Threads of fate

Chapter 27

Now Jiho was on a mission. He took his role of finding the perfect outfit for his father, sister, and himself seriously. They wandered into one of the most exclusive stores, where everything screamed sophistication and elegance.

Jiho’s sharp eyes landed on a striking ensemble displayed at the center of the boutique—a pair of tailored black pants and a crisp white shirt adorned with a delicate pink flower over the heart. It was elegant, subtle, and immediately, Jiho imagined Appa wearing it. There was even a matching version for him, and for Jiwon, the same design crafted into a graceful black skirt.

“Imo! I found it!” Jiho exclaimed, tugging Jiwon’s hand with excitement. “Look! We can all match! Appa, me, and Jiwon too!”

Eunhee, who had been browsing nearby, walked over and smiled. “You have excellent taste, Jiho. It’s perfect.”

Pleased, Jiho approached the salesperson, who lit up the moment she recognized Eunhee. “I’d like to place an order for all three, please,” Jiho said proudly.

“Of course,” the staff member replied, instantly attentive. “We’ll make sure everything is tailored perfectly for you.”

As they prepared the invoice, a well-dressed woman swept into the boutique, her gaze locking immediately on the same display. She marched toward the counter with authority. “I want those outfits. Wrap them up.”

The salesperson looked startled. “I’m very sorry, ma’am. These items have already been selected by another customer—”

“They haven’t paid yet,” the woman cut in sharply. “I’ll pay in full. Make the sale to me.”

Jiho stepped forward calmly, but his voice was firm. “Excuse me. Those are ours. I’ve already placed the order.”

The woman glanced at Jiho, then at Jiwon. “Children shouldn’t be selecting designer clothing like this. Let someone with actual taste take them.”

The atmosphere tensed.

Before the salesperson could speak again, Eunhee stepped forward with serene authority, her voice quiet but laced with unmistakable weight. “I’m afraid you’ve made a mistake.”

The woman scoffed. “Oh? And who are you to decide that?”

Eunhee didn’t flinch. “I’m Eunhee Kim, director of the luxury retail division in this building. And those children you’re insulting?” She gestured toward Jiho and Jiwon. “They are the children of the family who owns this entire mall.”

The woman froze.

Jiho tilted his head playfully. “So technically, you’re trying to steal from us in our own store. That’s not very polite, is it?”

Jiwon chimed in sweetly, “And definitely not very classy.”

The color drained from the woman’s face. She glanced around now, suddenly aware of the silent stares from the staff and a few other shoppers who had overheard. The deference shown to Eunhee was obvious. The salesperson stood straighter, emboldened.

“I suggest you find another boutique,” Eunhee continued smoothly. “This one is currently attending to its owners.”

The woman mumbled something under her breath and stormed out, her heels clicking angrily against the marble floor. Jiho turned back to the staff with a pleased grin. “Let’s go with Appa’s size in medium, please. He doesn’t like it too tight.”

The salesperson smiled in relief and continued preparing the order.

As they walked out of the boutique, Jiho leaned closer to Eunhee and whispered with a little smirk, “That was so cool, Imo.”