Marry the Billionaire's Daughter

1. Hope

Chaeyoung's footsteps echoed through the quiet streets of her small neighborhood as she trudged home, her tired legs aching with every step. The night was cool, a welcome relief after a grueling shift at her fourth job of the day. The streetlights cast long shadows on the cracked sidewalks, and the occasional car passed by, its headlights briefly illuminating her weary face.

Chaeyoung had always known hardship. She was born into a life of modest means, her parents working tirelessly to keep their small family afloat. When her father passed away years ago, the burden fell squarely on her shoulders. She had taken up odd jobs from a young age- delivering newspapers, working at local diners, and tutoring neighborhood kids-anything to bring in a bit of extra cash. But the real challenge came when her mother fell ill.

Her mother's illness had started as a persistent cough, but it had gradually worsened into something more serious. The doctors' grim prognosis and the mounting medical bills made it clear that Chaeyoung's modest earnings were barely enough to keep them afloat, let alone afford the treatments her mother needed.

As she approached the small, dimly lit apartment she shared with her mother, she glanced at the flyer that had fluttered onto the sidewalk, half-buried beneath a pile of fallen leaves. It had been there for a few days, but tonight, in her exhaustion, it caught her eye.

Curious, Chaeyoung bent down and picked it up. The flyer was vibrant with bold lettering: "Housekeeper Wanted at the Kim Mansion. Generous Salary and Room Provided." She squinted at the details, her heart pounding with cautious optimism. The amount mentioned was significantly more than she could ever hope to earn in a month, let alone in a day.

Taking a deep breath, Chaeyoung slipped the flyer into her bag and quickened her pace toward home. The prospect of a better-paying job was a flicker of hope she desperately needed.

When she finally reached her apartment, she fumbled with the keys and opened the door to the familiar sight of their small, cluttered living room. Her mother was asleep on the couch, wrapped in a thin blanket. The low light from the lamp on the side table cast a soft glow on her face, which was etched with pain even in rest.

Chaeyoung set down her bag and went to the tiny kitchen to grab a glass of water. As she sipped slowly, she couldn't help but think about the flyer. Could this be the break she had been hoping for? She had heard of the Kim family before-they were known for their wealth and influence. The idea of working for them seemed almost too good to be true.

"Chaeyoung, is that you?" Her mother's voice, though faint and tired, pulled her from her thoughts.

"Yeah, Mom, it's me," Chaeyoung replied softly, walking over to her. She sat beside her mother, brushing a strand of hair from her forehead. "You should try to get some more rest."

"I've been trying, dear," her mother said with a weak smile. "How was work tonight?"

"It was long," Chaeyoung said, trying to keep her tone light. "But I picked up something interesting on my way home."

Her mother's eyes flickered with curiosity. "What is it?"

Chaeyoung retrieved the flyer from her bag and handed it to her mother. "It's a job offer at the Kim Mansion. The pay is really good, and they provide room and benefits."

Her mother's eyes widened slightly as she scanned the flyer. "The Kim Mansion? That's quite prestigious."

"I know," Chaeyoung said, her voice tinged with both excitement and apprehension. "I'm thinking of applying. It might be our chance to finally get ahead."

Her mother's gaze softened with concern. "But do you think you'll get it? The competition for jobs like that must be fierce."

Chaeyoung nodded resolutely. "I have to try, Mom. I can't keep working these multiple jobs forever. If I can get this position, it might give us the stability we need."

Her mother reached out and took her hand. "You've always been so strong, Chaeyoung. I'm proud of you no matter what happens. Just remember to take care of yourself too."

Chaeyoung squeezed her mother's hand, feeling a surge of both determination and love. "I will, Mom. I promise."

The next morning, Chaeyoung woke up early and prepared herself for the day. She dressed in her best clothes-simple but clean-and took a deep breath before heading out to the Kim Mansion.

The flyer had included an address, and the opulent description of the mansion on the flyer had only fueled her hope.

As she approached the grand estate, Chaeyoung couldn't help but feel a mix of awe and nervousness. The Kim Mansion was even more impressive up close, with its sprawling gardens and elegant façade. She took a deep breath and rang the bell at the ornate gate.

A moment later, a butler answered the door, his expression polite but reserved. "May I help you?"

"I'm here to apply for the housekeeper position," Chaeyoung said, trying to keep her voice steady. "I saw the flyer and would like to speak to someone about the job."

The butler nodded and gestured for her to follow him inside. "Please, come in. I'll notify the household manager of your arrival."

As Chaeyoung stepped into the mansion, she was greeted by a world of luxury and refinement that she had only ever seen in pictures. The grand entrance hall was adorned with marble floors and a stunning chandelier.

Her heart raced with a mix of anticipation and anxiety. This was her chance-perhaps the only chance-to secure a better future for herself and her mother. All she could do now was present herself as best she could and hope that the Kim family would see her potential.

She waited in the opulent foyer, her thoughts racing as she prepared for the interview that could change her life forever.