate tone, added, "Thanks, Mom."

Lola paused, hearing Mara's words, and something soft flickered across her face. It was the kind of moment that meant more than any birthday party ever could. "Yeah," Lola said quietly, as her smile softened. "You're welcome, sweetheart."

✨✨

Mara walked into the living room, her footsteps soft and measured, the familiar scent of fresh morning air and coffee filling the room. There, sitting on the sofa with the morning newspaper in hand, was her grandpa, Hoon-suk.

His aura was as commanding and regal as ever, even in the quiet, peaceful morning light. His silver hair gleamed faintly under the light, and his sharp, calculating gaze never seemed to lose its focus.

A small smile tugged at Mara's lips as she stood by the doorway, watching him for a moment, admiring the man who had been a pillar of strength in her life.

He was the steady force that had carried her through every hardship, always providing for her and guiding her with wisdom.

Despite his strictness, Mara had always felt safe under his watchful eye.

"Good morning, Grandpa," Mara said softly, her voice full of warmth as she walked over to where he sat.

Hoon-suk's eyes lifted from the newspaper, and a gentle smile spread across his face as he regarded her. His eyes, despite their age, held the same sharpness as ever, reflecting a deep affection for his beloved granddaughter.

"Good morning, dear. Happy birthday," he said, his voice low but filled with care.

"Thanks," Mara replied, her tone light, but her heart warmed at his words.

Hoon-suk put the newspaper aside, his movements deliberate, as he motioned for Mara to join him. With a soft chuckle, he patted the spot beside him on the sofa.

Mara moved to sit beside him, her heart swelling with affection as she settled next to him.
She admired how comfortable he made her feel-safe, loved, and cherished.

Hoon-suk looked at her with a gentle smile, his eyes softening as he spoke in his usual calm, commanding tone.

"What do you want for your birthday, Mara?" His voice held a certain fondness, but there was a clear determination in his words.

Mara sighed, leaning back slightly as she looked at her grandpa.

"Honestly, I don't want anything, Grandpa." Her answer was sincere, but she could see the disappointment flicker across his face.

Hoon-suk chuckled, shaking his head in amusement as he reached out to gently caress Mara's head, his hand tender despite his often hard exterior.
"I know, Mara. You're not one to ask for much, but I can't just let you turn 18 without giving you something. You've grown up so quickly, and you deserve something special, even if it's not something you'd normally ask for."

A soft, knowing smile formed on Mara's face as she met his gaze. Her respect for Hoon-suk ran deep, and she cherished these quiet moments with him more than anything.

"I have everything because of you, Grandpa," she said, her voice warm with affection. "You've given me everything I need. What more could I want?"

Hoon-suk's smile softened as he gazed at her, his heart swelling with pride. He had raised her with everything he could, and it filled him with a sense of pride to see her so self-sufficient, mature beyond her years.

But he still wanted to give her something special, something that would let her know how deeply he cared for her, how much she meant to him.

He thought for a moment, and then his eyes twinkled with mischief. "Well, if you really don't want anything else, how about this? Let's go out for dinner. I know you've been tired of the usual meals lately. We can try something different."

Mara's smile widened at the suggestion. The thought of eating out always sounded good, especially since she rarely got a chance to leave the house. "That sounds great, Grandpa," she said, her voice light and content. "But, just one condition."

Hoon-suk raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What's that?" he asked, genuinely curious.

"Only vegetarian," Mara said with a teasing smile. "You know how strict your diet is."

Hoon-suk laughed, his deep chuckles resonating through the room. "Of course. You know me too well." He shook his head, still amused. "Only vegetarian, then. But we'll go after 7 PM. I have some work to finish before that."

Mara nodded, feeling a sense of peace settle over her. She didn't need any extravagant presents or grand gestures. Spending time with her grandpa and Lola, even in the simplicity of a dinner out, was enough to make her feel loved and cherished.

"Thank you, Grandpa," she said softly, looking up at him with genuine gratitude. "It means a lot to me."

