Chapter 4:

A young guy strolled through Zurich Airport with an air of ease, his rolling suitcase trailing quietly behind him. His neatly styled hair stayed in place despite his occasional glances around the bustling terminal. His phone buzzed in his pocket just as he reached the check-in counter. Answering with a casual "Yeoboseyo?" (Hello?), his voice carried a warm and familiar tone.

The ground staff glanced at him, confirming details aloud. "Kang Ha-neul?"

He nodded, signaling a polite acknowledgment with a slight bow while balancing the phone against his ear.

"Flight to Venice?" she asked, her voice tinged with a Swiss accent.

Another nod, this time paired with a brief smile. As the staff processed his information, he continued his conversation in Korean.

"어머니, 왜 또 걱정하세요? 다 챙겼어요." (Mother, why are you worrying again? I've packed everything.)

From the other end of the line came the soft, slightly panicked voice of his mother. "그래도, 여권 확인했어? 네 약도 챙겼지?" (Still, did you check your passport? And your medicine?)

Ha-neul sighed, his tone affectionate but exasperated. "여권 가방에 있어요, 약도 챙겼고요. 이제 그만 걱정하세요. 제가 어리게 보여도, 이제 다 컸잖아요." (My passport is in my bag, and I've packed the medicine too. Stop worrying now. I may look young, but I'm grown up.)

His mother's reply came quick. "알겠어, 알겠어. 그래도 네가 혼자 비행하는 게 익숙하지 않으니까 걱정이 돼." (Alright, alright. I'm just not used to you flying alone, so I worry.)

He chuckled softly, earning a few curious glances from nearby passengers. "저 괜찮아요, 엄마. 도착하면 바로 연락할게요." (I'm fine, Mom. I'll call you as soon as I land.)

The ground staff returned his passport and boarding pass, nodding that everything was in order. Ha-neul thanked her politely in English before walking away, still on the phone. "사랑해요, 어머니. 이제 끊어야 할 것 같아요." (I love you, Mom. I think I have to hang up now.)

His mother's voice softened. "사랑해, 아들. 조심히 가." (I love you too, son. Travel safely.)

He ended the call and slid his phone into his coat pocket, letting out a breath of relief. His mother's concerns were endearing but often overwhelming. Heading toward the terminal shops, he spotted a coffee counter and decided to grab a drink to pass the time before his flight to Venice.

***

Ha-neul entered the bustling café, its warm aroma of roasted coffee beans filling the air. The baristas worked quickly behind the counter, taking orders in a mixture of German, English, and French. He ordered a black coffee and settled at a small table near the window.

As he sat, he noticed a woman at the table directly across from him. Scarlet Rogers. She was elegant, with her long black hair tied back neatly. Her sharp features gave her an air of quiet authority, but her focus was on the sketchpad in front of her. She was surrounded by loose papers, her brows furrowed in concentration.

Unaware of how much his voice carried, Ha-neul pulled out his phone again and resumed a loud conversation.

"아빠! 나 스위스에 도착했어요." (Dad! I've arrived in Switzerland.)

Scarlet's shoulders tensed at the unexpected volume, but she kept her eyes on her sketchpad, determined to ignore the interruption.

"응, 잠깐 들렀다가 베니스로 가는 비행기를 탈 거예요." (Yes, I'm just stopping briefly before catching a flight to Venice.)

The sharp scratch of Scarlet's pencil on paper became more deliberate as she tried to drown out his voice.

Ha-neul continued, gesturing animatedly as if his father could see him. "베니스에서 프로젝트가 끝나면 바로 한국으로 돌아갈게요." (I'll come back to Korea as soon as the project in Venice is done.)

Scarlet finally glanced up, her eyes narrowing slightly. His tone wasn't just loud, it was enthusiastic to the point of being disruptive. She bit back a sigh and returned to her work.

Still oblivious, Ha-neul laughed loudly. "아니요, 아빠. 이번에는 절대 기념품 안 잊을게요." (No, Dad, I won't forget souvenirs this time.)

Scarlet tightened her grip on her pencil, muttering under her breath. "Of all the tables in this entire airport..."

The café staff glanced over, but Ha-neul remained blissfully unaware. He sipped his coffee casually, his phone still glued to his ear. Scarlet finally pushed her sketchpad aside, conceding that productivity was impossible under these conditions.

When Ha-neul ended his call, he caught her eyes briefly. She looked away quickly, but the brief exchange was enough to make him realize the effect of his behavior. Lowering his phone to the table, he offered an apologetic smile, though Scarlet didn't return it.

As the café settled into quiet again, Scarlet leaned back in her chair, her annoyance fading. Ha-neul, now subdued, seemed to sense the tension and offered her a small wave.

"I'm sorry if I disturbed you," he said in English, his Korean accent faint but noticeable.

