The Broken

Chapter 4 BILLIONAIRE

Weekends—I declared to be my worst days for the last three months—were typically spent in sleeping, eating, and drinking… more of drinking.

Though today was a bit different, for I easily got frustrated even for little things like spilling a tiny drop of wine on my pajama, late delivery of pizza even though it was just two or three minutes, and even the orderly arrangement of my books on the built-in shelves just below my television.

Hating to see anything organized, I randomly grabbed any book and let them fall on the floor one by one while the remaining laid down haphazardly on the shelves.

“Now that’s better,” I said in a deadpan voice. I continued eating the cold pizza while drinking the red wine in the living room. After Howard and I… broke up, I avoided having any meal at that dining table to prevent reminiscing many memories that once were so pleasantly good but unbearably painful now.

Speaking of Howard, he was the root cause of my frustration. The moment I woke up this morning, I was hoping he would come by my apartment or at least give me a call. My head snapped up quickly for every sound I would hear, hoping it was a ring from my phone or a knock on the door. But, nothing happened except for the delivery of pizza.

After what occurred last night, I was hoping…no, it was a vain hope. But, he said he missed me, so he could at least find a way to see me or even hear my voice. Now, I sounded desperate.

Wanting to end my agony, I decided to call him but realized I already deleted his number. Without a second thought, I threw away my cell phone forcefully that its impact sounded a loud thud when it fell on the floor, and a long c***k of line appeared on its screen.

I sighed and leaned on the sofa. Once again, that crashing pain overwhelmed me and… NO. I quickly sat up straight and set aside the pizza. My body was craving one thing—liquor.

Intoxicating myself… numbing my entire body… drowning myself in a state of oblivion. I felt better… way better.

Morning came as usual, and my alarm clock announcing it in a blare meant only one thing—weekend was finally over. Even though my body felt heavy, I got up enthusiastically at the thought of teaching this time.

Nonetheless, the next couple of days were spent in the same vicious cycle--teaching in the morning and drinking at night. Though, there were a few times I would sneak into the comfort room and take a swig during my free time. But then, one incident interrupted not only my usual schedule but the university’s ordinary schooldays.

I was walking in the corridor of the 3rd floor when I noticed a crowd gathering on the ground where the statue of the founder of the school was built. Curious, I leaned over the balcony to get a closer look and was surprised when I realized what was it all about.

A group of reporters was taking photos or videos of President Shin and Mr. Kim shaking each other hands. Completely ignoring our President, I directed all my attention to Mr. Kim. His cream suits paired with navy blue ties plus his flashy grin and constant joking when talking to President Shin or to the reporters flaunted off his friendly and cheerful demeanor. I’m not buying it, though. My instinct was telling me there’s something dangerous behind that friendly façade.

Suddenly, Mr. Kim raised his head as though searching for someone. Then, his gaze stopped in my direction. I wasn’t sure if he recognized me, but he raised his hand and waved. Confused, I looked sideways and noticed a group of students, who seemed amused by his action, waved back also.

Already disinterested, I made my way to my next class. Getting the attention of my students, I asked them as to how an 18-year-old girl thought of creating a terrifying monster.

Yes, we're still in that novel Frankenstein, and my question referred to Mary Shelley, the author. What people popularly believed that Frankenstein was the monster itself was actually erroneous. Victor Frankenstein was the doctor who created the monster by collecting and assembling dead body parts from different corpses and utilized an ambiguous scientific method that he discovered, though it was alluded that he used electricity to power life to it. For a girl who lived in the 18th century and formulated such grotesque yet unique images in her mind was both disturbing and brilliant.

Some students gave their views and even raised other related issues to which others answered and expounded. When they reached unrelated topics, I cut them off and led them back to the main issue. Our discussion, then, was focused on the husband of Mary, Percy Shelley. Knowing him was critical in understanding the work of Mary.

Raised in a privileged and wealthy family, Percy studied at prestigious universities such as Eton and Oxford. So, born wealthy and gifted with exceptional good looks, eloquence, and charisma, Percy was used to being chased by women. Some rumors even declared him a deadly Casanova. Another interesting about him was his radical or unconventional beliefs like the non-existence of a god.

Before we could deepen our discussion, the bell suddenly rang. I looked at my watch, and twenty minutes had just passed. Nonetheless, students headed outside the classroom.

Then, I finally remembered that there would be a short program to be held in the multi-purpose hall. Lazily and unwillingly, I strode going to the hall which happened to be on the left-wing. This would be a long walk, and I couldn’t be more grateful.

Reaching finally the hall, I stood at the sideline as the seats were all occupied by both teachers and students. On the stage was President Shin along with other high-ranking officials seated on chairs while Mr. Kim was delivering his speech.

