Prologue

Like most of the Korean middle class, Han Rae Jin is a respectable citizen. Her lifestyle was constantly disordered. She was constantly overwhelmed by her hectic schedule and unable to give her full attention to anything. Working like a zombie for the sake of money inevitably leaves her exhausted and messes with other aspects of her life. She didn't date or socialize much because of this. The reason was the same as before: she was too busy. The capacity to focus on other activities while earning money.

The invitation to the party arrived today from an old friend. Countless years have passed since she last got one. Of course, she doesn't mind, though. The answer is no, she would not go. The party wasn't on her agenda, but her friend insisted that she attend. It is midnight and she is returning home from work. Is it safe you ask? Even though this is when car thieves and psychopaths go for their night strolls, a woman can feel safe walking the streets at night here. That was fine with her, too. She carried an Iced Americano in one hand and her phone in the other as she strolled around Seoul. As she was reading about the updates that occurred in their firm's site, someone touched her on the shoulder. She turned around to see a youngster smiling at her from behind a board.

"Excuse me, ma'am." Declared the young man, his eyes shining with excitement.

"Yes?" She sighed and answered the question.

"This an item that you might be interested in buying from us. You won't be sorry for your decisions, I promise!" The young man shouted, pointing at the object on the table behind him. Despite the fact that she was not a bit interested to make any purchases at the moment, she decided to try and squeeze in at least one discussion before the day was through. She spent the entire day glued to her keyboard.

One can well ask, "What is it about?" She asked as she sipped her Iced Americano and glanced at the boy with indifference.

"Work." The young man leaned forward, smiling at the girl. The girl creased her brow in confusion.

"Sorry?" She questioned in wonder.

"Yes, our machine is programmed to monitor how long you've been working and then to reward you with time off. Finding a happy medium between personal life and professional standards." As he wraps up, he smiles. Something about that smells fishy.

"That's...nice. Nonetheless, I can function rather well without a sense of balance." When asked, she glanced down at her feet and replies.

"I don't get that at all.... oh! Sorry! But if you'd rather not buy it, you can always put your money into our company!" With his hands, he stresses his points.

Unfortunately, she has to say, "Not today." She utters and keeps on her way.

"Wait! I encourage you to purchase it. And the issue is... my brother has an illness. Worst possible illness. My income is dependent on me selling this, and if I don't sell it, I won't be paid. Funds for the hospital can't be deposited if I do not get my salary. Without payment, they cannot keep him. Please." A tear rolls down his cheek as he continues to talk.

This is a very strange situation indeed. I wonder what sort of response she'll give. "All right, how much?" After turning her back on him, she enquires. When she turns around, she spots a happy rabbit. Her heat has returned. Finally, warmth after all these years. This smile stood out to her because she is used to seeing only frowns and artificial smiles.

"Really? Really?!" His voice rises in a yell of joy. "I will." She gives him a look of reassurance. "How

exciting! It costs $289 if that's okay with you." When he does, she asks a question. "Excuse me, but dollars?" She couldn't believe what she was hearing.

"It's true that the machine was developed in the United States state of Texas rather than in South Korea. Our American supporters want payment in U.S. dollars, ma'am." As he scratches his head, she says.

"Can you tell me how much that is in Korean won?"

Inquires she. "Uh, I'm not sure about that." What an amazing chance! He remarked. That sounds absurd, to be honest.

''How do you plan to sell it without knowing how much it's worth in Korean won?'' The

question is posed with crossed arms.

''It's fine, just give 5,000 won''. Says he. With an "Okay," she pulls her card from her pocket.

"No, I only accept cash." When he does, she asks a question. "The thing is, I'll have to get some cash out of the Machine tomorrow before I can pay for it. Provide your contact details, will you?" As she replaces the card, he explains.

"But...okay." He offers her his number on paper with a groan and an answer. '' We'll have to arrange another time to get together, have a amazing night." He gives her a knowing grin before waving her off.

"Same to you." She responds while glancing at her watch. We're talking about 1 o'clock in the morning here. So, it's back to ramen for her. Ah! She makes her way silently home, reflecting on her brief encounter with the boy. He was muscular and... attractive? However, she tells herself, this is not the time for crushes. However, what if she has one? No. Keep it down. Put an end to your talk already. She smacks herself mentally for the stupid conversation in her head that just took place. And continues to march forward.

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