Life Becomes Amazing After Marriage

★Chapter 05 : This Lady Will Guide You!★

 

  “Try this on.”

 

  “What do you think about this one?”

 

  “You can wear this over it.”

 

  “That one also seems good.”

 

  “Ba-da-ssi, don’t you think you’re buying too much?”

 

  Kim Ha-neul felt embarrassed as he glanced at the department store employee following behind, his hands full of shopping bags.

 

  They had already had to change staff because of the overflowing bags, but Kang Ba-da firmly shook her head.

 

  “We haven’t even covered half of it yet.”

 

  Initially, Kang Ba-da had told Kim Ha-neul to choose for himself. However, he ended up picking the same black t-shirt and jeans that he was already wearing. That’s when Kang Ba-da stepped in.

 

  Since then, Kang Ba-da has been trying on every visible piece of clothing. She even bought the entire outfit that the mannequin was wearing from a stylish boutique.

 

  “It feels like I’ve bought enough clothes for a lifetime.”

 

  “But the ones we bought today are for this season, right?”

 

  “…”

 

  Kim Ha-neul’s expression showed genuine confusion. Just by looking at her, it was clear that the clothes she had just purchased were worth every penny.

 

  Feeling frustrated by Kang Ba-da’s persistent persuasion, he quickly turned away.

 

  “But seriously, this is a big problem.”

 

  Kang Ba-da fully understood the situation she had gotten herself into. Yet, she couldn’t bring herself to stop.

 

  Kang Ba-da’s eyes scanned Kim Ha-neul. Despite being caught in her gaze, Kim Ha-neul flinched and trembled, but her eyes remained steady.

 

“But they all look perfect together!”

 

  That’s the problem.

 

  Kim Ha-neul effortlessly rocked various styles like casual, street, modern, classic, dandy, and minimalist. I couldn’t help but wonder how far he could take it.

 

‘How can I resist buying them all when they suit my style?’

 

  It felt like the common temptation people often mention, but even when attempting to disregard that feeling, his overall body proportions were truly impressive.

 

  Once he tried them on, it was difficult to take them off. Consequently, she ended up pulling him along to the next store, carrying bags in hand.

 

  ‘…I must look like a crazy shopaholic.’

 

  In reality, he rarely bought clothes in bulk like this when he visited the department store. Usually, he only purchased one or two outfits at most.

 

  Of course, she had her reasons. At first glance, it seemed like Kim Ha-neul didn’t have many clothes to wear.

 

  ‘There must be a bunch of those black shirts in his closet.’

 

  It was hard not to have doubts when he was wearing the same clothes as the last time I saw her. Moreover, he selected similar clothes at the department store.

 

  “It’s just too tempting.”

 

  If I buy enough clothes for each day of the week, he might make an effort to dress up next time. With that thought in mind, I ended up buying everything.

 

  ‘I didn’t have a boyfriend to spend the money I have.’

 

  People around me have already been nagging me for being too thrifty. They say that spending what you earn helps stimulate the economy.

 

  Furthermore, I probably have a boyfriend now. It’s better to wear and use these clothes rather than letting them sit unused in the wardrobe.

 

  ‘But I did manage to buy them quite economically.’

 

  I took Kim Ha-neul’s personality into consideration as much as possible. I chose clothes that could be easily matched and worn for a long time.

 

  Kim Ha-neul insisted, “Please, let me pay for them.”

 

   “It’s necessary expenses. If it was just Ha-neul alone, he could wear anything, but now that you’re my husband, we can’t do that. Otherwise, our group will face criticism.”

 

  “It still appears excessive to me.”

 

  “Not at all. In fact, it’s not enough.”

 

  Ha-neul knew that her excuses were unreasonable, even to herself. However, the coat he was wearing alone cost 1.5 million won.

 

  Despite carefully selecting popular brands that she thought Ha-neul wouldn’t find burdensome, the prices were still quite high according to his standards.

 

  ‘I don’t want to damage his pride for no reason.’

 

  She desired to buy him clothes that would make him look good, but she detested seeing him feeling uneasy about it.

 

  “Then let’s only buy this much. There’s no space left in the closet anyway,” Ha-neul suggested.

