“Don’t you dare Jung Yonghwa!” Joohyun calls out as she enters her husband’s private room.

“Buin - I really don’t need this.” Yonghwa holds up his arm that had an IV.

“Yes you do - now stop harassing Naeun and Nurse Park about that IV or I’ll put you in the family suite at Jung Shin Hwa Memorial! I mean it!” She blinked back tears as she sits on the chair opposite her husband.

“It’s only until you feel better. Am I asking too much?”

“I’m better now.” He sits up and looks at his wife. “Really.”

“Really - doesn’t cut it Jung Yonghwa.  You’ve been here in your office for 10 days - not coming home, not seeing your children. The twins were crying when I left them at home - they wanted to come and see you. Oppa - chaebal - if you can’t come home then at least take care of yourself. I’m not the only one worried about you!”

“Come here.” He opens his arms.

Joohyun lets herself be cuddled and kissed by her husband. He was sweet and warm but very hard headed.  Knowing him he would finish this nightmare that started 3 months ago.

“We’re losing money Hwejangnim - a lot.  We may not be able to keep the Russian mines and the Northern China explorations operating at this rate.” Director Rae Won looks at the CEO of CNB Holdings. “It’s either the mines close or we sell 3 corporations.”

“Or CNB Holdings goes public.” CFO Ok Taekyeon looks at his boss.  CNB Holdings was one of the last private holding companies in Korea and in Asia. “Just say the word.  We can start the process.”

“And kill my father as well.” Yonghwa answers. “Not in his lifetime or mine. I can’t.”

“Then we’ll have to start looking immediately  for funds to borrow for the collateral to get the bank loan approved soon.” Taekyeon looks at his boss. “Because your private funds won’t be ready in time.”

The problem was that people often thought that chaebols were rolling in money.  Yonghwa was a billionaire by the time his twins were born. Yet his assets and his family’s were not always liquid - they were usually tied up in trust funds, hedge funds, buildings, land, stocks and bonds -  most of which were abroad. It would take time to unravel and turn them to liquid cash but time was not what Yonghwa or CNB Holdings had.

They had 5 more weeks to come up with a collateral of $800 million US dollars  for the proposed $4 Billion US Dollars loan that CNB Holdings was taking in order to rehabilitate 3 corporations and to continue with the Russian mines and the Northern China explorations.

The Chairman Emeritus, his father, had specifically told Yonghwa - or rather yelled at him - that he would sentencing his parents to an early grave if CNB Holdings went public.  Miss Jung was nearing her 90th birthday and the Jung family would not agree.

Well Yonghwa yelled right back at his father that the Jung family had better get their act together and help CNB Holdings with the cash flow problem.  It didn’t help the old man’s temper that Yonghwa reminded his father that the Russian mines and the Northern China mineral explorations were all from his time as CEO of CNB Holdings not Yonghwa’s.

The Chairman Emeritus had called his son an ungrateful brat and told him leave the house. All the household staff had to close their eyes and cover their ears as doors slammed and several china cups and saucers were hurled at the walls. The fight greatly distressed Yonghwa’s mother and his wife because father and son were of the same temperament. Both would not back down.

A week after that, the Jung family were gathered by the former and current Samonims of CNB Holdings. The  Chairman Emeritus and the current CEO were barred from attending by their respective wives. Every elder was instructed to contribute a specific amount in order to raise the required monies to cover the interest of the loans that would be incurred. Every adult Jung family member was made aware that failure to assist CNB Holdings would mean a very significant change in their lifestyles.

Many Jung family members especially the younger ones did not see anything wrong with CNB Holdings going public - it was the business trend and as long as Yonghwa continued as CEO there would not be any problem.

The older Jung family members however vehemently disagreed and voiced loudly that it was mismanagement  that caused the problem. Another Jung could replace Yonghwa. The Elders had a list of names which they handed to the former Samonim just as the meeting started. This brought tears to her eyes and she had to let Joohyun handle the proceeding while she retired to the adjacent room. Eunji was given very strict instructions by Atty. Kap Soo not to let the list be leaked out to the press.

When she learned about the list it angered Miss Jung so much that Yunho had to request a break in the meeting so that he could examine the Jung Head Elder. When her palpitations stabilized the old lady told her relatives that she was giving Yonghwa all the money she had in all her accounts in Korea, Germany and Switzerland.  In a trembling voice she told her relatives that not one of them was getting a single cent or property from her because they dared to lay the blame on her grandnephew.

“This is not the time to lay the blame on anyone.” Atty. Kap-Soo stands on the podium and addresses the Jung family. “And for the young ones who said that going public is acceptable  as long as Jung Yonghwa is the CEO - yes that would be fine however this may not be the case. The new CEO will be elected by the new Board of Directors that may or may not be composed of the current CNB Holdings Corporate Heads. The majority shareholder will always put the CEO of their choice.”

