Rage

Ch-13Mentor

The day unfolded in the usual fashion, marked by the dawn of a new beginning within the embrace of a supportive family—a stark departure from the rift caused by her father's departure due to a regrettable misunderstanding, resulting in her brother becoming an unwitting adversary. Reflecting on the past, a warm sensation enveloped her, driven by fond memories of Kim shielding her with his reassuring remarks, akin to a protective fortress.

As the memories unfolded, a delightful tingling feeling spread through her, manifesting in giggles. The unexpected joy was a testament to the profound connection she shared with Kim. In this intricate tapestry of emotions, a revelation struck her—she, who had never envisioned herself falling in love, now found herself in the midst of it.

This newfound love was unique, as she playfully embraced the role of a fangirl within her relationship. Much like an ardent admirer passionately follows the exploits of an idol, she revelled in fangirling moments with her husband. The transformation from a life marked by familial discord to one filled with love and laughter became a poignant chapter in her journey as the day unfolded with promises of a brighter, joy-filled future.

A gentle curve adorned her lips as she gracefully emerged from the comfort of the bed, her eyes immediately drawn to the empty expanse beside her. The void hinted at Kim's early departure, a silent narrative of his industrious morning routine. Piqued by this intriguing revelation, she couldn't help but feel a subtle excitement, envisioning the prospect of a day where responsibilities might be shared, creating a harmonious blend of their lives.

Embarking on her typical morning routine, she hastened downstairs to find Kim waiting, a mischievous chuckle playing on his lips, evidently anticipating her arrival. Laiba, with a sly grin, approached her, uttering, "Fang, madame, Kim Master awaits you. Best of luck!" With a playful nudge, she propelled her forward, leaving Fang to fall into the waiting hands of Kim's playful schemes.

"What on earth are you up to? Everyone's staring at us," Fang remarked, glancing around at the amused onlookers. "Who cares? Let them watch. We'll continue our delightful staring game until nightfall," Kim declared with a mischievous glint in his eyes. Fang, in response, delivered an elbow punch, playfully recreating a moment from their wedding night. Kim winced, exclaiming an "Ouch," and Fang swiftly escaped from his grasp, leaving everyone in laughter at their endearing and silly antics.

Seated at their designated places around the dining table, the hall was was filled with the enticing aroma of freshly served hot food. Kim, animatedly engaged in conversation, embarked on a lively discourse about Fang's various quirks, regaling the audience with anecdotes that ranged from the innocence of a small child's grievances to the more refined complaints fitting for a big madame. The ambience shifted as anticipation heightened, and King, the patriarch himself, made a dignified entrance. His presence was announced not only by his regal demeanour but also by a discreet cough that effortlessly commanded the attention of everyone present.

Despite the façade of normalcy maintained by everyone at the table, a mischievous idea sparked in her mind. Casually, she inched her right leg towardss Kim's legs under the table, all while maintaining the illusion of enjoying her toast. On the surface, she appeared entirely engrossed in her meal, feigning ignorance of any playful antics. However, the subtle contact didn't go unnoticed by Kim, who experienced a tingling sensation and struggled to maintain a composed demeanour as the tension began to dissipate.

To the onlookers, it seemed as though Kim was unwell, unaware of the clandestine war of playfulness transpiring beneath the table between him and Fang. The air of innocence surrounding their meal belied the covert exchanges transpiring beneath, adding a layer of amusement and intrigue to the seemingly ordinary dining scene.

The playful exchange became increasingly unbearable for him. Hastening to the bathroom, he excused himself from the table, casting an intense glare at her. As he made his exit, she couldn't help but laugh to herself, revelling in the success of her mischievous antics.

"What happened? He seemed fine before the meal," inquired the big madame. Fang replied, "He indulged a bit too much at yesterday's party, leading to a bout of diarrhoea." Concerned, the big madame expressed gratitude for the information, assuring everyone at the dining table. Unbeknownst to others, Laiba, privy to the truth, playfully teased Fang about the incident under the table, prompting shared laughter between them.

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Taking a rare break from her usual responsibilities as Kim's assistant, Fang seized the opportunity to enjoy a day off. It had been an extended period, with the passing months blurring into an indistinct time since she last visited Mini and her mom. The trauma of the abduction had left Fang hesitant to reach out to her best friend during those challenging times, despite an enduring desire to make that connection. The weight of the unspoken months lingered as Fang finally embarked on a visit, a mixture of longing and trepidation accompanying her as she reunited with Mini and her mom after what felt like an eternity.