 

  “Didn’t you hear what the salesperson said earlier? Since they came out on their holiday just for us, we should make it worth their while,” replied Kang Ba-da.

 

  “Ba-da-ssi” Ha-neul suddenly grabbed Kang Ba-da’s arm. Startled, she looked up, meeting Ha-neul’s gaze.

 

 ‘B-being this close is dangerous.’

 

  The scent of the perfume she had sprayed earlier mixed with Ha-neul’s natural fragrance, emanating his presence in an overwhelming manner.

 

  The sweet yet dangerous fragrance permeated Kang Ba-da’s nostrils, spreading through her veins and coursing throughout her body.

 

  “This is enough. Understand?”

 

  “Oh, yes, I understand. Let me just…”

 

  Kim Ha-neul distanced himself quickly, as if it hadn’t been his intention. Kang Ba-da felt a mix of relief and disappointment, leaving her in a state of deep fluster.

 

  The captivating scent of perfume continued to linger, clouding her thoughts.

 

  ‘He seemed incredibly cool just now, didn’t he?’

 

  “This should be enough.”

 

  His resolute demeanor had once again taken on a different aspect. Was this the unexpected charm people spoke of? Could it be the “day and night” transformation she had only heard about?

 

  ‘…Is this even possible?’

 

  They say that if men come too easily, they quickly lose interest. In novels, at this point, there would typically be some teasing, right? Kang Ba-da’s thoughts grew increasingly intricate.

 

* * *

 

  After a series of ups and downs, the shopping finally concluded. Upon returning home, I let out a deep sigh of relief. The tension in my body dissipated, and I almost hesitated before taking a seat.

 

  “Just how much did I buy?”

 

  It didn’t even fit in the trunk, so I had to separate the clothes I would immediately wear and arrange for the rest to be delivered.

 

  I’m not stupid.

 

  Although Kang Ba-da had selected the items as if choosing groceries at a market, I am well aware of the value of these clothes.

 

  “Just the ones I’m wearing now…”

 

  They would cost more than all the clothes I’ve worn in my entire life combined. If I were to sell them in the secondhand market, I wouldn’t have to worry about living expenses for a while.

 

  If only I didn’t know that the employees’ bonuses were funded by our spending, I would have at least reduced the number of shopping bags by half.

 

  “It might be mutually beneficial to spend extravagantly.”

 

  People like Kang Ba-da should spend money. Perhaps the amount we spent today will miraculously appear in my bank account by the time I wake up.

 

  Being a person myself, I must admit that it feels good to wear luxury items that I never even imagined wearing in my lifetime. However, there are limits to it.

 

  “Phew.”

 

  I let out a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart. After neatly folding the clothes and organizing them, I decided to take a shower to relax.

 

  Shhh…

 

  As the water cascaded down, I gathered my thoughts, reflecting on the events of yesterday and today, contemplating the path ahead.

 

  “First, there’s Ba-da-ssi…”

 

  She was attractive.

 

  I thought so even when I saw her in front of the subway station. The sweet fragrance that tantalized my nose and the soft touch of her crossed arms…

 

  “No, that’s not it!”

 

  Whoosh!

 

  I quickly shook my head, dispelling those thoughts. I could have had a very embarrassing physical reaction.

 

  “…It’s dangerous.”

 

  As a man in his late twenties with normal thoughts and reactions, I’ve witnessed many people being led astray by their instincts. In a world where even non-existent evidence can be fabricated, I can’t afford to make impulsive mistakes. I have too much responsibility weighing on my shoulders.

 

  “They’ve already moved the hospital room, right?”

 

  She’s truly impressive in executing plans.

 

  I can still hear my parents’ voices anxiously searching for me.

 

  -Oh my, Ha-neul. What on earth is going on? Suddenly, a person in a suit came looking for you, and they moved your father’s room to a strange place!”

 

  “Is that so?”

 

  -Yes! I heard you won some prizes by writing our story, but in this world, you have to be cautious about whom to trust. Are you involved in something dangerous?”

 

  During that time, I was shopping with Kang Ba-da. When I discreetly turned my head, she had a mischievous smile, as if implying, “I already have control over your family.”