“But won’t the Jung family still be the majority stockholder?” One of the younger Jungs ask.

“Possible yes - if the Jung family has enough shares then CEO Jung can still be the CEO when CNB Holdings becomes public but Jung Jae Hwa will no longer the CNB Holdings Heir. He will only be the Jung Heir - these 2 titles will no longer be interrelated. There are legalities and boardroom battles that will be waged once CNB Holdings goes public.”

Joohyun closes her eyes and swallows.

It hurt - unbearably so - her husband was so stressed out that she no longer knew what to do. Her heart hurt so much for Jae - who had been going to office with his father every school break since he was 14. Jae had been groomed for this all his life. Her son’s calm voice floods her mind - even in the midst of all of this her eldest had taken her aside and told her that it didn’t matter if he wasn’t the CNB Holdings heir anymore - the only thing that mattered was that his father was well and that they were still together as a family.

“Omma - gwenchana?” A warm hand pulls her aside and an arm encircles her waist. Joohyun looks into the worried eyes of her eldest son. “Don’t be stressed - there is a solution to everything - it may not be what we want but there is a solution. Appa will think of a way.”

Joohyun leans into her son’s chest. She was so worried for Yonghwa and Jae. “Aegiyah - you know it’s not just about the position - your Appa - “

“I know - the people who will lose their jobs - the properties that will need to be sold - the foreign monies lost - I’ve read everything - Appa didn’t keep anything from me.” Jae whispers in her ear. “Now I see Miss Jung’s caretaker waving at me. I need to sit next to her.”

All eyes were on the tall young man who walks towards Miss Jung. At 22 years of age, Jung Jae Hwa was acknowledged as one of the most promising students in Sungkyunkwan University’s College of Economics. His handsome face breaks into a smile as he holds Miss Jung’s hand. He sits next to her and tucks her hand in his arm. His paternal grandmother , the former Samonim, had initially balked at Jae’s attendance in the family meeting not wanting her eldest grandchild to be hurt by the often times harsh comments of their relatives but Miss Jung had insisted that Jae attend the meeting because he was the Jung Heir.

“As you know - time is of the essence. We need to know how much money we can put up  and what actions will be taken should we not be able to raise the required collateral monies. We will need your responses by the end of the week.  Please send the signed transfer documents to the Legal Department - those of you who work at CNB Holdings know the procedure, those who do not know the procedure please contact Atty. Lee Jonghyun’s office - his cards are on the table to the right of the exit door.” Atty. Kap-soo steps off the podium amidst the general clamor that followed.

“Buin - I have another meeting in 30 minutes -I promise to finish the IV when I come back.”  Yonghwa pulls out the IV needle, puts a band aid on and rolls his sleeve back. He stands up and holds out his hand to his wife. “Do you want to wait for me?”

Joohyun fixes his tie and helps him with his coat.  Her husband had a smile on his face as she finger combs his hair. She looks at him and steps back.

“Always. I will wait for you always.”

“That’s my girl. Can you check the toiletries in the bathroom ?  I’m running out of shaving cream -” He kisses her neck and breathes in her scent. It always calmed him.

“I didn’t bring any change of clothes for you.” Joohyun looks at him. “Because you’re going home with me - even if I have to make the guards carry you out.”

“Joohyun - “

“Not another word. You’re going home and that’s final. You’re sleeping in our bed. Your children miss you terribly - video calls are not enough. The little ones - they ask about you - and I can’t - “ She swallows her tears  and shakes her head. “No - you’re coming home. Even if I have to fetch you - you’ll come home everyday.”

“Ara - ara - no need to cry.” Yonghwa embraces her. “Oppa will come home.”

After Yonghwa left, Naeun comes in and puts down a tray.  Saltine crackers, a cucumber dip with a pot of tea and Yonghwa’s coffee mug.

“Samonim - it’ll be a while so I’ve set up with refreshments and finger food.” Nauen looks at the Samonim of CNB Holdings. “I’ll wait as well.”

“But Taemin -”

“Not to worry - he knows this is a critical time. He’ll be at the apartment and will just fetch me when I call.”

Joohyun nods her head.  

“Noonas don't worry I won’t propose to Nauen until everything is over.” Taemin looks at Yoona and Joohyun. He pockets the pretty pink diamond engagement ring that he got for Naeun. “Knowing her - she’ll tell me to wait.”

She pours herself a cup of tea. Inhaling the warm minty smell Joohyun wills herself to be calm. Leaning back she surveys her husband’s private room.

The oil painting he commissioned of Joohyun in her wedding gown dominated the room.  She shakes her head when she remembers how shocked she was when she learned how much the painting had cost.

