An upscale Japanese restaurant in Gangnam. Unlike the hallway, crowded with lunch guests, the private room at the back was quiet.

When the heavy door closed, the voices outside cut off.

Beneath an ink painting on the wall, three women's coats lay side by side.

"The abalone is good today."

Min Seoyeong set down her chopsticks.

On a small plate lay tenderly steamed abalone with a dark liver sauce.

The clear soup that followed gave off a faint scent of yuzu.

"It's been a while since I've been here. Still delicious."

Cha Hyeran pressed a napkin to the corners of her mouth.

She was the wife of the Hanguk Group's Ju Gangmin and the chief of Seorim Gallery. For a woman who met clients at every exhibition, a restaurant like this was more than a place to eat.

"Thanks to you, Madam Min, I'm eating like a queen."

Go Miyu smiled across the table too. As befit the chief of Ilseong Apparel, her outfit was neat yet eye-catching.

She wore a black jacket with just one small brooch, but the fine fabric and the tailoring made her look far more elegant.

A server set down the next course.

Tuna belly and white fish came on separate plates.

The three of them moved from the food to exhibitions, spring clothes and news of their children.

"Taegyeong starts at Cheonghwa this year, doesn't he?"

Min Seoyeong asked.

"Yes. He still seems like a little kid, and he's already in high school."

"Our Yuna's starting there too. Maybe because she's my late baby, it still worries me to send her off on her own."

"Your youngest, already?"

Cha Hyeran's eyes went wide.

"It feels like just yesterday Changjin started there."

"Doesn't it? My eldest is getting ready to marry, and my youngest is off to high school."

A soft smile spread across Min Seoyeong's face.

Gu Yuna was her late-born youngest daughter. She was due to start at Cheonghwa High School this year, alongside Yun Taegyeong.

"They'll be in the same year, then. I hope they get along."

Go Miyu sounded pleased too.