 

  Even though it was incredibly frightening, I couldn’t openly display my fear.

 

  – It’s not like that, so don’t worry. Just relax. They said they would support the hospital expenses until your father is discharged.

 

  – Really?

 

  – Yes.

 

  – Oh, thank goodness. You’re a good son. A good son! If there was something like this, you should have told us earlier.

 

  Finally, my mother’s voice reflected relief. I was still not completely at ease, but if I showed my anxiety, my parents would become even more worried. I had to push myself to speak with a louder tone.

 

  *Tap, tap.*

 

  At that moment, Kang Ba-da, who had been listening in on the call, suddenly touched my hand. When I glanced at her, she silently mouthed the words.

 

  ‘Sur. Pri. Se.’

 

  …I almost screamed.

 

  I barely managed to swallow my reaction and somehow ended the call, with the memory passing through my mind.

 

  Shhh…

 

  The water stream soaked my body. I had the impulse to wet my head as well, but I couldn’t bring myself to do it, fearing it would ruin my perm.

 

  “······.”

 

  How much time had gone by? I gradually snapped out of my contemplation. I now had a clear understanding of the situation I was in.

 

  ‘Yes, I’ve already stepped into the abyss.’

 

  Just like the old game “Princess Maker,” I found myself as the main character in Kang Ba-da’s game.

 

  However, the fact that it unfolds on a much larger scale in reality is truly horrifying. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that I have chosen this path.

 

  The only escape from this game is through death.

 

  But if I endure, everyone will find happiness.

 

  “Kim Ha-neul, you’re screwed this time.”

 

  During the time I went to the orphanage with Dal-dongne to gather information for a web novel, I ventured out with high hopes but returned empty-handed.

 

  It was then that I realized I couldn’t simply treat their hard lives as mere entertainment.

 

  In this world, there are countless people who never come across the so-called “opportunity” in their lifetime. The anxiety I feel about this situation is akin to a child throwing a tantrum about side dishes.

 

  “Well, as long as my family is happy, it’s enough.”

 

  That’s enough for me.

 

  What more reason do I need?

 

  Thud-

 

  I turned off the shower and stepped out. After changing my clothes, I promptly sat in front of my desk and switched on the computer.

 

  “Hmm?”

 

  As soon as I habitually entered the web novel serialization site, I was slightly taken aback. The reason being the stack of numerous notifications.

 

  Of course, there were only about 20 or so, but even receiving 2-3 notifications per day can instill fear in the life of an unknown writer.

 

 ‘Did mangsaeng has to do something with this?’

 

  Aspiring writers often refer to themselves as “Mangsaeng,” a term with ambiguous meaning. Many of them have experienced failures in monetizing their works and end up becoming bitter.

 

  The embittered Mangsaengs relieve their stress by leaving malicious comments on other writers’ works. Having experienced such comments a few times before, my heart was already pounding.

 

  “Phew. I should still check.”

 

  No matter how resilient a writer’s mindset is, it’s rare not to be affected by malicious comments. Sometimes, it hurts more when they insult your child rather than yourself.

 

  That’s why many writers choose not to read comments at all, but I had a tendency to view them as feedback and accept them humbly.

 

  After taking a deep breath, I gathered my determination and checked the notifications. As I read the comments, I froze for a moment.

 

  “Good luck.”

 

  “Keep writing.”

 

  “Why isn’t there a next chapter???”

 

  What’s with this enthusiastic response?

 

  All the comments were positive. Even ‘Pungshin Warrior,’ one of the guardians of the web novel site, left a comment and departed.

 

“…And to top it off, there’s even a donation?”

 

[Title: Princess has sent a donation~]

 

: Princess has sent a warm-hearted donation to the author. If you keep writing with strength, Princess is likely to enjoy it.

 

  Of course, it wasn’t the first time I received donations. However, usual donations range from 500 to 1,000 won at most. But this person sent a whopping ‘10,000 won.’

 

  “Is this the happiness I’ve only heard about?”

 

  Even if I can’t immediately use it, and even if it would disappear with a single meal once used, it can’t be simply expressed with money.