Scarlet blinked, surprised by the apology. "It's fine," she said curtly, pulling her sketchpad back in front of her.

Ha-neul hesitated before returning to his coffee. For a moment, he considered striking up a conversation but decided against it, sensing her preference for solitude. In the end, they sat in silence, two strangers briefly crossing paths in a Zurich café.

***

As Scarlet settled into her flight, she couldn't help but feel a slight sense of relief. The plane hummed steadily in the air, and the soft whisper of the engines helped her relax after the hectic morning. The long flight to Venice was a connecting one, and she had no intention of letting anything or anyone ruin her time away.

Though the occasional thought of Ha-Joon crossed her mind, she pushed it aside, focusing on her own well-being. The seat next to her remained empty, and she leaned back in her seat, closing her eyes for a few moments.

The stewardess came around to offer drinks, and Scarlet declined, deciding to rest her mind. She had been working nonstop for weeks, and this break, though interrupted by the incident with the press, was something she desperately needed.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the plane, Kang Ha-neul was settling in comfortably. He had taken his seat on the other side of the aircraft, far away from Scarlet, not realizing that they were both on the same flight until they had disembarked. Ha-neul had a lot on his mind as well, but his mind was primarily consumed with the business he was about to attend in Venice.

He wasn't the type to waste time or energy on idle thoughts. The successful hotelier was on his way to a significant meeting. His company's global empire had grown over the years, but there were still places to conquer.

As the plane landed in Venice, Scarlet glanced at her phone to double-check her hotel reservation details. The sleek, luxurious establishment she was heading to was one of the most prestigious in Venice, and it had been recommended to her by a few colleagues in the fashion industry. She had no particular plans, but she did want to unwind and enjoy her time, free from the pressures of work.

Scarlet stretched in her seat, relieved that the journey was finally over. The connecting flight had drained her energy, and she was eager to get to her hotel, settle in, and unwind. She collected her carry-on and made her way to the arrivals hall, quickly locating her chauffeur who was holding up a sign with her name.

Scarlet had opted for one of the best hotels in Venice, a grand, luxurious establishment that promised every comfort she needed for her break. Her phone buzzed as she checked her hotel reservation for the address. She confirmed it with the chauffeur and settled into the car, gazing out at the stunning Venetian architecture as the vehicle weaved through the cobblestone streets.

Meanwhile, Kang Ha-neul, who had arrived earlier, was already deep into his day. His Venetian hotel was one of the crown jewels of his global hospitality empire, and he had just wrapped up a critical meeting with his investors. His existing hotel in Venice had been a success story from the start, catering to the elite with its impeccable service, unparalleled views, and exclusive amenities.

***

Scarlet's car finally pulled into the grand driveway of the hotel, and she stepped out, taking in the imposing structure with its ornate façade and timeless charm. The hotel exuded luxury and sophistication, every detail meticulously crafted to create an atmosphere of elegance.

Scarlet hadn't realized that this was one of Kang Ha-neul's properties, nor did she know that he was currently in residence. She checked in at the front desk, the concierge greeting her warmly and offering a brief overview of the hotel's amenities. Scarlet nodded politely, eager to get to her room.

As she was led to her suite, she couldn't help but admire the lavish décor of the hotel, the polished marble floors, the crystal chandeliers, and the intricate woodwork. Her suite was no less impressive, with its plush furnishings, breathtaking views of the Venetian canals, and every luxury she could ask for.

***

Back in the business wing of the hotel, Ha-neul had settled into his private office after the meeting. He leaned back in his chair, glancing out at the cityscape from the large window behind him. His thoughts shifted momentarily to his next move, preparing for the Paris expansion.

His existing properties were thriving, but Paris was a different beast entirely. The competition there was fierce, and he would need to bring his A-game to carve out a space for his brand.

A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts. His assistant stepped in, handing him a summary of the meeting and a few additional documents for his review. "Thank you," Ha-neul said, his tone was professional but warm.

As the assistant left, Ha-neul picked up his phone, scrolling through emails and messages. He couldn't afford to rest just yet; there was always more to be done.

***

After unpacking and taking a quick shower, Scarlet decided to explore the hotel. She made her way to the lounge, where she planned to have a light lunch before venturing out to see the city. The lounge was as elegant as the rest of the hotel, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a stunning view of the canals.

Scarlet found a quiet corner and ordered a coffee and a light meal. She opened her notebook, jotting down a few thoughts and ideas that came to her mind. She might be on a break, but her creative spirit never truly rested.

***

Ha-neul, on the other hand, was heading to another meeting, this time with a group of local artisans and designers. He had plans to incorporate their work into his Venice hotel, further distinguishing it from the competition. The meeting was held in the hotel's exclusive art gallery, a space that showcased pieces from renowned and emerging artists alike.

