The Last Imoogi

Her Scent

Sandara couldn't help but worry as Kwon Jiyong carried her into his residence but she found herself enveloped in an indescribable comfort and safety once they were inside. His place was wide and spacious. She didn't know what the other rooms were but walking past to the left side of the receiving hall was his bedroom and she couldn't help but admire its interiors.

The design seemed like she was taken back during the Three Kingdoms period, wherein Baekje, Goguryeo, and Silla coexisted. But she was sure this was more like the designs in Silla since she has a bit knowledge about it. Silla's capital back then was Gyeongju, her hometown and even until now, there were several structural ruins which were preserved by the government.

The decorations and antique desks as well as the lamps were different from Joseon's. Even his bed, which was a wide four-posted one draped with sheer canopy was something uncommon to Joseon household. Even the King sleeps on the mattress on the floor.

How could this man have this luxurious bed?

And now, ever so gently, she found herself being lowered down on the edge of the luxury she was so raving about. She nervously looked up at him before scooting further away until she was leaning on the bedpost.

"Do you know that thief?" Kwon Jiyong stood up and clasped his hands behind him as he walked away.

Sandara wondered why his voice sounded accusing. She averted her gaze and mumbled. "No." Well, she really didn't know the boy personally! She just saw him once before!

"Have you met him before?"

"Y-y-es." She glared at him only to meet his scrutinizing gaze. "I went out the other day. I met the boy in the market." She paused when she realized she sounded guilty for going out while he was away. "I just pity him. After all, he's just a little boy. Besides, I'm sure he was innocent. Look, he gave me back my missing purse! What damage would it cost you if you would let him go? That boy didn't even steal anything valuable but only took some pastries and rice cakes! He must be so hungry!" Everytime Sandara remember's that pitiful look on the boy's innocent eyes, she wanted to cry. "You and your men were cruel!"

Kwon Jiyong only glared at her, the frightening look on his eyes still there. "Whoever steps into this household without my permission is considered a criminal!" Sandara instantly cowered when he shouted at her.

"Stay here!" He angrily snarled before closing the door behind him with a loud bang. Sandara wanted to run after him but she knew the man was really mad that he was not paying attention to her words.

Not too long, Jo Sanggung arrived with a fresh set of clothes for her to change into. Surprisingly, despite the dark mood looming over the entire estate, Jo Sanggung could still smile.

"Manim, please bear with Daegam's attitude, will you?" The old lady said. "Daegam was a man who doesn't have any experience at all on treating a lady. His ways have always been harsh but he is not an unreasonable person."

"He is unreasonable," she huffed. Suddenly, her disappointment came back whirling in her chest remembering how much she prepared for tonight's dinner. And now he even shouted at her.

"Manim... Would you believe this old lady if I tell you that Daegam never fussed about the estate like this before? That arrogant boy never lost his cool whatever the situation is and handled everything with ease and control. He hates losing control. But lately... as this one can see, he was losing it to you. Daegam has been worrying and caring about you, Manim."