Chapter 199: Cheontae Tae-san and Ha Myung-hoon 2

Ha Myung-hoon had never trusted adults.

Not the head of the orphanage nor the gangsters who sent him on errands. Every adult he'd encountered until now had only sought to use him.

To survive, and for the sake of his younger siblings, he had no choice but to comply with them.

Each time, the young Ha Myung-hoon found himself betrayed by those he trusted.

"Ha ha, kid. You've got quite the fierce gaze. I like it."

The man before him, grinning with a sinister look, was no different.

Just another adult, no better than the head of the orphanage or the gangsters. Distrust naturally filled Ha Myung-hoon's eyes.

"Stop glaring and sit down."

With Paeng Seok-dae's swift intervention, he forced the fidgeting Myung-hoon and the stiff-necked Ha Myung-hoon into their seats.

"Paeng, you step outside," Cheon Tae-san instructed.

"It's too dangerous."

"Do you think I'm incapable of handling a bunch of starved kids?"

"…Sorry, Sir."

A displeased look crossed Cheon Tae-san's face.

Paeng Seok-dae quickly bowed his head and exited, closing the door behind him.

"Myung-hoon, right? You live at Hope Orphanage?"

The mention of the orphanage made Ha Myung-hoon bristle.

"…Don't touch the orphanage!"

Despite his strong reaction, Cheon Tae-san maintained a cheerfemeanor.

"Kid, if I intended to cause you harm, would I be feeding you and dressing you like this?"

"…"

In truth, Ha Myung-hoon couldn't fathom the rationale. Adult kindness always came with costs.

The harsh realities of life were lessons he had learned too quickly.

"I like you. That fierce gaze and your determination to take on all the responsibility for those around you."

"…What do you want?"

"I want to make a deal with you."

"A deal?"

Cheon Tae-san found this kid amus

If properly guided, he could become a sharp weapon.

"If you make a deal with me, I will take full responsibility for all the children at your orphanage."

"…"

Ha Myung-hoon's eyes narrowed with suspicion.

Whether he appreciated the challenge or not, Cheon Tae-san's smile grew wider.

"Exactly. Always question anyone who offers you a favor. But don't question me. Heed my warning: if you provoke me, I can end you and anyone near you without a second thought."

Just like that, Cheon Tae-san's expression shifteom jovial to cold and expressionless, showing no trace of emotion.

Ha Myung-hoon's unease grew as he stared at him, the chill in his voice making his throat dry.

He found this man scarier than the gangsters ruling Myeong-dong.

But he wouldn't look away. He knew stepping back would endanger the orphanage.

This was his last desperate struggle.

"Ha, this guy is something else."

Ha Myung-hoon's fierce glare earned a small admiration from Cheon Tae-san.

"My name is Cheon Tae-san. You've probably heof me since I've been around Myeong-dong for a while."

Ha Myung-hoon had indeed heard the name.

The relentless loan shark, the king of Myeong-dong: Cheon Tae-san.

No one in Myeong-dong was unfamiliar with his name.

"I'll be your benefactor. But you must do whatever I ask from now on."

That was a terrifying demand.

Yet, Ha Myung-hoon couldn't say no.

"I'll ensure the girls live as they please, just like other children. If they have wishes, I'll help fulfill them."

Cheon Tae-san's offer was tantali.

To them, it was like receiving a golden lifeline from the heavens.

"…What's your reason for this?"

Though still skeptical, Ha Myung-hoon had started speaking respectfully.

"Just call it a whim. I don't cash out on things that don't profit me. I need someone to be my blade."

He understood the unfortunate fate awaiting the orphaned children.

"Without someone's help, you all will find your choices dwindling. Therefore, it's advantageous for you to deal with me."

Honesty about using their suffering slightly eased Ha Myung-hoon's guard.

Using the word 'deal' instead of sweetened phrases enhanced his trust.

"If you find it hard to decide alone, discuss it with the kids and come back. It's your responsibility to make the decision and bear the consequences."