Hoon-suk's gaze softened, his hand resting briefly on her shoulder as a silent gesture of affection.
"You don't need to thank me, Mara. You're my everything. I'm just happy to see you happy." His voice, though firm, held a tenderness that only she could truly understand.

Mara smiled, leaning her head against his shoulder for a moment, letting the moment settle into her heart.

In this moment, she realized that the love between them, quiet and strong, was the greatest gift she could ever ask for.

"I love you, Grandpa," she said quietly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Hoon-suk's chest tightened with emotion as he looked down at her, his voice as steady as ever, though it carried a deep warmth. "I love you too, Mara. Always."

"I love you three, Mara!"

Mara turned her head at the sound of the dramatic voice, rolling her eyes before meeting the source.

Standing in the doorway, arms dramatically outstretched as if she were the lead in a play, was Lola-her grandpa's daughter and, Mara's aunt aka her sassy mum.

She was decked out in her usual flair, looking like she was ready to step into some kind of high-profile event, her makeup on point and her dress pressed to perfection.

Mara sighed, already knowing what was coming. This woman had a flair for the theatrical that could never be contained.

"Yeah, yeah," Mara muttered under her breath, turning to her grandpa for some kind of relief. "Miss Diva strikes again."

Lola raised an eyebrow, a grin creeping onto her face as she leaned against the doorframe. "What's the matter, Miss Cool? Got a problem with the best aunt in the world?"

"You're the best at being dramatic, that's for sure," Mara shot back, sarcasm dripping from her voice as she stood up, ready to get the show on the road.

Lola scoffed, fanning herself dramatically. "Excuse me, young lady, I've raised you to be classy and proper, yet you still have the nerve to be this sarcastic?"
She threw a side glance at Hoon-suk, who was watching the exchange with a bemused expression, clearly enjoying his daughter's antics.

Mara shook her head. "Classy? More like chaos in a fancy outfit," she quipped, glancing at Lola's outfit with a smirk.

Lola gasped, clutching her chest as if she'd been mortally wounded. "The nerve! I've been up since dawn, planning your perfect day, and you throw shade like it's nothing!" she exclaimed, throwing her hands up as if the world was about to end.

Mara couldn't hold back her smile, rolling her eyes once more. "Okay, okay, enough with the drama. Let's just go, or I'll be late." She stepped toward the door, grabbing her bag.

"Late? Oh, please," Lola said, placing her hands on her hips. "You know you can't leave this house without your personal driver, Miss Princess." She tilted her head, smirking at Mara with a playful wink.

" And that driver is you miss Lola! " Mara cooly stated.

Lola looks disbelief , her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Thank you for the royal escort, Your Highness. I will try not to keep you waiting while I prepare for my grand entrance into the real world."

Mara said sarcastically, "It would be such a privilege to be blessed by your grace, my lord."

Lola raised an eyebrow, giving Mara a once-over. "Ah, the sass. It's strong with this one." She looked over at Hoon-suk, shaking her head with a mock solemn expression. "You see this? This is the future of our family, huh? Pure attitude and zero patience."

Mara snorted, playfully nudging her aunt. "Better than pure drama with zero filter," she shot back.

"Touché," Lola replied, giving a dramatic bow, making sure to overdo it for the full effect. "Alright, let's get this birthday girl out of here before she starts complaining about my presence again."

Hoon-suk chuckled from his spot on the sofa, watching the two women banter back and forth.

"You two really are something else," he remarked, his voice full of fondness as he observed his daughter and granddaughter's antics.

Mara couldn't help but laugh, her frustration melting away. "Alright, I'm coming," she said, giving Lola a playful push toward the door. "Let's get this over with. I'm starving anyway."

"That's the spirit!" Lola responded, dramatically placing her hand over her heart. "To the car, my lady!"

Mara shook her head in disbelief as she followed Lola out of the living room, both of them making their way to the car while Hoon-suk smiled contentedly from the sofa.

To be continue...