Episode 12 of "A Virtuous Business" unfolds with Geum-hui embarking on a reflective stroll, her mind consumed by the intricate tale surrounding Do-hyeon. Now unveiled as the elusive mother, she delves into the narrative of her journey thus far.
In the bygone days, Geum-hui embarked on a journey outside the confines of her home, driven by the desire to safeguard her cherished child. This venture introduced her to the harsh realities of poverty—yet paradoxically, it was amidst these trials that she tasted the purest form of happiness. She found genuine joy in her role as a mother, albeit harbored a belief that Do-hyeon would flourish in a different environment.
The inciting incident that steered her life took shape in the aftermath of a devastating fire that engulfed her once-peaceful abode. Blaming herself for the narrow escape from losing her infant, Geum-hui ultimately arrived at a heart-wrenching decision. Motivated by the need to alleviate her parents' burden, she relinquished her child in exchange for medical expenses to treat the burns he had suffered. The pain was unbearable, yet she steadfastly adhered to her resolution.
This poignant revelation ties seamlessly with the closing moments of episode 11, where Geum-hui murmured her heartfelt apologies. These whispered words served as a catalyst for healing, fostering reconciliation between her and Do-hyeon. His recovery seemed to gain momentum, with Won-bong adding a comforting touch by inviting him over for a meal.
Meanwhile, Ju-ri remained blissfully unaware of the unfolding saga. Her world was turned upside down upon discovering Geum-hui's long-lost son. Similarly, Yeong-bok was left in a state of disbelief as the truth unfolded like an unraveling tapestry. Despite their recent awakening to this profound secret, they rallied around Geum-hui, their friendship now fortified by the shared vulnerabilities and life's intimate details.
For Do-hyeon, articulating his feelings remains a formidable challenge, and navigating his interactions with Geum-hui fills him with uncertainty. He yearns to avoid any hint of pressure on her while simultaneously grappling with his own awkwardness. Jeong-suk offers him some sage advice, reassuring him that there's ample time to forge a deeper connection with her. However, this assurance takes a swift turn when he learns of his transfer to the Cold Cases team. A particular case, involving a missing child, has personally been assigned to him—a pivotal opportunity following his triumph in Geumje.
Upon hearing the news, Jeong-suk proposes an ingenious plan: a "Rapid Bonding Initiative," urging Do-hyeon and Geum-hui to bridge their gap before his departure. Elsewhere, Ju-ri and Dae-geun decide to shed the veil of secrecy surrounding their "casual" relationship. They walk the streets openly, with Dae-geun escorting Ju-ri home daily. She's been scouting potential locations for a salon in Oksan, her optimism shining brightly. Yet, Ju-ri is taken aback when she discovers that Dae-geun has been sleeping at the pharmacy lately.
Ju-ri approaches Ms. Heo, readily acquiescing to her terms—but with a stipulation attached. Despite Dae-geun's gesture of presenting her with a framed photograph of their moments together, she confronts him to end their relationship. Heartwrenchingly, Ju-ri turns her back on him, even as Dae-geun pleads that he cannot survive without her. The ordeal leaves her in deep distress, prompting an absence from work.
The stipulation we had heard about was Ms. Heo's demand that Dae-geun resume his photography studies. However, this was far from what Dae-geun desired; he longed to be with Ju-ri. Ms. Heo is taken aback when he doesn't leap at the opportunity.
Eventually, Ms. Heo acknowledges her mistake and swallows her pride, allowing her son to reunite with Ju-ri. Meanwhile, the 'Get Close Quickly' project proceeds, and Jeong-suk and Do-hyeon spend the next week bonding. They indulge in alcohol, Geum-hui prepares a hearty packed lunch, and the duo even experiences a minor spat. Do-hyeon starts to feel at ease and content, yet he's somewhat subdued by the prospect of leaving, wishing Jeong-suk would show more distress over his departure.
Jeong-suk's composed demeanor cracks when Min-ho reveals that, contrary to her appearance, their mother has been weeping at night over his leaving. Min-ho also leaves a heartfelt farewell gift, filled with memories of their shared games. He embraces Do-hyeon, planting a kiss on his cheek and urging him to call if he feels lonely.
With this project concluded, the spotlight shifts to Yeong-bok, who ventures out to greet Jong-soon upon his return from incarceration. While Yeong-bok gives him a swift kick to the shin as a greeting, Jeong-suk returns to Fantasy Lingerie, stunned to find it in a state of disarray, with the pay also missing.
The solitary individual possessing another key happens to be the Director of Fantasy Lingerie. It swiftly dawns on everyone that they've all fallen prey to a deceitful scheme. Jeong-suk is utterly devastated, her spirit shattered as she retreats from the group in silence, unable to utter a single word. Her entire existence seems to have crumbled around her, making it impossible not to feel compassion for her plight. She had poured her heart and soul into this venture, upending her entire life in the pursuit of making it a success.
As dawn breaks the next day, Jeong-suk returns to find the group assembled, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, having cleaned up the mess and resolved to get back on their feet. They've devised a strategy to rectify the situation, creating composite sketches of the CEO and the Director of Fantasy Lingerie to disseminate throughout the town. However, Yeong-bok's artistic prowess leaves much to be desired; nonetheless, the gesture is heartwarming and commendable.
Detective Na is hot on the trail, potentially closing in on a breakthrough. The CEO has been spotted in Incheon, and ironically, Jeong-suk is the one who catches up with her.
The CEO unfolds her tale, explaining that initially, customers flocked to her store, eager to purchase her offerings. Yet, gradually, they began to dwindle, forcing her to shut down the business within six months. Seeking solace in obscurity, she relocated to the countryside, hoping to escape her past. She had liquidated her car to finance the inventory, and when Jeong-suk and her companions stepped in, she admits they exceeded her wildest expectations.
Unfortunately, the individual who sourced the products internationally got entangled in legal troubles, having been arrested presumably due to a tip-off. Now, with the police eager to question her, she's on the lam. Beside herself with indecision, she eventually plunges out of the motel window, her resolve hardening. She vows to persevere and harbors the hope that they'll cross paths again before darting away, marking the end of that chapter.
Determined despite the obstacles, Jeong-suk resolves to forge ahead with her lingerie venture, steadfastly choosing to navigate this path alone. The narrative then leaps four years into the future, where Jeong-suk stands on the brink of unveiling her cozy boutique dedicated to adult essentials, while Do-hyeon reappears in the town, carrying balloons as a harbinger of her business's ascent. This time, Jeong-suk's resolve is unyielding, far more fortified than in her previous endeavors. She eagerly anticipates Do-hyeon as her inaugural customer at the grand opening, symbolizing a fresh start.
Yet, as the day of her dream's fruition draws near, the town erupts in protests against her venture. Yet, Jeong-suk, now seasoned by adversity, embraces the challenge with a renewed determination. She vows to surmount any hurdle that comes her way, committed to making her business thrive amidst the controversy.