“Uhm - sonseangnim.” Joohyun looks at the old man. “May I take a break?”

“Agassi - you know I need to get the proper lighting and you already had your bathroom break a while back.  What is it now?”

“Uhm - my - my - “ Joohyun stammers.

The french doors open and her mother in law comes in with a wailing infant.

“Ah - it’s the time for the little one - alright but make it fast. No more breaks after this.”

Joohyun stands and takes her crying baby. “Shhh...Omma is here…  baby Jae-jae….”

When they get to the bedroom, her mother in law helps Joohyun remove the top of  her gown so she could feed the infant.

“Sit comfortably - no need to rush Ddal… it must have been painful for you.” Her mother in law looks at the young woman feeding her grandson. Joohyun had slimmed down enough to fit back into her wedding gown but barely since she was still feeding Jae.

“I was just afraid of the milk leaking and staining the dress, Samonim.” Joohyun murmurs.

“It’s all because your husband is such an impatient man!” Samonim frowns and hits the speed dial of her mobile.

“Jung Yonghwa! You impatient brat! Your baby had to have a crying fit before Joohyun could feed him! I told you we should have postponed the painting until Jae is weaned! As soon as you’re finished with your classes come home so you can take care of Jae! Jigeum!”

But when the final portrait was unveiled it took their breath away.  Every facet and detail of the wedding gown was shown, the blushing face of the young bride seated and bathed in the morning sunlight was beautiful to behold. It was a masterpiece. It also had Joohyun gasping when Min Sun told her the exact cost since Yonghwa refused to tell her.

“Mwoh? It’s going to hang where? In the CEO’s private room? You spent that much money for your wife’s portrait and it’s just going to hang in that small room?” Samonim looks aghast at her son.

“It’s my wife’s portrait and I want it to be where I can see it. Everyday. For now it’ll be in our bedroom but when I become Hwejangnim it’ll be moved to CNB Holdings.”

“Joohyun what do I do with your husband?” Samonim looks at her daughter in law.

“He is the owner of the painting Samonim.” Joohyun tries to placate her mother in law as they watch her husband hold the baby in his arms. Yonghwa was kissing the baby’s little fingers and whispering softly totally unmindful of his mother’s irritation.

“Ah you're just as bad as he is!” Her mother in law exclaims. “The carpenters will come tomorrow to hang it in your room.” Giving her son one last glare before going up the stairs.

“Oppa your Omma is upset with you.” Joohyun tells her husband.

“Ara.” Yonghwa looks up and smiles at his wife. “Gomawo for understanding me. Now, Appa and Jae-jae are going up the room to play.”

Joohyun takes one last look at her portrait and sighs - her husband was truly chaebol. “Wait for me Oppa - I want to play with Jae-jae too!”

Then there was the gallery of photos of their children.  Every 100th day, every birthday, graduation photos - from Jae to So-so.  The pictures were all lined up on the wall.

Their babies.

“You’ll run out of walls soon Oppa.” Joohyun remarks as they watch the carpenters hang the kindergarten photos of the twins right next to their the 100th day pictures.

“Nonsense - you just want me to take out your portrait.” He puts his arm around her shoulder. “Not going to happen. It stays here with me where I can look at it when I’m lying down on the sofa.”

When the carpenters leave he turns and smiles mischievously at his wife. “Do you want to lie down with me on the sofa Buin? We can look at the portrait together.”

“Ah cham! All you know is to tease me Jung Yonghwa!” Joohyun’s nostrils flare.

“Oh, I know a lot of other things to do with you Seo Joohyun.” He smiles and pulls her down to sit on his lap. “You do remember that the door automatically locks from the inside.”

And being his wife, she does go into the bathroom and takes note of the toiletries that needed to be refilled. Towels, blankets, his favorite neck pillow, dress shirts, ties, pants, socks, shoes, slippers - Joohyun checks them and notes down what to bring next time.

She finishes the last of the tea and brings out a bottle of water. Again she checks the contents and was satisfied - Naeun kept the small refrigerator stocked with water, his favorite aloe drink and 3 small bars of the white chocolate that he loves. On the top of the ref was a tin of butter cookies that Joohyun knew Naeun bought from a small bakeshop clear across the other side of Seoul just because Yonghwa likes them so much.

“Ah your Assistant spoils you as much as I do, Hwejangnim.” Joohyun sighs. She opens her tablet and video calls her children.

“Omma - is Appa coming home today?” Jaeyah asks her mother.

“Appa is coming home with Omma but we may be late - you have to sleep early because there’s school tomorrow.” Joohyun replies.

“But Omma -”

“Jaeyah be good. Appa will come home and you’ll see him before you go to school tomorrow. So-so - talk to Omma.”

“Appa okay?” Her youngest boy’s face was worried. “Not sick?”