Coincidentally, Mini had also decided to take a day off from college and was at home with her mother when Fang came to visit. The moment of surprise and joy was mutual as they expressed their deep longing for each other. Mini's mother, delighted by the reunion, shared in their happiness, grateful for the long-overdue meeting. The day unfolded into a memorable adventure as they hopped on a scooter, with Mini taking the reins this time—having learned to drive during Fang's unexplained absence, adding a new dimension to their shared experiences.

The mother of Mini, a maestro in the kitchen, conjured up a delectable spread of freshly baked brownies, cookies, and cake to amplify the joy of the unexpected visit from the two lively souls who had just concluded their scooter escapade. In the warm glow of the kitchen, laughter bubbled forth, and a shared camaraderie unfolded as they indulged in the treats, their connection weaving seamlessly into the joyous symphony of shared anecdotes and newfound gossip, much like the cherished bond between two inseparable friends.

"So, you were kidnapped to be married to a prince...hmmm," Mini teased with a playful lilt in her voice, causing Fang to blush. Fang quickly clarified, "It's not like that." Mini, ever curious, pressed further, "Then what is it?" Fang recounted the incident, explaining, "I was accused of the accident; do you remember when you came to rescue me?" "Yes, I remember," Mini recalled, "when you collided my scooter with Prince Kim's SUV in heavy rain." Fang continued, "That's how the matter escalated into a marriage proposal and me becoming a home nurse for Kim because I felt like it was my only option at the time." She clarified, dispelling any lingering suspicion in Mini and her mother's eyes.

"But I don't think you didn't have other options; maybe you enjoyed being the princess and the wife of Prince Kim," Mini teased, pushing the boundaries of their playful banter. Before Fang could retaliate, Mini, ever the agile friend, swiftly got up, evading any potential retaliation, and laughed mischievously at her own teasing antics.

After the lighthearted exchange of teases, the mood shifted, and Fang found herself mustering the courage to ask, "Why didn't you search for me? Am I that worthless?" The sadness in Fang's pout was palpable.

Mini, her expression turning serious, responded, "I did search for you. I went to the police station, but they told me to give up since you were the only immigrant with me at the time. Then, when I saw the news on TV that you got married to Prince Kim and you were smiling, I thought you had found your soulmate. I gave up, thinking it wasn't my place to interfere in your business." Mini concluded with a tinge of sadness, and Fang, overwhelmed with emotion, pulled her into a warm and soothing hug.

"I didn't mean to abandon you," Fang confessed, her voice filled with remorse.

"I know. I understand your situation now," Mini reassured her, urging Fang not to harbour any guilt. It was a misunderstanding, a series of accidents, and perhaps, Mini mused, a perfect loop that ended with a serendipitous twist of fate.

"So, spill the tea. How's your relationship with Prince Kim?" Mini probed, playfully crouching her elbow, eager for the details. Fang hesitated momentarily before responding, "I think it's good."

Mini, not one to settle for vague responses, leaned in and urged, "What do you think? Tell me everything about it from the beginning," her eyes glinting with curiosity as she patiently awaited Fang's story.

"I embark on the tale, starting with 'Fang'," she began, narrating a story that commenced with an intense disdain for Prince Kim. As the narrative unfolded, it painted a portrait of an unexpected emotional connection that blossomed amid shared struggles. A turbulent journey followed, marked by insults from royals and unfounded accusations,, leading to a stint in jail. The plot thickened with confrontations involving Kim's ex-fiancée and the former financial officer, unveiling the unintended consequences of her assistance in turning her life into a living hell.

Through the storm of humiliations, Kim emerged as an unforeseen shield, propelling me into the intricate dance of love. However, their happiness was abruptly disrupted by official interventions, which mandated their separation into different chambers, fueled by yet another false accusation orchestrated by Rebecca. Denying the claim of labelling her a low peasant, Fang found solace in the support of a few, particularly Laiba, a compassionate maid.

As the narrative reached a climax, the discovery of a living brother added a new layer of complexity, threatening to disrupt Fang's current relationship. Yet, Kim emerged as a steadfast advocate during a crucial conversation, navigating the twists and turns of the tumultuous plot.

In the present chapter, with everything seemingly stable, a cloud of confusion hangs over Fang—uncertainty shrouds her understanding of what Kim truly thinks about her. The story continues, a tapestry woven with love, trials, and lingering questions.