“If there’s one thing I’m good at, it would be making money, but if there’s one thing I’m extremely terrible, it would be spending money. That’s why I donated to your school.”

A hearty laugh sounded in the hall, headed by none other than President Shin. I couldn’t help but cringe either at President Shin’s boisterous laugh or Mr. Kim’s friendly façade.

“On a serious note, though, I really hope that the donated money will go to a good cause, in which students will benefit the most. Investing in education means investing for the future…”

My mind suddenly reminisced the moment when I asked Mr. Kim as to how he persuaded President Shin, to which he replied that I’ll find it out in a couple of days. Instantly, I froze. Was this how he kept his bargain? By donating money? But, how much? Turning to the student next to me, I asked her as to how much Mr. Kim had donated.

“I think it's half-billion dollars," the student replied.

“What?” My voice raised out of shock and disbelief.

“He’s a billionaire after all,” the student commented.

I quickly looked at Mr. Kim who was still addressing the audience. My instinct was telling me not to get involved with him anymore. Wealthy and powerful men were the most dangerous breed of males.

A thunderous clap broke my reverie as Mr. Kim’s speech was finally over. Students and teachers started to file out while gushing or praising Mr. Kim’s generosity or kindness. I, on the other hand, remained quiet while thinking if only they knew.

“Professor Smith, Professor Smith,” a woman’s voice was calling me out from behind.

I turned around and watched Ms. Park struggle to get past the crowd. “I’ve been wanting to talk with you, but we’ve been busy these couple of days,” she said when she finally reached me.

“Is there anything you want?” I asked.

“I want to thank you for coming over to the party. I didn’t know that…” she trailed and looked down at her feet. “Well, I just want to treat you to a meal after your class this afternoon,” she was now looking at me with her bright brown eyes.

“It’s really unnecessary, Ms. Park.”

“No, I insist, Professor Smith.”

Examining her determined face, I finally gave in, “Okay.”

“Professor Smith, our path has crossed once again.”

I knew that deep male voice, but I pretended I heard nothing. “I’ll see you after class, Ms. Park.” I did not wait for her to reply and quickly walked away from her or more particularly, from that man. However, with my 6-inch high heels, it was seemingly futile. The next minute, Mr. Kim was on my side, easily keeping up with my pace.

“Don’t you think it’s a bit rude to ignore the guest of your school?” That mocking tone was easily getting on my nerves.

Though, he had a point. We’re in the school: he was the guest, I was the professor. I should at least show some courtesy.

Abruptly stopping, I turned to him and said, “I do apologize if my behavior offends you, Mr. Kim. Also, let me express my gratitude for donating a generous amount to our school. We highly appreciate your kindness,” I made sure my tone was professional and not sarcastic.

The playful expression on his face quickly changed into a somewhat dark and grim that exuded one word—danger. This was what's behind his friendly façade, his true nature, though I didn’t know what triggered him to reveal it willingly.

“Mr. Kim, President Shin is waiting for you. You’ll now be having your lunch,” a female suddenly voiced out.

Our intense stare was quickly broken as I turned my attention to the owner of that very familiar voice—Sophie. However, she was caught up with Mr. Kim’s presence as though she was studying his every movement.

Without turning to Sophie, he uttered sternly, “Tell President Shin to go ahead. I’ll just have a nice chat with Professor Smith.”

For the first time after more than three months, Sophie’s eyes and mine met, and I swore I could detect concern there. Nonetheless, she left the two of us.

To ease the tension between us, I decided to remain professional. “Is there anything particular you want to speak about, Mr. Kim?”

“Cut out that polite tone. It’s just the two of us here,” he snapped.

I looked around and was surprised that everyone was gone. Still, I remained calm and looked at him with my head raised higher to meet his steady gaze. “What do you want?”

A wide grin slowly appeared on his face. “That’s better. I like it when you're feisty.”

I fought the urge to roll my eyes. Though, I remembered my feistiness turned him on but discovered just now that my polite demeanor irritated him. That’s interesting. Quickly I dismissed that thought as I shook my head. “If you want to say something, say it now.” I told him.

“Let’s date,” was his straightforward answer.

“Why?” I asked in confusion.

“Isn’t it obvious?” He asked with an amused expression.

“I wouldn’t ask if it is.” I retorted back.

Grinning, he moved closer to me while I remained absolutely still. “I’m extremely attracted to you,” he said in his deep, husky voice,

“I don’t feel the same way,” was my quick honest reply.

He fell back while pursing his lip rather tightly. “But, you still owe me one.”

“I don’t owe you anything.”

“Do you honestly think I believe the stunt you pulled off at the party? You’d never ask me to dance if not for your ex. I played my part well, so how are you going to reward me?” This time, a smirk was mockingly playing across his lips.