“No Appa is not sick little one - Appa is just busy with work.” Joohyun replies. “Now be good and you’ll see Appa tomorrow before going to school.”

“Now Omma talk to Hyungs and Noona correct?” So-so asks.

“Correct. Eat well little ones!” Joohyun replies and then 3 more worried faces look at her.

“Is Appa really coming home?” Jae asks.

“Deh Aegiyah - Appa is coming home today with Omma.” Joohyun assures her 3 older children.

“Omma - did Appa have an IV?” Aeyah asks. “That’s an IV stand behind you.”

“Yes, well -” Joohyun nods. “Appa is tired and -”

“Omma bring Appa home. We miss him.” Sun tells his mother. “It doesn’t matter - whatever happens it doesn’t matter - like Hyung said as long as Appa is well and we are together -” Her middle son chokes and swallows.

“Yah - what are you saying?” Aeyah rubs her brother’s back. “ Jae Oppa said it’ll fine - so it will be fine. Arasso?”

“Jae - have these two finished their homework? The babies?” Joohyun asks her eldest.

“Everything is taken cared of Omma. “ Jae replies.

Ever since this happened Jae always made sure his siblings would not bring any further worries to his parents. He supervised everything - homework, tutor, sports activities, weekend activities, meals and sleep time.

“Let’s go Sunah - Omma wants to talk to Jae Oppa.” Aeyah pulls her younger brother. “Omma goodnight. I promise to sleep early - I ate my all vegetables - I ate my lunch - did my homework.”

“Noona, what are you 5?” Sunah frowns at his sister. “Omma - don't worry about us - Jae Hyung takes care of us really well.  Goodnight! Saranghae Omma!”

“Saranghae my babies!” Joohyun replies.

“So how did everything go Omma?” Jae asks his mother as soon his brother and sister leave the room.

“As far as Naeun told me - we are 200 million short.  Appa’s already raised 500 million that includes the 100 million from the Jung relatives and Miss Jung’s.”

“Omma we still have to prepare for the interest - that’s another hurdle.”

“Your harabuji has already prepared the monies for that Aegiyah.  Your halmoni gave the transfer documents to Minhyuk Samchon a few days ago.”

“I don't know why you won’t let me contribute my -”

“Jae-jae your Appa will get angry again. You know he doesn’t want any of you and your siblings’  trust funds to be affected by this.”

“But Omma -”

“Ara- ara - Omma knows - Omma isn’t allowed either. Appa wants only his personal monies to be involved not ours. Like you I am still trying to understand.”

“So the meeting tonight is -”

“To prepare to meet the private group that will be handling the loans. The Ku Financial Group will be arriving next week - their CEO and their CFO. Like us it is family owned - the father  Steven Ku is the CEO and the daughter Yujin Ku is the CFO. They are based in LA.”

“Omma - they’re ruthless. Their finance group grew in a span of 10 years. The rates are sky high.”

“Ara - but they are able to give the $800 million collateral that we need right now for the banks to fund the $ 4 Billion loan. We’ll pay off the $800 million collateral in 90 days as soon as all the assets are transferred and turned into cash. It’s quite a long process but  your Appa said we’ll pay them off.”

“And we won’t go public.”

“No - your Appa will not let that happen. Maybe when you become Hwejangnim that would be an option but not with your Appa and Harabuji.” Joohyun sighs. “Now rest - Appa is still in his meeting.”

When Yonghwa comes back to his office he tells his sleepy Assistant to go home.

“You’ve been pulling too many all nighters Naeun - apologize to your parents on my behalf. Do you want one of the guards to  take you home?” Yonghwa looks on as his Assistant piles yet another batch of documents for him to sign.

“Taemin is waiting for my call Hwejangnim - he will pick me up. Good night, Sir.” Naeun bows to her boss.

“You can be late tomorrow.” Yonghwa calls out as she enters the elevator.

Naeun just smiles and shakes her head.  No way would she be late - her Hwejangnim needed her.  She opens her phone and texts her boyfriend to come and fetch her.  Next she texts a very close friend.

Krystal Unnie - all went well today.  Hwejangnim is finally able to go home. Samonim is here to pick him up.  Tomorrow morning I’ll tell you more after I view the minutes of tonight’s meeting. Again thank you so much Unnie for helping me with Hwejangnim’s presentations I couldn’t have done it without you. Let’s meet up for a meal next week when you’re free - I know Atty. Kang is very busy as well. Good night!

“Ah she’s asleep.” Yonghwa enters the small room and looks at his wife.  The lamplight shone on the pale beautiful face and the shiny hair.

“Joohyunah sweetheart - I’m back.” He sits on the edge of the sofa and leans to kiss her cheek. “Let’s go home now.”

