𝐌𝐫. 𝐊𝐢𝐦

17

The first thing you notice upon entering the Kim's mansion in Ilsan is how simple and casual this birthday party is.

You're surprised, to say the least, having witnessed this family's grandiose traditions in the past - particularly Mrs. Kim's events - you expected the whole neighborhood, and some of the most cogent people to be invited. But as you look around the spacious living room and the bright chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, you are met with faint classical music and muffled sounds somewhere in the kitchen.

The posh lady is the first to greet you with zeal in front of the grand staircase. She looked delighted as ever, and even more youthful than the last time you saw her. Looking at her, you could already tell she was Namjoon's mother by the way she exudes confidence and an engaging aura. He's even got her eyes and lips, luring and full.

It's no surprise that the woman drew the Chairman's attention, who also happened to be civil with you. It still surprises you sometimes - the fact that your life wasn't some kind of a depiction of a Drama series in which you were despised by your boss's family.

But it wasn't like that at all. It was far from that.

"Happy Birthday, Mrs. Kim," you greet her with a smile as she drops her arms from your shoulders, the same expression painted across her face. You notice her attire, her elegant gown pooling at the tips of her soles. It's an off-shoulder, forest green dress from a luxury brand you've never heard of. Could be exclusive from Dolce & Gabbana, who knows?

"Thank you, dear. I'm only getting older by the day," She waves her hand in the air before encircling Namjoon in a motherly embrace. He wraps his arm around her tiny waist before acknowledging his father.

"You're late," the Chairman speaks with a calm tone. He's not irritated; just hates tardiness. He despises it, and anything less than perfect punctuality for a social engagement is considered impolite. His obsession with time wears thin after a while; he simply excuses Mrs. Kim because he loves her.

Namjoon lets out a groan, "C'mon, Dad. It was only five minutes. Traffic was horrible." It's true, traffic is extremely congested in Seoul, and it's even worse on Saturdays. You weren't so fortunate to be stuck in rush hour.

"Then you should've departed sooner."

Mrs. Kim shakes her head at her husband as she says, "Dear, don't be one of those old grumpy dads. It doesn't suit you."

We all laugh, including Seokjin, who emerges from the kitchen with an apron tied around his waist, concealing a Burgundy dress shirt tucked into a pair of black pants. As soon as we make eye contact, we both crack a smile. He licks his lips before uttering, "The eldest Kim brother, here to save the day!"

Namjoon chuckles and rolls his eyes. Seokjin pulls him into a bro hug, "Gosh, you both couldn't wait for me to finish up in the kitchen?" He mumbles to his parents, who rushed to greet you and Namjoon as soon as his Black Mercedes pulled up into the driveway.