Ha Myung-hoon glanced back at Ma Seok-dae, recalling the other children at the orphanage.

He could shoulder the responsibility.

Meeting Cheon Tae-san's gaze directly, Hang-hoon declared, "…I'll discuss it with the kids and come back."

"Good. Paeng Seok-dae."

Paeng Seok-dae re-entered the office.

"Take these kids back to the orphanage. If they need anything on the way, buy it and send them along. Also, send a warning to Boss Heo: if he touches them, he'll have to deal with me."

"Yes, Sir."

"You kids can scram now."

Ha Myung-hoon and Ma Seok-dae stood up, heading toward Paeng Seok-dae.

Before stepping outside, Ha Myung-hoon turned back and bowed deeply.

"Thank you for your help today."

Cheon Tae-san waved dismissively f it was nothing.

After sending his orders to his subordinates, Paeng Seok-dae turned to Cheon Tae-san.

Though his expression was puzzled, he didn't speak first.

"Are you curious why I'm interested in that kid?"

"No."

"Ha ha. Your face says otherwise, though. Just wait."

Caught off-guard, Paeng Seok-dae chuckled awkwardly.

"There's no particular reason. I just see my past in that kid. I like his eyes and his determination. Maybe I've softened because of Mi-sook, ha ha."

In Ha Myung-hoon, Cheon Tae-san saw a reflection of own childhood.

He recalled the days when he had come to Seoul aimlessly.

As if lost in thought, Cheon Tae-san closed his eyes, a e gracing his lips.

Days passed since Cheon Tae-san and Ha Myung-hoon hirst met.

"Boss, Ha Myung-hoon has arrived."

As usual, Cheon Tae-san sat in his office rng the newspaper, placing it down.

"Let him in."

With Paeng Seok-dae guiding him, Ha Myung-hoon entered, looking much healthier than just a few days prior.

"Have you made your decision?"

"Yes. I will make a deal."

After returning to the orphanage, Ha Myung-hoon had discussed it with the children.

The debate wasn't lengthy. The answer had been clear from the start.

Hope Orphanage had seen no hope at all.

"Good, I'm glad."

Cheon Tae-san's pleased response him smile.

"Paeng, find a house where all can live comfortably, and once it's ready, move everyone in. Gather their information for schooling… No, first, ensure they have food and clothes."

"Understood."

Only Cheon Tae-san and Ha Myung-hoon rned in the office after Paeng Seok-dae left.

"What's the name of the kid who came with you?"

"Ma Seok-dae."

"Right. He will live here with you. You need to learn from the field before books."

"Yes."

Without hesitation, Ha Myung-hoon nodded.

"From now on, you will obey my every command. I don't spare those who betray me or rebel. Will you still accept my assistance?"

"Yes, Sir."

"Good. I'll put my trust in you."

Cheon Tae-san bought Ha Myung-hood Hope Orphanage's future with money.

From that day forward, Ha Myung-hoon and Ma Seok-dae followed Cheon Tae-san, learning the ropes

"Dad! Who are these guys?"

As they entered Cheon Tae-san's house, a girl ranto him, wrapping her arms around him.

"Ha ha, this is our daughter. How was your day?"

"Yeah, yeah. I had… at school…"

As they entered, the girl held onto Cheon Tae-san's hand, chattering tedly.

Ha Myung-hoon and Ma Seok-dae exchanged glances, unsure what to make of it.

"Dad, Dad. More importantly, who are those guys?"

After talking non-stop, she shyly pointed at them.

"Those are our new brothers who'll be living here with us. Can you get along?"

"Wow! So I'm getting more brothers?"

"Right. Daughter, are you happy?"

"Yes, yes!"

The little girl approached Ha Myung-hoon and Ma Seok-dae.

"Hello, brothers! I'm Cheon Mi-sook, and I'm ten!"

"Yes, Miss. I'm Ha Myung-hoon."

That marked Ha Myung-hoon's first encounter with Cheon Mi-sook. He didn't say much just listened.

At that moment, two men entered the house.