Long lashed eyes flutter open and he just had to marvel again at the porcelain skin that turned to the lightest shade of pink.  He leans to kiss the soft lips and inhale the sweet flowery perfume that he always associated with his wife. 22 years of marriage and she still orders the perfume he personally had made for her by the  Molinard perfumery in Grasse.

“You look so tired.” Joohyun puts her hands on the sides of his face and kisses him. “My poor Oppa.”

“Part of the job.”  He replies. “Now let’s go home.  I am beyond hungry - do you want to eat out before we go home?”

“Aniyo - Cook came over and made you a special meal.  We don’t want to disappoint her.”

“A special meal? For me? Waeyo?”  He pulls her up and like the sweet loving husband that he was - pulls down her skirt  and helps her put her shoes on.

“I must look a mess.” Joohyun murmurs.

“You look fine to me.” He runs his hands on her hair and tucks  the strands behind her ears. “Always pretty - my Samonim.”

They get home to find that their staff and even Cook waited up for them.

“Ahjumma - the young maids can heat up the food for us - you didn’t need to wait up!” Yonghwa tells the old woman who had been their cook since he was a young boy. “Didn’t Appa miss your cooking tonight?”

The old woman just laughs and goes back to the kitchen. The couple could hear her ordering the young maids around.

“Madame is probably with the little ones.” Joohyun sits next to her husband.

“Wow!” Yonghwa looks at all the dishes that the staff placed on the table. “It’s not my birthday yet.”

Sweet and spicy shrimp, japchae, galbi, baked fish and bok choy kimchi salad.

“ Ahjumma! I will eat well.”  Yonghwa calls out. “Ahjumma! Yongie will eat well!”

He kept calling out between mouthfuls of food - not stopping until the laughing old woman comes out and bows to the couple.

“Oppa! You’re so noisy!” Joohyun scolds her husband. “Ahjumma kamsahamnida. Rest now - I will tell the guards to bring you back to the Ommonim’s house tomorrow morning.”

The staff and Joohyun had smiles on their faces as they watch the master of the house eat heartily. At the end of the meal he smiles at the staff and tells them that he ate well.

“Oh, I think I ate too much Buin. My stomach is aching.” Yonghwa tells Joohyun as they prepare to take a shower.

“I have herbal medicine. You can drink it before we brush our teeth.”

“Yuck - can I have an antacid instead?”

“Aniyo! This is much better. You’re in your 40’s already Oppa - you still haven’t gotten used to herbal medicine yet?”

“No and I never will - it’s bitter tasting! Yuck!”

“But you’ll drink it anyway.”  She levels a serious stare at her husband.

“Of course because it’s what you want.” Yonghwa laughs and pulls his wife to the shower stall.  “Stand behind me while I fix the water temperature.”

Joohyun back hugs her husband.  He was still lean and well muscled - working out regularly with Jae and now Sun as well. She had no choice but to keep up - dieting and exercising.  This year her husband made it to the list of the hottest 40 year olds in Asia. She smiles as she remembers how red his face was when Jae, Aeyah and Sun were teasing him about it.

“I bet they would change their minds if they saw Appa in the mornings.” Aeyah had tears of laughter  running down her face. “All his hair standing up at the back of his head -”

“Like a scarecrow!” Sunah lies down on the floor.

“And that’s not even a  bad hair day!” Aeyah exclaims.  “ Ah - my stomach hurts from laughing.”

“Appa we’re only teasing!” Jae’s usually calm face was red cheeked from laughing.

“Your children are ganging up on me Buin.” Yonghwa pouts as he looks at his giggling wife.

“As they should!” Joohyun wipes her tears. “Ah don't look like that Yeobo - my stomach hurts so much…”

As usual, he was his usually choding self and kept teasing her. She was still pouting when they settle down to sleep.

“Ah - you’re still mad at me Buin? Better I just stay in the office?” He gathers her in his arms.

“No! Don't ! Alright I won’t be mad anymore!” She embraces him and pinches his sides when he starts laughing.

“Ack! Buin!” He tries to pull away from her.

“No - come here - you don't know how much I miss you Oppa.” She takes him in her arms and kisses his cheek. “How worried I am about your health - the children and I.”

“Ara - but as you can see I am well.  Jonghyun and Minhyuk were just being mother hens.  I was only slightly dizzy.“

“Oppa - calling the hospital and asking for a nurse to come and put an IV drip is not being a mother hen.  They told me you were really pale and had cold sweat. Don’t you dare lie!”

“Ara - ara - Oppa will take care.” Yonghwa kisses her neck and puts his head on her shoulder. “I’m so tired Buin - let’s sleep.”

Joohyun holds him close until she was sure he was fast asleep before closing her eyes.

The next day….

