Heart of a Champion

Episode 5: The Family Dinner

Park Ha Na's parents had invited Ji Chang Wook to a family dinner at their luxurious house in the suburbs of Seoul. Park Ha Na was nervous about the dinner, as she had never introduced any man to her family before. She was afraid of what her parents might think of Ji Chang Wook, her bodyguard, and the man who had been spending a lot of time with her lately.

On the day of the dinner, Ji Chang Wook arrived at the house dressed in a formal suit, looking sharp and professional. He brought with him a bouquet of flowers and a bottle of expensive wine as a gift for the hosts. Park Ha Na was impressed by his thoughtful gesture and the way he presented himself.

As they entered the house, they were welcomed by Park Ha Na's parents with open arms. Her mother complimented Ji Chang Wook's appearance and her father shook his hand firmly, thanking him for accepting the invitation. They led them to the dining room where a feast was laid out on the table.

Ji Chang Wook was seated next to Park Ha Na's father, who asked him about his background and his job as a bodyguard. Ji Chang Wook answered all his questions with confidence and sincerity, impressing him with his professionalism and dedication to his work. Park Ha Na watched them from across the table, feeling relieved that her father seemed to like Ji Chang Wook.

As the dinner progressed, they talked about various topics, including Park Ha Na's work as a successful attorney and her recent business competition with a rival firm. Ji Chang Wook listened attentively, and then shared his own stories about his time in the military and his experience as a bodyguard. He even cracked a few jokes, making everyone laugh.

By the end of the night, Park Ha Na's family had warmed up to Ji Chang Wook and were impressed by his character and charm. Park Ha Na felt a sense of relief and happiness, knowing that her family had accepted the man who had been protecting her and had started to feel like part of their family.

After the dinner, Park Ha Na and Ji Chang Wook walked outside to the garden, admiring the beautiful scenery.

"This is a nice place," Ji Chang Wook said as he looked around. "It must be nice to have a place like this to escape to."

Park Ha Na smiled. "It's one of the perks of being a successful lawyer and CEO. But it's not always easy. I have to work hard to maintain everything I have."

"I know what you mean," Ji Chang Wook said. "I may not have as much as you, but I also work hard to achieve my goals."

Ha Na nodded. "I admire that about you, Chang Wook. You're very dedicated to your work."

"Thank you," he said with a smile. "But I'm also dedicated to protecting you. That's my top priority right now."

"I appreciate that," Ha Na said, looking at him. "You've done a great job so far."

They both fell into a comfortable silence, enjoying each other's company. Finally, Ji Chang Wook spoke up.

"Ha Na, can I ask you something?"

"Sure, what is it?" she replied.

"What are your goals in life? I mean, besides being a successful lawyer and CEO," he said.

Ha Na thought for a moment before answering. "Well, I've always been passionate about fighting for women's and children's rights. I want to make a difference in their lives and help them get the justice they deserve. But I also want to make sure my family is taken care of and happy."

"I see," Ji Chang Wook replied, nodding. "Those are admirable goals. And I have no doubt you'll achieve them."

Ha Na smiled. "Thank you. What about you? What are your goals?"

Ji Chang Wook took a deep breath before answering. "To be honest, I'm not sure. My main focus has always been on my work as a bodyguard. But lately, being with you has made me think about other things. Like maybe starting my own security company or something."

Ha Na raised her eyebrows in surprise. "That's interesting. I think you would be really good at that."

Ji Chang Wook chuckled. "Thanks. It's just a thought for now, but who knows what the future holds."

They continued to talk about their ambitions and dreams, each opening up to the other. As they walked back to the main mansion, Ha Na couldn't help but feel a sense of closeness to Ji Chang Wook. She was starting to see him in a different light, not just as her bodyguard but as a person she could confide in and rely on.

As they entered the house, Ha Na's parents called out to them from the living room. "Come join us, we're about to start a game of cards!"

Ha Na turned to Ji Chang Wook. "You up for it?"

He grinned. "I'm always up for a challenge."

And with that, they joined Ha Na's family for a fun-filled evening of laughter and games.

As they continued their conversation, Park Ha Na's mother approached them with a smile. "You two make a great couple," she said, eyeing Ji Chang Wook.

Ha Na blushed at her mother's comment, but Chang Wook just chuckled. "Thank you, Mrs. Park. But I'm just doing my job."

Her mother waved her hand dismissively. "Nonsense! You're more than just a bodyguard to my daughter. I can see the way you look at her."

Ha Na's younger sister, Ji Yeon, who had been sitting quietly listening to their conversation, piped up. "Ooh, does that mean we'll have a new brother-in-law soon?"

Ha Na groaned and rolled her eyes, but Chang Wook just laughed. "Let's not jump to any conclusions, Ji Yeon. I'm just here to protect your sister."

Their father, who had been sitting silently throughout the dinner, finally spoke up. "Chang Wook, I just want to say thank you for taking care of my daughter. You're like family to us now."

Chang Wook bowed respectfully. "It's my pleasure, sir. I'll continue to do my best to protect her."

As they finished up their conversation and prepared to leave, Ha Na's mother took Chang Wook aside. "You know, Chang Wook, my daughter is a catch. You should consider her seriously."

Chang Wook chuckled nervously. "I'll keep that in mind, Mrs. Park."

Ha Na watched the exchange with amusement, knowing her mother was always on the lookout for potential suitors for her and her sister. As they walked out of the mansion and back to the car, she couldn't help but steal glances at Chang Wook, feeling a flutter in her stomach.