"Father, you're home early."

"Bro!"

Cheon Mi-sook ran to the man witha bright smile.

"Our youngest, don't get hurt."

"Why are you so late?"

"Sorry."

Cheon Mi-sook's worries were met ith an affectionate smile from her father, Cheon Tae-san.

It was a scene just like any family.

Yet, astute Ha Myung-hoon sensed something beneath.

He detected jealousy lurking behind that man's smile directed toward Cheon Mi-sook.

"Su-man, Su-han. These kids are now living with us. Treat them like your siblings."

Cheon Su-man and Cheon Su-han glanced at the new arrivals and nodded.

"Yes, Father."

"Great. Since we're all here, let's eat."

Cheon Tae-san always made time to eat breakfast and lunch with the kids, despite being busy.

As they sat around the table, Ha Myung-hoon and Ma Seok-dae stood like statues behind the children.

Cheon Tae-san beckoned them over.

"Come and sit with us."

"…"

Ha Myung-hoon and Ma Seok-dae silently took their seats.

As Cheon Tae-san picked up his utensils, the children followed suit.

The meal passed in silence.

After finishing, Ha Myung-hoon and Ma Seok-dae were shown to their room.

The room was far better than the one they had at the orphanage.

Ma Seok-dae marveled at the space, letting out a small cheer.

"Hyung, this is amazing!"

Their lives changed after agreeing to the deal.

Although the path ahead seemed thorny, seeing Ma Seok-dae's joyful face made Ha Myung-hoon smile as well.

Just as they were exploring the room, the door swung open.

Entering were Cheon Su-man and Cheon Su-han.

"Hey! You little beggars! What are you doing here?"

"…"

Ha Myung-hoon hesitated to reply to Cheon Su-man's question.

"You brat…! Hey! You don't respond when your owner speaks?"

"I'm sorry."

"Sorry my foot! Who are you?"

"The Boss has taken us in."

Cheon Su-man's eyes were filled with contempt.

"What's with the Boss taking in these little beggars? Ugh…"

As the insults flew, Ma Seok-dae's expression hardened.

Unlike Ha Myung-hoon, who could hide his emotions, Ma Seok-dae was still too young.

Then, Cheon Su-man, scowling deeply, strode up and slapped Ma Seok-dae across the face.

"Don't you dare lower your gaze? You think you can stand there staring at me like that?"

Ma Seok-dae stumbled back, and Ha Myung-hoon's expression twisted.

"Ha! The two of you really are something else."

Cheon Su-man slapped Ha Myung-hoon's cheek as well. Still reeling from the impact, Cheon Su-man poked his forehead.

"Listen here. If you're a servant, act like it. When speaking, drop to your knees like a dog. Don't stand there looking steady, or people will really think we're brothers. It gives me the creeps."

"…"

"You're not going to answer again?"

"Yes…"

Cheon Su-man lowered his hand again but wiped it on Ha Myung-hoon's clothes.

"Just understand your position. I'm a generous guy, so I'll let this slide. I'll treat you like family, but don't ever mistake that for equality. I'm the master, and you're just the dog watching the house. Understand?"

"Yes, I understand."

Ha Myung-hoon bit his lip hard, keeping his head bowed.

Cheon Su-man and Cheon Su-han exited with disdain.

As soon as they left, Ha Myung-hoon examined Ma Seok-dae's swollen face. It was red and puffy.

"Are you alright?"

"…Yeah."

The disgraceful moment stung, but he felt powerless to act.

Given the deal he made with Cheon Tae-san.

Ha Myung-hoon glared at the door the Cheon Su-man brothers exited from.

Cheon Su-man had acted friendly in front of Cheon Tae-san.

But in private, he resorted to frequent beatings and harsh words.

Cheon Mi-sook, on the other hand,had always treated him and Ma Seok-dae like family.

Cheon Tae-san had been the same. ept every promise he made.

He supported the livelihood of all the girls, ensured every child had access to school, and provided resources for talent development.

Yet misfortune always comes unannounced.