The Drive

"Oh! Yes, it does. That's the main business my father runs. Royal Blue was more of a side project he started because my mom was bored after retiring from the entertainment industry. To keep her busy and not lazing around, he started Royal Blue. That's also why there's only one branch of the hotel even after so many years," Hea-Jung shrugged casually, making their mouths drop a little, especially Joon-won, who knew the value of money after working for it again.

"Your parents casually started a world-class restaurant because one of them was lazing around? I don't think I'll ever understand the rich mentality," Jung-hwa shook her head. Hea-Jung laughed but didn't respond. Her family was very wealthy, and she knew that their lifestyle seemed abnormal to others.

They reached the car, and both of them sat in the back seat. Hea-Jung noticed and joked, "Why did you both jump into the backseat so quickly? Am I your driver?" Jung-hwa's timid personality showed as she moved to the front seat.

Joon-won stayed put, gazing out the window. It was his first time sitting in a car, and he found it very comfortable compared to the horse-drawn carriages he was used to. It was the same sleek red car he saw Hea-Jung driving a few days ago.

Hea-Jung started the car and drove out of the campus, donning her sunglasses. She glanced at Joon-won through the mirror and asked, "Little brother, why are you so silent? What do you think about these glasses I bought recently? Do they suit me?"

Joon-won, who had been about to ponder the mysterious system again, looked at her reflection in the mirror and said plainly, "Look at the road, not the mirror."

She laughed and continued, "You should treat this big sister of yours to a meal. You got a big chance today. Don't be so petty."

"I only got an opportunity to audition, not the role itself. Let's talk about celebrating after I actually get a role. Besides, why do you need a party from me? I'm working at a supermarket to earn some small change. I can't throw the kind of party you'd want."

"Don't be like that, little brother. You should celebrate all the small steps, like your first audition. And when did I say I wanted a big party? It's not like I don't know where you work. Just treat me to a small meal, and that'll be fine. Big sister isn't picky, so you're lucky."

"Alright, I'll treat you before the end of summer vacation," he finally relented. Hea-Jung was a spoiled child who wouldn't relent until she got what she wanted.

"Now, give me your number, little brother. I'll save it," she said, pulling out her phone while still driving.

"Don't drive with one hand. See how tense Jung-hwa is with your driving. Give me the phone; I'll save it for you. Keep both hands on the wheel." He reached through the front seats and noticed the quiet Jung-hwa.

Hea-Jung laughed and handed him the phone. Joon-won quickly saved his number and handed it back. She dialed his number and said, "Save mine too."

It didn't take long before they reached the high-class area of the city. As Joon-won looked out, he noticed the high-rises piercing the sky and the fancy cars on the streets. He couldn't even guess their price tags. Jung-hwa, too, had her mouth wide open, marveling at the scene.

As they continued to look outside, Hea-Jung shook her head, having expected this kind of reaction. She let them be.

The scenery was a stark contrast to the area Joon-won lived in, where cars were plain and most people drove two-wheelers. He sighed, reflecting on the societal differences that persisted even in this world.

The car came to a stop, snapping them out of their reverie. They were in front of a fancy building, and Joon-won noticed a few women in hotel uniforms outside.

Hea-Jung looked at both of them and said, "Alright, let's go. Uncle is already inside waiting for us." She got out, and they followed, watching her toss the keys to a valet.

Joon-won caught a glimpse of the interior and saw a huge chandelier in the middle of the reception area, with everyone dressed properly. Compared to them, they looked plain and out of place.

One of the women approached Hea-Jung and respectfully said, "Young miss, Mr. Hwan is waiting for your group in the private dining area your father reserved."

"Alright, let's get going. Little brother, Jung-hwa, stop staring like that. Let's go," she beckoned them and walked inside with the female employee, showing them the way.