章 27: Talk With Kim Min-seok

As Joon-won settled back into his seat, he couldn't help but notice Jung-hwa, her mouth agape as she stared at the ongoing practice session in the middle of the classroom. He shook his head, thinking, "Does this girl have a knack for catching flies? She gets shocked over the smallest things."

He gently knocked her chin up again, and she snapped out of her daze, turning to him with wide eyes. "Do you realize what you just did? Should we go to the hospital to get you checked?" Her expression morphed from shock to worry.

Joon-won shrugged, uninterested in explaining himself. Jung-hwa, sensing his calm demeanor, reminded him, "You should be careful. Roh Ji is quite popular, and her family is well off compared to ours. She's known to be very vengeful." She stood up as she was called for another part, leaving him with a lingering sense of her concern.

The day progressed, and Joon-won was summoned for his second and final scene. This time, he had to interact with a student who resembled a teacher, sporting a thick beard. Surprisingly, Roh Ji managed to restrain herself and didn't cause any disruptions when he ignored her.

With no further reason to stay, Joon-won packed his bag, texted Jung-hwa who was busy preparing for her part, and left the class. Checking his watch, he noted it was only 5 PM and took his time heading home.

Upon arrival, he indulged in a refreshing bath, enjoying the rare opportunity for relaxation. Feeling rejuvenated, he sprawled on the couch and resumed reading Eum Kyung's book. Despite his previous critique, he hoped to find redeeming qualities in the manuscript.

An hour passed quickly, and he set the book aside, pondering how to frame his feedback constructively. His phone buzzed, and he saw his dad, Kim Min-seok, calling. Hesitating momentarily, he reminded himself of his resolve to embrace Kim Joon-won's life, family included. He answered the call.

"Ah! Joon-won, you picked up," Min-seok's voice was warm and slightly hesitant. "I wasn't sure if I should call. Are your classes done for the day?"

Joon-won's lips curved into a smile at the sound of his father's voice. There was something inherently comforting about Min-seok's concern. "I'm fine, Dad. No need to hesitate to call me. I can answer anytime. No classes this week, remember? I told you my final exam is this weekend. It's a drama performance, and we'll be graded on our acting."

Min-seok chuckled, a hint of sheepishness in his tone. "Oh, right. You did mention that. Old age must be catching up with me. Do your best to pass. You wouldn't want to be stuck with juniors next year. By the way, are you low on money? I can send you some if you need it."

Joon-won shook his head at his dad's low expectations. "No, don't send any money. Isn't Yun-hee in her last year of high school? If she decides to continue her studies, we'll need funds for that. I'm managing fine here."

Kim Yun-hee, the youngest member of their small family, was much more talented and academically inclined than the old Joon-won. Her intelligence and potential were apparent in his inherited memories. She deserved every opportunity to succeed.

Min-seok sighed, his concern palpable. "Ah, Yun-hee. I don't even know what she's up to these days. She's always out and comes home late. I'm worried she's not focusing on her studies."

Joon-won paused, sensing his father's anxiety. "Don't worry too much. Yun-hee is more sensible and intelligent than I ever was. She must have her reasons. I'll talk to her. She's destined for something great, Dad. Trust me."

Min-seok's voice quivered, a mixture of relief and lingering concern. "I hope you're right, Joon-won. You two are all I have, and I don't want to see either of you wasting your lives."

Joon-won's heart ached slightly at his father's words. He understood the fear of seeing a child take the wrong path in life. In his past life as a king, he had secretly monitored his children, terrified they might stray. Fortunately, they had turned out well, but the worry never left him.

"Don't stress too much about it, Dad. How are you doing? Are you out of work now?" he asked, steering the conversation to lighter grounds.

"Yes, I left early today. I'm at home," Min-seok replied.

Kim Min-seok worked at a mid-tier company, earning enough to keep their family of three afloat. Despite their lower-middle-class status, he harbored high hopes for both his children, believing they were smarter and more capable than him.

"How's your health holding up? Everything okay?" Joon-won inquired, genuine concern lacing his voice.

"Don't underestimate your old man," Min-seok scoffed lightly. "I still feel like I'm in my prime. Just focus on achieving your dream of becoming an actor."

Joon-won knew his father was downplaying his struggles to reassure him. Min-seok was in his late 40s, and the strain of his job was evident. But their financial situation didn't allow for easy decisions, and Joon-won understood the burden his father bore.

"Alright, Dad. I will. Take care of yourself, and don't overwork." They exchanged a few more pleasantries before ending the call.

As the line disconnected, Joon-won leaned back, his mind drifting to his family. He was determined to make the most of his new life, not just for himself but for them too. The responsibilities and aspirations he had inherited with Kim Joon-won's life were now his own, and he was ready to embrace them fully.