"What are your thoughts on all of this?" Fang inquired after sharing the intricate story of her life with Mini. "This is just...wow," Mini responded in a dreamy voice, prompting Fang to playfully poke her elbow and retort, "Oh, not at all."

Concern etched across Mini's face as she asked, "Do you need advice from me?" Fang, feeling a profound sense of confusion about her relationship with Kim after divulging her deepest secrets, admitted, "Yes, somewhat like that." The uncertainty lingered, leaving Fang unsure about Kim's true feelings and whether he harboured thoughts of pursuing a divorce.

"Maybe you both should talk regarding this matter, as you are confused about it yourself," Mini suggested, adopting a serious expression. "That is the main problem. Whenever I wanted to talk, he seemed busy, or I didn't know if he was pretending to be," Fang admitted with an annoyed expression.

"If that's the case, then plan something new and enticing, like a surprise proposal or a gift tailor-made to Prince Kim's preferences," Mini advised. Fang, however, expressed her fear, saying, "I'm scared. What if Kim or some other royal finds out about this thing? Then it will be of no use," seemingly resigned to giving up hope.

"Why are you giving up so easily, Eonnie? You should have a spy friend who can help you with that," Mini suggested, pointing at herself. "Thank you, Mini. If you're with me, then I'm not scared of getting caught," Fang acknowledged. "Okay, we should exchange phone numbers now," Fang suggested, "since we didn't do that at the time when I didn't have a phone." Mini agreed, "Oh yes, we should. This way, you can inform us when we can shop and coordinate a fixed date and day."

"You are my mentor, Mini," Fang expressed, embracing her in a soothing hug. As the day came to an end, bidding Mini goodbye lifted Fang's mood, and she returned to the palace without drawing any attention. Upon entering the master bedroom, she found it empty. Opting for a refreshing bath, she changed into a night suit and promptly drifted into sleep.

Little did Fang know, Kim had been silently observing her from the lounge, hidden behind the curtain, his gaze filled with playful admiration. Without uttering a word, he watched as she went through her routine. Eventually, he finished his own work and made his way to the bed, settling beside Fang. Admiring her, he drew close, placed a gentle peck, and smiled to himself as he eased into a peaceful sleep.

As the night unfolded, Fang found herself trapped in a relentless and terrifying nightmare, sweating profusely in her restless sleep. In the haunting scenario, she was in constant, fearful pursuit, chased by ominous figures, including her father and the officer who had inflicted misery upon her life. Her torment was palpable.

The commotion woke Kim, who immediately checked on Fang. He gently guided her to sit up, tenderly adjusting the pillow,, and handed her a glass of water. As he comforted her, his worry surfaced. While he, too, occasionally battled nightmares, Fang's frequency of distressing dreams concerned him deeply. In that vulnerable moment, Kim's care became a soothing balm, offering solace to Fang and dispelling the lingering shadows of her night terrors.

"Fang, you should consider consulting a therapist," Kim suggested with a concerned expression, creating soothing circles on her back. As she grappled for air, another panic attack ensued, heightening Kim's worry. Urgently, he dialled his royal doctor, seeking guidance on how to alleviate Fang's distress. Following the doctor's instructions, he gently guided her to lie on the bed, urging a maid to rub her hands and legs for comfort.

Simultaneously, he instructed the head chef to prepare hot porridge, recognising the need to raise Fang's body temperature. In this whirlwind of care and attention, he navigated the situation with diligence, determined to provide the support Fang needed during this challenging moment.

The tumultuous situation eventually subsided, and Kim, with genuine gratitude, expressed his thanks to all the maids who had assisted him while following the doctor's instructions. At 4 a.m., the doctor arrived, providing Fang with medication and administering anaesthesia to facilitate her sleep. The doctor, noting Fang's declining health, advised Kim to seek immediate consultation for her well-being, amplifying Kim's already heightened concern for Fang's welfare.

As Kim observed the relief washing over Fang's face, he, too, succumbed to a deep slumber. Unbeknownst to them, something in the shadows was slowly approaching—a subtle presence that lingered in the periphery of their peaceful rest.

"A mentor can be anyone—your coach, best friend, fiance, mother, father, sister, brother, husband, or even your idol—someone you admire. Situations may arise in various forms: stress, depression, or even death, so it's essential never to take anything for granted, not even your health."