 

  The feeling of my work being recognized by others is truly exhilarating.

 

  “I should start writing right away… Hmm.”

 

  As I was about to eagerly start typing, my gaze inadvertently fell on my phone. Naturally, Kang Ba-da came to mind, and her words echoed in my head.

 

  – Take good care of your health.

 

  – Make sure you come out in full condition tomorrow. I’ll let you drive then.

 

  Could it be because I spent too long in the shower?

 

  When I glanced at the clock, it was already past 10 p.m.

 

  Contemplating while looking at the monitor, I eventually shut down the computer and grabbed my phone. I tapped on the chat room that was floating at the top.

 

: Ba-da-ssi, did you sleep well?

 

  I cautiously sent a message, but the number ‘1’ indicating that the message had been read didn’t disappear.

 

  ‘Are you sleeping?’

 

  After wandering around for a bit, it’s understandable if you’re tired. Whatever the reason, it’s appropriate to show gratitude since you put in so much effort for me.

 

  : Thank you for today.

 

  : I’ll wear the clothes you gave me diligently.

 

  Hmm…

 

  After sending it, it feels a bit too formal. After some consideration, I made a bold decision.

 

  : [Thumbs-up emoji]

 

  With the inclusion of the image, it definitely became less rigid. I purchased the discounted emoji as a cost-effective item, and it was worth twice the value.

 

  ‘This should be enough.’

 

  I smiled with satisfaction and lay down on the bed. Normally, I wouldn’t be able to sleep no matter what, but today, for some reason, it felt like I could drift off.

 

* * *

 

  “Hehehe… Well, if that’s what you say.”

 

  Kang Ba-da’s smiling lips took over as she checked all of Kim Ha-neul’s messages in her notifications.

 

  ‘If I check them right away, it might seem like I’ve been waiting, right?’

 

  That’s why she shouldn’t do it.

 

  After all, in love, there should be some give and take.

 

  Kang Ba-da, who decided to honestly acknowledge her feelings for Kim Ha-neul, completely changed her approach.

 

-Ba-da, as a member of the Daehan Group, you should never relinquish your position of control, even if you develop feelings for someone in the future.

 

  A piece of advice from an unnie she had heard before briefly crossed Kang Ba-da’s mind. She considered it a reasonable statement.

 

  In matters of love, it’s often the person who loves more that ends up losing. However, if you cling on too tightly, the other person will quickly grow tired.

 

  ‘That’s absolutely not possible.’

 

  Love is merely a result of hormonal effects. Biologically speaking, the concept of eternal love cannot exist in this world.

 

  However, precisely because of this, there are aspects that can be controlled. Understanding the principles of love can lead to a happy and fulfilling married life.

 

  ‘This lady will guide you!’

 

  Nevertheless, even though it may be her first love, it will most likely be her last. She wanted to confess to Kim Ha-neul at least once.

 

  Due to this, she desperately suppressed her urge to reply quickly and activated the “airplane mode.” This way, even if she entered the chat room, the ‘1’ would not disappear from the other person’s screen.

 

  “…What does this mean?”

 

  The content of the message was fine.

 

  The issue lay in the emoticon she sent much later. It depicted a man raising his thumb while crossing his neck, resembling a gesture that could be interpreted as a threat.

 

  ‘Did I… get caught!?’

 

  Is Kim Ha-neul drawing a boundary after realizing her feelings? Could it be that he noticed she was playing hard to get? Or perhaps he discovered she was the ‘princess’?

 

  ‘Could it be because the donation amount was too small!?’

 

  Too many unsettling thoughts plagued her.

 

  With her mind becoming increasingly complex, she eventually couldn’t hold back any longer and disabled the airplane mode. Kang Ba-da’s hand tapping on the phone grew anxious.

 

  : Ha-neul-ssi?

 

  : What does this mean?

 

  : Excuse me?

 

  However, no matter how long she waited, the ‘1’ did not disappear. It couldn’t be that he was sleeping at this hour, even with insomnia. Why was there no reply?

 

  Tap, tap, tap!

 

  Anxious and unable to sleep, Kang Ba-da spent the night restlessly, biting her nails.