"Good afternoon, everyone," Ha-neul greeted as he entered the room. The small group of artisans and designers stood to welcome him. "I'm glad to see you all today. As you know, this meeting is to discuss our new venture and the potential it holds for all of us. Venice is an important step for us as a company, but the future is where the real opportunity lies. I want us to focus not just on the now, but also on our long-term goals." he paused for a brief moment.

"I've been following your work closely," he began, his tone sincere. "The craftsmanship and artistry you bring to your pieces are truly exceptional. I believe that by incorporating your designs into our hotel, we can create an experience that is not only luxurious but also deeply rooted in the culture and spirit of Venice."

The artisans exchanged glances, impressed by his approach. Ha-neul wasn't just another businessman looking to make a profit; he was someone who genuinely valued their craft and wanted to celebrate it.

One of the designers spoke up. "Mr. Kang, it's an honor to collaborate with someone who appreciates the art as much as we do. What are your specific ideas for the project?"

Ha-neul smiled, leaning forward slightly as he outlined his vision. "I want every aspect of the hotel to tell a story. From the textiles to the furniture to the artwork on the walls, everything should reflect the essence of Venice. We'll work together to create pieces that are not only beautiful but also meaningful."

The meeting continued with a lively exchange of ideas. By the end of the session, he had secured the collaboration of some of the most talented artisans in the city, further cementing his hotel's reputation as a place of unparalleled luxury and authenticity.

"Venice is indeed unique, but that's exactly what makes it such an appealing place for us to be," he said. "There's an air of exclusivity here, a charm that draws people in. Our hotel here is already one of the best, but we intend to elevate that status even further. There is so much potential here, and with the right investments, we can take full advantage of it."

Kang Ha-neul straightened his blazer and clasped his hands together, signaling the end of the meeting. The artisans and designers exchanged satisfied glances, their excitement palpable. They had never worked with someone who so seamlessly blended business acumen with a genuine appreciation for their craft.

"Very well," Ha-neul said, his voice warm but authoritative. "I'll be here for a week more. If you need any further clarification or have additional ideas, feel free to reach out to my assistant." He paused for a moment, glancing around the room with a small smile. "This project holds great promise, and I'm confident that together, we'll create something truly exceptional."

The group nodded in agreement. Ha-neul nodded politely before stepping out of the art gallery. His leather dress shoes echoed faintly against the marble floors as he made his way to the main suite hall, his mind shifting gears from work to relaxation.

The luxurious elevator whisked him to the top floor of the hotel, where his private suite awaited. The expansive space exuded understated elegance, with its sleek furnishings, warm lighting, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offered a breathtaking view of the Venetian canals. Ha-neul loosened his tie and slipped off his blazer, draping it over the back of a chair.

He stepped out onto the balcony, leaning against the ornate railing as he gazed down at the bustling city below. The shimmering lake reflected the afternoon sunlight, and gondolas glided gracefully across the water, their gondoliers humming soft tunes.

His serious demeanor softened as he stood there, alone and unobserved. A quiet chuckle escaped him as he imagined what his mother would say if she could see him now, indulging in a rare moment of peace. "She'd probably tell me to stop daydreaming and go explore," he muttered to himself, his lips curling into a grin.

Determined to make the most of his free afternoon, Ha-neul decided to venture out into the city. He retreated into his suite and opened his suitcase, rifling through its contents with a surprising lack of organization for someone so meticulous at work. "Where did I put that track suit?" he mumbled, tossing aside neatly folded shirts and trousers.

Finally, he unearthed a simple black tracksuit and changed into it, swapping his dress shoes for a pair of comfortable sneakers. He stood in front of the mirror, running a hand through his hair to tousle it slightly. "Not bad," he said with a playful wink to his reflection.

He grabbed his phone and wallet, slipping them into his jacket pocket before heading out. As he descended in the elevator. Exploring a city like Venice on foot, with no agenda or schedule, was a rare luxury for someone like him.

Ha-neul stepped out onto the cobblestone streets, the cool breeze brushing against his face. The scent of freshly baked pastries and brewing coffee wafted from nearby cafés, mingling with the salty tang of the lagoon. He strolled aimlessly, his eyes taking in the vibrant architecture, the narrow alleyways, and the colorful storefronts.

Every so often, he paused to admire the intricate details of a building or to watch a gondola pass by. A street musician caught his attention, playing a lively tune on a violin. Ha-neul stopped to listen, a genuine smile lighting up his face as he dropped a few euros into the musician's case.

He wandered into a small piazza, where children chased pigeons and couples shared gelato on wrought-iron benches. Ha-neul found himself drawn to a quaint café with outdoor seating. He ordered an espresso and a slice of tiramisu, settling into a corner table where he could people-watch to his heart's content.

