DAMIR
It's been two years now, and yet the habit never left. Every time I visit Juseon's house, I find myself picking up something for Eli. A new hoodie, a pair of sleek wristwatches, or some trendy shoes I know he'll love. I can't stop myself. It's like a routine I've built, one that I've carried on from how I was raised. My father always took care of me in the little ways, showing love with gifts, and I guess I've come to do the same.
Juseon's been working relentlessly, putting everything he has into getting his company up and running by the end of the year. It's a massive undertaking, and I know the stress of it all. He hasn't had much time for Eli, and that's where I step in. I don't mind. I'm here to make sure Eli's life isn't about the same pressures that Juseon's under. I'm the buffer, the one who can provide the support Eli might need.
It's not just about the gifts, though. I've taken on the responsibility of making sure Eli has what he needs, of being the one who can step in when Juseon can't. I've seen how much Juseon has poured into his work and how much he loves Eli, but I've also seen how hard it is for him to balance the two. So, I've made it my goal to do what I can to ease the burden. It's why I don't mind being there, offering support in whatever way I can.
I see myself as a kind of father figure to Eli sometimes. It's not something I take lightly, but I feel the weight of it. It's a role I've stepped into willingly, even though I never expected it. I care about Eli i always have, always will. He's not my child, but in some ways, he feels like one, and I've always tried to act like I'm someone he can count on. Someone reliable, someone steady.
I might be busy myself, with meetings and managing my business, but I make sure my secretaries handle everything I don't need to be involved in. I only attend the important meetings. I have time for Eli, always. I've learned the value of stepping back when I need to, delegating so I can focus on what really matters. When I'm not in a meeting or dealing with business, I make sure I check on him, make sure he's doing alright, making sure he doesn't feel like he's alone in all this. I make sure he knows I'm there, even when his father can't be.
I've noticed over the years that Eli's changed. He's growing up no longer the quiet, unsure kid I first met, but someone with more confidence, someone who's starting to figure out his place in this country, and in life. He's becoming his own person, and I respect that.
Still, I don't stop showing up with gifts. I guess it's just part of who I am now, part of the way I've been raised. It's what I do. I care about Eli, and I want him to know that, no matter how busy I am or how many meetings I have to attend. He might not need me as much anymore he's getting older, more independent but I'm still here. It's just how it's always been. And, to be honest, I wouldn't have it any other way.
The years have passed, and things have shifted, but this one habit remains. Every time I step into Juseon's house, I find myself reaching for something to give Eli, something to show I'm thinking about him. It's more than just gifts it's a reminder that I care, that I'm here. And as long as I'm around, I'll keep doing it. That's just the way I am.