Episode 9 of "Romance in the House" unfolds with a vibrant dawn, as Mi-rae embarks on her day, accompanied by the awkward yet endearing Tae-pyeong. Their steps outside her idyllic villa echo with the tenderness of a fledgling romance, both navigating the delicate waters of their honeymoon phase with palpable nervousness.
Yet, upon Mi-rae's return home, a jarring revelation awaits. Ae-yeon, her mother, stands firm, having replaced the locks to their shared abode. Her words, though direct, are imbued with love as she gently urges Mi-rae to soar, to spread her wings and embark on her own journey. This pivotal moment marks Ae-yeon's decision to take a step back, allowing her daughter the freedom to fly solo.
Mi-rae, overwhelmed by emotion, struggles to comprehend the sudden change, while Ae-yeon maintains her composure, her resolve unbroken. However, as soon as she disappears from view, a tender scene unfolds where Moo-jin, Ae-yeon's husband, awaits to offer a shoulder to cry on. He whispers words of solace, encouraging her to let the tears flow freely, a testament to their unwavering support for each other.
As dawn gives way to a bustling morning, Mi-rae awakens to a flurry of messages. Among them, a beacon of hope shines from Tae-pyeong, who has received an unexpected invitation from Mr. Nam—a chance to embark on a three-month internship. The offer, tinged with both encouragement and a hint of challenge, sets Tae-pyeong's heart at ease.
Meanwhile, Mi-rae channels her pent-up emotions into physical exertion, arriving at the taekwondo studio with a fierce determination to shatter boards. In contrast, Ae-yeon finds solace in Moo-jin's company, who confesses his earnest desire to be the father he never had the chance to be, striving to make amends for the past.
But beneath this veneer of tranquility, storm clouds gather. The landlord's daughter, fueled by her own investigation, uncovers a web of deceit involving Dragon Investment and the former landlord. Suspecting coercion, she confronts Jae-geol, their mutual acquaintance, with her discoveries, her voice laced with warning as she demands an end to their deceitful ways. The stage is set for a dramatic unraveling, as the intricate threads of their lives begin to fray at the seams.
As Jae-geol exits the office, his path serendipitously crosses with Jeong-in's, leading them to indulge in a shared meal. However, when the moment arises for Jeong-in to offer to foot the bill, Jae-geol adamantly slaps down a note, his pride bristling as he declares his refusal to accept her generosity.
Mi-rae confronts Moo-jin head-on, her inquiries piercing through his intentions. He confesses uncertainty in his ability to perpetually delight her, yet vows to strive relentlessly to be her rock. Furthermore, he offers solace, assuring her that the family's foundation remains steadfast, unaffected by her absence. Though initially displeased by their unilateral decision, Mi-rae's heart begins to soften, hinting at a forthcoming reconciliation.
Ae-yeon finds solace in Tae-pyeong's words, who artfully convinces her of his genuine concern for Mi-rae's wellbeing. His confession of admiration for her resonates deeply, melting any lingering doubts Ae-yeon may have harbored.
The following dawn, Moo-jin confronts Hyeon-jae with stark honesty, issuing an ultimatum: return to school. Moreover, he announces his intention to shoulder the financial burden of Hyeon-jae's tuition, leaving the latter bewildered and inquisitive about the enigmatic source of Moo-jin's sudden affluence. Meanwhile, the landlord's daughter sneaks into the picture, her presence around the villa arousing suspicion.
Eventually, she confronts Mi-rae, her tone laced with foreboding as she promises revelations about Mi-rae's true identity. Posing as the woman who once wept at Moo-jin's hands, she taunts Mi-rae with the prospect of being the daughter of a wealthy father, her words shrouded in mystery but foreshadowing turbulent times ahead.
Meanwhile, Ae-yeon embarks on a quest for part-time employment, her efforts rewarded with a job offer from a salon. The ladies there are instantly captivated by her aesthetic, envisioning her as a natural in front of the camera. Initially hesitant, Ae-yeon is swayed by the lucrative pay, her curiosity piqued.
Tae-pyeong's thoughtful gestures extend beyond the workplace, as he surprises Mi-rae with gifts, fostering sweet moments between them. Upon arriving home, Mi-rae is confronted with a chaotic scene, sparking her resolve to restore order. As she delves into the arduous task of cleaning, she realizes the daunting challenge it poses, the pursuit of perfection seeming both relentless and elusive.
As she indulges in a hearty meal of rice, Mi-rae stumbles upon a letter cleverly concealed amidst the corners of stacked boxes. It's a heartfelt missive from Ae-yeon, lamenting the arduous task of juggling household chores amidst the demands of her profession. Embedded within its words are profound words of wisdom, reminding Mi-rae of their shared future where their abode will be a haven of tranquility, not a battlefield of endless strife.
Empowered by this newfound understanding, Mi-rae strides confidently to Ae-yeon's abode, effortlessly unlocking the door with the familiar passcode. There, the two women find solace in each other's presence, sharing a profound moment of empathy and camaraderie. Mi-rae's eyes finally open wide to the immense challenge of being the pillar of the household, and her heart swells with gratitude for Ae-yeon's unwavering dedication to keeping everything afloat. Their conversation, rich with emotional depth, steals the spotlight in this episode, painting a vivid picture of sisterly bond and mutual respect.
Elsewhere, Moo-jin's anxiety boils over as he dials a number, seeking counsel amidst fears that "the woman" holds all the cards. But the cool response on the other end of the line is a stark reminder of solitude; they refuse to be drawn into his web of worries, urging him to navigate his predicament solo.
Meanwhile, a surprise ripples through the workplace as Tae-pyeong strides in, donning the mantle of a fresh intern. To Mi-rae's dismay, Mr. Nam not only introduces him as his son but also announces an unexpected twist – she is to be Tae-pyeong's mentor. The revelation sends a ripple of tension through the air, foreshadowing a tumultuous journey ahead for the unlikely duo.