As he sipped his coffee, he realized how much he enjoyed these moments of simplicity, away from the weight of his responsibilities. It wasn't often that he allowed himself to let his guard down, but here, in the heart of Venice, he felt a rare sense of freedom.

As Ha-neul savored the rich tiramisu, his phone vibrated loudly on the café table. Startled, he nearly knocked over his espresso. A glance at the screen revealed the familiar contact name: " 엄마" (Mother).

His heart sank. In his rush to settle into Venice and focus on work, he had completely forgotten to inform her about his safe arrival. Clearing his throat and bracing himself for the onslaught, he picked up.

"여보세요, 어머니." (Hello, Mom.)

The voice on the other end was sharp and immediate. "강하늘! 지금 어디야?" (Kang Ha-neul! Where are you?)

He winced at her tone, sitting up straighter in his chair as though she could see him. "베니스에 있어요, 어머니. 무사히 도착했어요." (I'm in Venice, Mom. I arrived safely.)

Her exasperation came through loud and clear. "베니스? 도착했으면 바로 연락해야지! 내가 얼마나 걱정했는지 알아?" (Venice? You should have called me as soon as you arrived! Do you know how worried I've been?)

Ha-neul rubbed the back of his neck, glancing around the piazza sheepishly. "죄송해요, 어머니. 너무 바빠서 깜빡했어요. 지금은 괜찮아요." (I'm sorry, Mom. I got so busy that I forgot. But I'm fine now.)

"바빠도 연락하는 게 그렇게 어려운 일이야?" she scolded. (Even if you're busy, is it so hard to make a quick call?)

He sighed, softening his voice to calm her. "아니요, 어머니. 제가 잘못했어요. 다음부터는 꼭 도착하자마자 연락할게요." (No, Mom. It's my fault. Next time, I'll make sure to call you as soon as I arrive.)

Her voice softened slightly, but the worry lingered. "정말 괜찮은 거 맞지? 밥은 먹었어? 어디 묵고 있어?" (Are you really okay? Have you eaten? Where are you staying?)

He chuckled, her endless stream of questions and familiar comfort. "네, 어머니. 다 괜찮아요. 지금 베니스에 있는 제 호텔에 머물고 있어요. 아주 좋은 곳이에요." (Yes, Mom. Everything's fine. I'm staying at my hotel here in Venice. It's a really nice place.)

"그래도 걱정돼. 네가 혼자 있을 때마다 마음이 불안해." (I still worry. Every time you're alone, I feel uneasy.)

Ha-neul smiled, leaning back in his chair. "어머니, 저 이제 어리지 않아요. 저 혼자서도 잘 할 수 있어요. 걱정하지 마세요." (Mom, I'm not a kid anymore. I can take care of myself. Don't worry.)

She sighed heavily, but there was a hint of pride in her voice. "알겠어. 근데 다음엔 꼭 나한테 먼저 연락해." (Alright. But next time, make sure to call me first.)

"네, 약속할게요." (Yes, I promise.)

There was a pause before she asked, "베니스에는 얼마나 있을 거야?" (How long will you be in Venice?)

"한 주 정도요. 그리고 나서 파리로 이동할 거예요. 새 호텔 프로젝트 때문에요." (About a week. After that, I'll move to Paris for the new hotel project.)

"파리?" she exclaimed. "또 바쁘겠네. 그래도 건강 꼭 챙겨야 한다." (Paris? You'll be busy again. But make sure to take care of your health.)

Ha-neul nodded instinctively, even though she couldn't see him. "네, 어머니. 항상 건강 챙기고 있어요." (Yes, Mom. I'm always taking care of my health.)

"그럼 됐어. 근데 약은 잘 챙기고 있지?" (That's good. But are you taking your medicine?)

He laughed lightly. "어머니, 제가 무슨 애도 아니고. 약 잘 챙기고 있어요." (Mom, I'm not a child. I'm taking my medicine properly.)

"네가 어리게 보여서 그렇지, 나는 아직도 네가 어린 것 같아." (You still look so young that I can't help but think of you as a child.)

"고마워요, 어머니. 그래도 걱정 그만하시고 조금 쉬세요." (Thank you, Mom. But stop worrying and try to rest.)

Her tone softened further. "알겠어. 그래도 조심히 다니고, 꼭 연락해." (Alright. But be careful, and make sure to stay in touch.)

"네, 어머니. 사랑해요." (Yes, Mom. I love you.)

"나도 사랑해, 아들." (I love you too, son.)

As the call ended, Ha-neul leaned back in his chair with a sigh of relief, shaking his head fondly. His mother's worry could be overwhelming, but it was a constant reminder of her love for him. Smiling to himself, he finished his tiramisu and took one last sip of his espresso, feeling a renewed sense of warmth as he looked out at the lively piazza.