“NO! “ Sun holds two little bodies against him. “We can’t knock. If Appa and Omma are still asleep we should just let them sleep. Listen to Hyung!”

“But I want to see Appa before school - “ Jaeyah starts to cry and naturally So-so starts to cry as well.

“Jung Jaeyah! Jung So-so!” Sun holds their hands and pulls them towards the stairs. “Let’s eat first then come back. Alright?”

The three younger Jungs find their two older siblings in the breakfast room talking to Madame while waiting for the staff to set up breakfast.  At the sight of their eldest brother the 2 young ones immediately stop whining - it was useless to do this because whining and crying never affected their oldest sibling.

“Hyung- here they are - good thing they didn’t knock on the door yet.” Sun helps the twins sit down. “Now be good and wait for breakfast - no going down from the chairs until you are done!”

“Gomawo Sunah!” Jae tells his brother at the same time leveling a stern look at the twins.

“Jaeyah Noona - don’t cry anymore. Omma and Appa are tired.” So-so leans and whispers to his frowning twin. “We’ll see them if we’re good.”

The 3 eldest ones hid their smiles and start breakfast. Aeyah used to supervise the little ones but Jae noticed that she ate less because of it so the chore was transferred to Sun who didn’t have a problem eating his breakfast at about the same time as the twins.

“C’mon dress up.” Jae tells the twins. “Go now with the girls.” Jae signals the staff to take to Jaeyah and So-so.  

“Jae Oppa not have school?” Jaeyah asks her  eldest brother.

“Jae Hyung has school later.” Sunah replies. “Come on we’ll be late.”

“Not school - university.” So-so corrects his sister. “Jae Hyung goes to university, Noona - remember that. We won’t be late Sunah Hyung - we still have time - the big hand is not yet in number 12 see?” The youngest points to the hallway clock. “And besides Yooh Moh sets it 5 minutes early.”

Jae and Min Sun just had to laugh.  So-so’s vocabulary had grown by leaps and bounds - although he could speak clearer now - the littlest one was still quiet and spoke more like an adult than his twin sister.

“Aeyah finish your food.” Jae levels his gaze at his sister who was wiping with a napkin.

“I’m late Oppa. I have Home Room and I finished ¾ of my food.” She smiles at her brother.

“You’re not late. Finish.” Jae looks at her before he starts eating again. “Don’t make me say it twice.”

Aeyah lowers her head and scowls at her plate.  Jae Oppa was even harder to please - aegyo never worked with him like it worked with their parents and Madame.  Picking up her spoon she finishes her omurice.

“That wasn’t so bad.” He looks at his sister’s empty plate. “Now go and be sure to knock on Sunah’s door so he isn’t late.”

“Oppa this afternoon I have -”

“Ara - tutor then riding practice.” Jae replies. “Be sure to come home right after. Tell your admirers I’m home early today that’s why you have to go home as soon as practice ends.”

Aeyah’s cheeks turn pink and she scowls when she sees Min Sun’s smiling face.

Jae Oppa was strict.  Suitors weren’t allowed yet because Jae Oppa said that their Appa wasn’t ready for that.

Yet.

However they could see her while she practiced but were not allowed to talk to her without the presence of Guard Park.

“As if anyone could get past Park Ahjussi.” She mumbles.  “I’m leaving Madame - thank you for the food!” Aeyah takes her lunch box.

It had cut veggies and a homemade dip made by her Yooh Moh plus a hard boiled egg as per her Omma’s insistence. Aeyah seldom ate the food in the school cafeteria because she felt that it made her fat. A comment that often made her brothers roll their eyes and look angrily at her.

“We’ll wait a few more minutes then I’ll knock.” Jae looks at his younger brothers and sisters. “Appa must be really tired.”

Inside the bedroom, Joohyun wakes up and realizes that she overslept.

“The babies - they must be waiting. Oppa! Oppa! Wake up - the children are waiting to see you.” She gently shakes her husband. Waking Yonghwa up abruptly often resulted in him being grumpy with everyone for hours.

He bolts upright and quickly stands up. “Ah - why didn’t you wake me up sooner Buin? Let’s go!”

They open the door just as Jae was going to knock.

“Appa!”  His younger children run to embrace him as his eldest child looks on.

“We missed you Appa - come home always huh?” Jaeyah tugs her Appa’s hand. “You can’t live in your office!”

“I’m not living in my office. Appa just has work!” Yonghwa chuckles.

“But Appa will come home from now on correct? Jae Hyung said so and Jae Hyung is always right.” So-so holds his Appa’s other hand.

“Of course uri Jae is always right.” Yonghwa hunkers down to kiss his little ones faces. “Appa will come home tonight and every night. Now go you might be late for school.”

“Not to worry Appa - Kim Ahjussi  will always get us to school on time.” So-so tells his father.

