: The Most Feasible Plan

While Kim Cho Ah and Dong Yun were occupied flattering each other, Eun Young managed to step a little closer to Min Jae. In a voice that only he can hear, she whispered. "Don't worry, I'll handle them. I don't think they'll stay much longer anyway." Eun Young reassured him. Min Jae didn't reply. However, from Eun Young's words, he was reminded of their conversation earlier. Apparently she was still against the idea he suggested.

When the two old lovebirds finally snapped out of it, their cheeks were both red in embarassment as they began to realize their childish behavior. They had never been a perfect couple. Regardless, everyone else could see that what they shared was genuine.

Cho Ah smacked Dong Yun's arm, pretending to be irritated at him when she was just overwhelmingly abashed. "Aigoo! There are children here for crying out loud!" She exclaimed but her amused husband simply chuckled at her cry.

Soon after, the adults headed to the garden while the kids resumed napping. The weather a bit chilly. Nevertheless, it was also very fine and refreshing outdoors. They continued to chat and converse while enjoying warm cups of tea. With this, a house helper returned with a new pot of Da Hong Pao tea. She carefully refilled their cups before exiting to give the family privacy.

Dong Yun sipped from his own porcelain cup. Afterwards, he turned to face Min Jae to begin another conversation. "By the way, how are your parents, Min Jae? It's been a while since we last heard from them. Are they doing well?" He asked.

Cho Ah nodded as she suddenly recalled something. "We've sent Mrs. Lee a gift for her birthday. Did she receive it?" She added.

Min Jae calmly placed his cup on the glass table before responding. "The last time I spoke to them, I heard they were well. I think they're out on a trip right now somewhere in Europe." He said with a gentle smile. "Also... I apologize on my mother's behalf, Eomeonim [1]. She was very delighted with the gift you sent her though. It just so happened that father took her out for an extravagant celebration that day so I guess she forgot to respond." He admitted.

Kim Cho Ah sighed in relief. All this time she was actually worried for nothing. Everyone knows how Min Jae's mother is very particular when it comes to things. Her high standards can be very hard to meet. Thus, most of the time, she is a very hard person to please.

"Well, that's very good to hear dear." Cho Ah gently replied, instantly feeling lighter than usual.

They continued to chat for quite a while as they jumped from one topic to another. Cho Ah and Dong Yun asked about Min Jae's prosperous business and he politely entertained them with everything they wanted to know. They also asked Eun Young about work and as always, they were very happy to see her passionate about it. Everything was going exceptionally well until they finally reached the topic Eun Young dreaded.

"Eun Young, Min Jae." Kim Cho Ah cautiously began. "I hope you don't take this the wrong way but... your father and I are terribly worried for the kids." She said. "Many children today grow up differently because they aren't often supervised. Other children also begin to feel insignificant upon growing up because they seldom have their parents with them."

Cho Ah looked at Dong Yun as if signaling him to help her. "We are very much willing to help you with this but of course, we'll respect whatever decision it is the both of you will come up to." Dong Yun said.

Cho Ah's face hinted a little bitterness but she instantly kept a calm and gentle composure. She really wanted to spend more time with the children. However, Dong Yun's right. They have to respect Eun Young and Min Jae's decision.

Fortunately, Eun Young was already prepared for this scenario. She had already rehearsed this moment in her head and now, she already knew what she had to say. Things will remain the way they are. She'll hire personal maids for Jung Hyun and Hye Soo if necessary but as far as she can tell, it won't come to that. Eun Young opened her mouth to respond. But before she can even begin to speak, Min Jae was already ahead of her.

"Thank you Eomeonim and Abeonim [2]. It really makes us happy to know that you care for the children as much as we do." Min Jae said. Eun Young could only gape at him as he talks. "Eun Young and I have already considered this matter and indeed, we would be devastated if those things ever happen to our Jung Hyun and Hye Soo." He continued.

Cho Ah and Dong Yun listened carefully to Min Jae as he discussed. Truly he was a good speaker. His diction was on point and his choice of words were very impressive. "We've thought of a possible compromise and for now, I believe the most feasible plan would be for me to work partially at home... at least until Eun Young gets back from work." Min Jae said.

"Oh dear!" Cho Ah gasped in surprise. She knew full well that her son-in-law was a busy man. And for him to sacrifice his time? She was afraid that it might affect his performance at work!

"Mom, Dad!" Eun Young exclaimed. "We haven't finalized anything yet. In the mean time, we're still open to other options." She said, hoping to console her still flabbergasted parents.

Dong Yun and Cho Ah blinked and slowly exhaled. Kim Dong Yun nodded as Cho Ah was still processing Min Jae's words. "Very well." Dong Yun quickly glanced at Eun Young before looking at Min Jae. "I understand. But please... carefully think about it. Okay?"

Eun Young nodded. Not long after, Min Jae followed her lead.