TIME | PARK JIHYO

Just Act Like You Always Have

YEAR 2024

Hyejin’s P.o.V.

I had been working tirelessly for the past few days, more than ever, striving to secure a deal with a renowned businesswoman. If I could seal this, I would undoubtedly reach one trillion won in sales, solidifying my position within my family.

A knock shattered the silence of my office. "Good morning, Sajang-nim," greeted Secretary Kim, holding a bouquet of sunflowers. "This came for you."

"From whom?" I inquired.

"I'm not sure, Sajang-nim," he replied, still holding the flowers. "The delivery man was instructed to mention it was from 'J' if asked. The card here bears the initial," he informed me. "Should I throw it away?"

"No, leave it on my desk," I instructed. "Prepare for the meeting and ensure our legal director is notified."

He nodded before departing. I gazed at the bouquet and retrieved the accompanying card. Furrowing my brows, the handwriting seemed familiar. Out of curiosity, I opened it.

"Today is our wedding anniversary. I chose sunflowers because I know how much you love them. I refrained from making any reservations or planning a surprise like two years ago, as I recall you were quite upset and told me not to repeat it. Last year, I didn't plan anything, yet you were still annoyed that I actually listened and asked if you would die if you told me to."

I was dumbfounded. "Is she nitpicking my inconsistencies?" I scoffed.

"And no, I'm not nitpicking you. Besides, what kind of person brings flowers to nitpick?"

"Has our marriage ever been so lovely that she'd bring flowers on our anniversary?" I mused aloud.

"I know this is an unexpected gift, but I wanted to make a simple change. I hope this doesn't upset you. Happy Anniversary, Hyejin-nah. Love, G.J."

After finishing the card, I pressed the intercom connecting me to my secretary. "Bring me a vase."

Jihyo's recent behavior has left me feeling unsettled. It's not like her to be so attentive and involved in our household affairs. She also sleeps at our house again and takes charge of cooking every meal. As far as I know, she doesn’t know how to cook—it's all so out of the ordinary.

"Why are you like this, Jihyo?" I murmured to myself, frustration creeping into my voice as I tried to make sense of her sudden change in behavior. With a heavy sigh, I couldn't help but wonder what could be behind her actions and what it meant for our relationship.

蝶

"I have prepared different meals for each of you based on last week's blood test results," the chef announced as the food was served. "As for the vice-chairman, I prepared a low-FODMAP diet for your irritable bowel syndrome."

My father nodded in appreciation. "Thank you," he acknowledged before giving the signal for us to begin eating.

I slowly started to eat, observing Jihyo doing the same. "Where's Grandfather?" I inquired.

"He needs to fast for his medical checkup tomorrow," my father explained. I nodded in understanding.

"I bet he'll live up to 120 years of age," Mother remarked, turning her attention to me. "Hyejin-nah."

"Yes?" I responded, prepared for whatever she was about to say.

"You'll receive a certification of contents tomorrow. I'm going to file a suit for how you built your department store over my land in Gwanggyo," she announced matter-of-factly, continuing to eat her meal.