Aeyah embraces her father tightly and kisses his neck. “Take care of yourself Appa. Be home tonight - Trainer Lee will make a video of  my practice today for you to comment on.”

“See you tonight Appa!” Sunah gives his father a brief hug and stands in front of Yonghwa. “I’ll play my best this afternoon just for you Appa!”

When the younger children left - Yonghwa and Joohyun take their breakfast with Jae.

“What time is school Jae?” Yonghwa asks his son. “You’re still in your pajamas.”

“10.” Jae replies. “I only have 2 classes today. The other one is at 2.”

“Finding everything alright?” Joohyun asks. She knew that Yonghwa was disappointed that Jae didn’t take up engineering but decided to take up double course of economics and law in SKKU Seoul. In her heart she was happy that her eldest was not in Suwon - she would miss Jae.

“Everything is fine Omma.” Jae replies. “Are you going to work today?”

“Work from home today.” His mother smiles.

“And Appa?” Jae looks at his father.

“I told Naeun I’ll be late today.” Yonghwa replies. “Because it would make your Omma happy.”

When Yonghwa gets to the office he was in better state of mind.  He had talk with his eldest and his wife. They assured him of their support and he in turn gave them updates on what was happening.  All in all he was confident that the Ku Financial Group will give the collateral money next week and that CNB Holdings would be able to get the loan from the bank.  He was also confident that CNB Holdings would be able to pay the Ku Financial Group before the 90 days set in. He made a mental note to himself to call Minhyuk and Jonghyun to come and give him an update on the transfers from the relatives.

That weekend the family had brunch at the Banyan Tree and spent the day there. Yonghwa played a round of golf with Jae, Yunho, Max, Key, Eun Kwan and Soohyun . Sun and Yoon Min watched over the twins and Susy’s little girl Hyun-ji  while Joohyun, BoAh, Eunji, Suzy and Ga Young got massages. Aeyah hung out with her cousins - Eun Kyung and Eun Hee, Eunji’s girls.

“Hyunnie - uri Aeyah has a lot of admirers.” Eunji looks at the group of young people who all say hello the CNB Holdings daughter and Eunji’s daughters.
“Well - she’s allowed too just don’t let her Appa hear me say that.” Joohyun replies.  They were in the pool lounge watching the little ones play with Sun and Min.

“Is he still that way?” Suzy asks. “BoAh Unnie is so lucky she has a boy. I think my husband will be just as bad with Ji-ji. He just loves being the center of  Hyun-ji’s world.”

“Baby - how about giving us a baby?” Bo Ah looks at Ga Young. “You’ve been married for 2 years - your parents are getting impatient.”

The lovely features of the younger woman turns warm pink. “Well - we are trying…”

“Your husband’s a workaholic - all the nurses are crushing on him but they say that he’s such a perfectionist.”  Bo Ah exclaims. “Even my husband says so but I must say Max is being groomed this early to be the next Chief of Orthopedics by Hospital Board of Directors.”

“ Does your nampyeon miss being a doctor? It must be very hectic to be the President and only Son In Law of  Bae Pharmaceuticals.” Joohyun looks at Suzy.

“He bears up pretty well although I’m sure he misses the hospital grind  especially with what is going on with CNB Holdings right now - it’s a balancing act between Bae Pharma and the Shinhwa Hospital Group and my nampyeon treads a fine line between the two. Thankfully he he has a better frame mind and outlook than me and my parents.”

“Hmm….you just want to say that Dr. Kim Soohyun has a perfectly charming personality.” Ga Young gently teases her cousin Suzy.

“Ah but he does!” Bo Ah exclaims.” Dr. Kim is charming and personable - even when he’s out there telling us basically what Bae Pharma medicine to prescribe to our patients - he’s very persuasive….”

The women laugh but turn serious when they ask Joohyun how Yonghwa was bearing up on the pressure of the latest crisis to hit CNB Holdings.

“Hwejangnim is trying his best.  This is the first time in weeks that he’s seen the sunshine and that he’s relaxed.  Next week - meeting the Ku Financial Group - I don't know. What’s the scoop on them Imo? I don't want to ask Hwejangnim. I’m afraid my nampyeon may become tense.” Joohyun look at Eunji.

“Well - Steven Ku is a force to be reckoned with.  How he went from a small lender to a financial group head in 10 years is still a mystery.  He had backers and not all of them legal - but that’s all speculation. Nowadays he’s a respectable man.”

“And the single daughter?” Suzy asks. “She’s a very active socialite in LA.”

“Yes she is. Very much like our Samonim - Yujin Ku is a member of various charities and is active in the LA Korean Chamber of Commerce.  She’s in her 30s and is currently without a boyfriend although I did know that she’d been engaged twice. Apparently her father didn't think both men were good enough for his little girl.”