My mind once again reminded me how dangerous it was to play along with this kind of man. The mere fact that he knew about my past relationship with Howard led me to the conclusion that he had me background check. I shook my head; I was overanalyzing. He might have learned it from President Shin or overheard professors talking about it.

“So, what now, Faith?” He sounded impatient.

“Fine, just one date.” A single date wouldn’t hurt me, I was repeatedly convincing myself.

“Saturday, 7:00 p.m. sharp at Chogi Hotel.”

I simply nodded. “Is there anything else?”

That mocking smirk that I wanted so desperately to wipe off seemed to have plastered permanently to his face. “If you want, you can join me in my lunch with Pres—”

“No, thanks.” And I walked away from him and as fast as I could be.

“Don’t forget Saturday,” I heard him shout.

Thankfully, there were no people around, still his action infuriated me. But then, the rest of the day went so smoothly that it made me forget my encounter with Mr. Kim. Also, Ms. Park and I were having a meal in a steak house, one of my favorite restaurants.

“You know, I think Mr. Kim likes you,” she said casually while chewing slowly the steak.

The mention of that man's name ruined my current good mood that I was cutting my steak more forcefully.

“You don’t like him,” it was a statement, not a question. She might have noticed the sudden change in my mood. “Well, Mr. Kim isn’t exactly a prince-like looking or a hot model, but believe me, many women would have wanted your place. That man is a freaking billionaire. His net worth is like 48 billion dollars.

“Is there any way I created this impression of being a gold-digger type of woman, Ms. Park?” I kept my voice low and indifferent.

Ms. Park choked while drinking a juice. I handed her a tissue as she continuously coughed. When she already composed herself, she explained, “No, Professor Smith. I’m just implying he’s a good catch.”

“Money nor looks are my least concern when estimating a man or any person’s worth,” I stated plainly.

She nodded understandingly. “But let me just tell you that Mr. Kim is currently the top 20 richest men in the world. His company Manurabis is known to be the largest e-commerce in the whole freaking world. It’s even bigger than X-bay or Emmazon, would you believe that?”

“And how did you find that out?” I honestly detested women whose obsession was to stalk some guy on social media, instead of pursuing their own career and becoming successful in some way.

“President Shin told me to research about him. But, you know, anyone who is involved in e-business knows about that.”

I sighed out of relief. Thank goodness she wasn’t that fickle-minded type of woman. “So, you’re interested in business?”

“I have to because I’m planning on building my own fashion brand.”

Her answer confused me. “What’s your course, by the way?”

“Fashion designing.” She quickly answered and put a spoonful of steak in her mouth.

“And how did you end up being a secretary?”

“It’s tough finding a stable job especially for a fresh graduate like me. But, I’m a part-time contributor to a fashion magazine. I’m just saving enough money, so when I become an apprentice in XARA, at least, I have something in my pocket.”

As a fashion enthusiast, I was well aware that XARA was the top fashion brand here in Yeonghon. Ms. Park was indeed an ambitious woman, and I was truly pleased that I had dinner with her. It’s good to know a woman who had high ambition and knew exactly how to fulfill it. “I really hope you’ll become successful, Ms. Park.”

“Thank you, Professor Smith. But you can just call me Hazel,” she said with a bright smile.

“Sure, Hazel.” I tried to smile back, but my lips twitched only.

Before she could reply, Sophie, out of nowhere, stood in front of us and cleared her throat loudly enough to catch our attention.

“I just want to warn you to stay away from Mr. Kim. He is known to be a notorious womanizer. So, if I were you, I’ll maintain a safe distance from him,” she quickly said and left.

My mind struggled to process what had just happened. Did Sophie really talk to me? Was she genuinely concerned to me? Though uncertain, I couldn’t deny that I was slightly affected by Sophie’s action.

“Looks like someone’s feeling guilty.” It’s my first time hearing Hazel’s resentful tone.

Turning to her, I noticed her throwing a dagger look at Sophie who was heading out of the restaurant.

“You knew?” I asked meaningfully.

“Mr. Wang, the other secretary, told me about it when you visited President Shin’s office,” she answered honestly.

“Some men like to gossip, too,” I commented.

Hazel shrugged. “Well, everyone’s been talking about what happened to you and Professor Moon’s brother. If I knew he’s invited to President Shin’s birthday, I could have not—”

“That’s okay. We’re going to meet somewhere anyway.”

Hazel was sensitive enough to change the topic and animatedly described the countless designs she had drawn while I listened to her. When we parted ways, I couldn’t help but feel warm inside.

Looked like I’ll be having a good sleep tonight without drinking. I shook my head…probably, just a little.