Arranged Hearts

Chapter 1 - Fatherhood and Solitude

Author's POV

The first light of dawn tiptoed into the expansive penthouse, softly illuminating the sleek, modern furnishings. Kim Taehyung, the enigmatic billionaire CEO, stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows, his sharp gaze fixed on the city below. Dressed in a finely tailored suit, he exuded an air of quiet authority, the lines on his face telling stories of a life marked by both triumphs and heartaches.

In the adjacent room, the smaller but equally sophisticated space that belonged to Taehaan, a young boy of tender years, stirred from his peaceful slumber. The room, adorned with toys and vibrant colors, was a testament to the youthful spirit that inhabited it. Taehaan, with his disheveled hair and sleepy eyes, reached for his stuffed bear, a steadfast companion through the night.

"Dad?" The soft call barely disrupted the hush of the morning. Taehaan's voice carried a gentle innocence, seeking the reassurance of his father's presence.

Taehyung, attuned to his son's every need, entered the room with a quiet grace. "Good morning, Taehaan. Did you sleep well?"

The room, now bathed in the delicate hues of dawn, became a canvas for the father-son interaction that unfolded. Taehaan's eyes lit up, a radiant smile breaking across his face. "Can we have pancakes for breakfast, Dad? The ones with syrup and berries?"

Taehyung's eyes softened, the sternness that often marked his countenance giving way to a rare warmth reserved for his son. "Of course, baby. Let's get ready."

The penthouse, typically a bastion of solitude, resonated with the sounds of their morning rituals. The aroma of brewing coffee wafted through the air, a fragrance that mingled with the distant hum of the city awakening. The chef, an unassuming figure in the background, prepared a breakfast fit for royalty, anticipating the preferences of the young master of the house.

As the pancakes sizzled on the griddle, Taehaan, now dressed in his school uniform, animatedly scampered around the living area. His infectious energy filled the space, creating a lively atmosphere that starkly contrasted the often austere nature of their surroundings.

The table, meticulously set with fresh flowers and fine china, awaited the father-son duo. Taehaan, seated at his designated spot, gazed in awe at the culinary masterpiece before him. Pancakes adorned with syrup and berries, arranged in a manner that transformed breakfast into an art form.

"Dad, look at these! They're like the ones in the storybooks," Taehaan exclaimed, his eyes wide with wonder.

Taehyung, taking his seat, acknowledged the remark with a nod and a subtle smile. "Indeed, they are. Now, let's enjoy our breakfast."

The morning unfolded with the delicate symphony of clinking utensils and the occasional laughter that escaped Taehaan's lips. Each moment, bathed in the soft glow of morning light, revealed a side of Taehung rarely witnessed by the outside world—a father reveling in the simple joy of making his son's morning special.

As breakfast concluded, Yoonji, Taehung's efficient assistant who is in her mid 40s ,entered the penthouse, her tablet in hand, ready to assist with the day's affairs. Taehaan, now fueled by a delightful combination of pancakes and excitement, bombarded her with questions about the day ahead.

"Good morning, Yoonji! Can we go to the park after school today?" Taehaan asked, his enthusiasm palpable.

Yoonji, with a warm smile, ruffled Taehaan's hair. "We'll see, little one. Now, off to school."

With a cheerful goodbye, Taehaan left for school, leaving the penthouse momentarily quiet. Yoonji, with a discreet glance, observed the shift in Taehung's demeanor. The stoic CEO, who ruled the corporate world with an iron fist, seemed to transform into a softer version of himself in the presence of his son.