“The LA social scene shows that she’s a bombshell - all y curves and smouldering looks. Very available.”  Susy adds.

“Well that’s going to rattle Shin Hye’s cage.” Eunji laughs. “Park Industries’ President is also y curves and good looks as well.”

That night Joohyun looks at her husband as he lies down beside her.  He was happy and laughing the whole day - even taking the time to play with the little ones during their bath time.

“Oppa I heard Yujin Ku is very good looking and y.” She looks at her husband.

“I guess. Maybe.” He replies and looks at her. “So?”

“Nothing - I thought you already talked to her and her father in teleconferences.” Joohyun leans closer and examines her husband’s face. “Don’t go to sleep yet - I’ll put a mask on you…”

“Ah Buin no - I’m sleepy! “ He looks at his wife’s back as she goes to  their dressing room.”Buin!”

“It’s only 20 minutes. Promise. Then under the eye serum and a light facial massage… don't pout! I can’t smooth out the mask!” Joohyun tells him. “Promise - promise I’ll let you sleep.”

Yonghwa groans and stays still. “Who cares what I look like anyway?”

“I do - I care.” Joohyun put her head on her husband’s chest. “Don’t sleep or I’ll pinch you.”

“Spousal abuse.” He mutters while playing with her hair.  “I’m sleepy…..”

He was already grumpy by the time Joohyun kisses his lips and whispers good night.  She waits until he’s sleeping deeply before she stands up and heads for the dressing room.

“Hmm… what to wear?” She looks critically at her husband’s wardrobe then at the her tablet. “Let’s see when did Oppa wear this cornflower blue Kiton? Ah perfect - 5 months ago - in one of the weddings we attended in Australia. Perfect - I’ll just have to find another dress shirt color and tie -it’s a whole new outfit!”

By the time Joohyun closes her eyes she had 5 days worth of wardrobe changes for her Oppa.

The next day ...

“You look handsome!” She smiles as steps back and looks appreciatively at her husband.

“Do I look like someone you would lend $800 million US dollars to?” He asks as he leans to kiss her cheek.

“Yes! And yes! More even!” Joohyun giggles.

“Are you working from home again Buin?” Yonghwa asks. He didn’t see any clothes laid out for his wife.

“No not today - Yoona Unnie is coming by and Taemin.  We’ll just have a teleconference with JiSoo Oppa.”

“Still the Blue World Manila?”

“Deh -” Joohyun sighs. “It’s difficult to get permits to add to the current structure.”

“You’re such a successful President - Samonim!” He smiles as they step out of the bedroom.

Joohyun just smiles.  

Blue World Boutique Hotels Group was earning its keep and Joohyun was proud of that.  She and Yoona were still looking for other sites in Asia. There were offers to open in Europe and the USA but both declined - their families still came first.

“Oppa since we’re a subsidiary of the CNB Holdings I really think we should…”

“Buin - the subsidiaries don’t need to contribute - the Board has decided on that.  We can manage.” He pulls her closer and kisses her temple. “Now let’s have breakfast and send the kids off to school.”

“ Dad….it’s so pretty here.” Yujin Ku looks out the limousine’s window. “Is that the main headquarters of  CNB Holdings?” She looks at the tall glass skyscraper. “Impressive.”

“They are chaebol after all.” Her father replies.

Though Korean in nationality, Yujin Ku was  born in LA and was American as apple pie. She could understand Korean - well barely - and her father had never taken her to Korea when she was young.

“Will they understand us Dad? I mean I seldom hear you speak in Korean.”

“Just because you don’t hear me doesn’t mean I don’t speak Korean. When you’re with me everything is conducted in English since I know you don't understand. Are you regretting not taking the Korean lessons?”

“To an extent.” She nods, “But I heard that the CEO and his wife speak English fluently as well as their children.”

“Yes well the Samonim is like you - born and raised in the USA - in New York. She came to Korea to study in university.”

“Is that her name? Samonim?”

“No that’s her title - Samonim. Hwejangnim is Jung Yonghwa’s  title as he is Chairman and CEO of CNB Holdings. Be sure to remember that. These people are sensitive to titles and there is a strict hierarchy in the business world. And Jung Yonghwa is one of the top.”

“If he’s one of the top how come his company er conglomerate needs our money?”

“Make no mistake his family is very, very rich - however being in that status doesn’t mean money is immediately available  and their bank loan needs to be filed in 3 weeks - “

“Dad! I am CFO - I know the money side.  I know they can pay the $800 million with interest - I’m more interested in personalities.”

“Why?”

“Why not?”

“He’s married and his wife is very beautiful.”

“Dad! I know that!”

“Just reminding you. Ah, we’re here already.  Remember -it’s a different world. Don't act too American.”