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Leaving the rabbit hole

The gift was done.
The letter was ready.
Clothes ready.
The only thing left is to get onto that plane.
I'll be leaving in an hour.
Today, I tried to avoid my parents and Yumi but I tried to be as close as possible to Jaeseong.
A few hours ago he went somewhere so I easily slipped the gift into his closet.
I kept myself busy with drawing, exercising, and doing chores just so I don't have to feel the pressure that was placed on my shoulders.
Right now I was completely ready.
I wore black sweatpants, a white crop top, and a black bolero on top which I decorated with a few necklaces.
The backpack with a few most important things was ready in my closet.
I placed the letter on the desk, right in the middle.
Big acrylic letters spelled: "For my dear family."
Sliding my fingers over the posters, plastic plants, figurines, books, and drawings I remembered the days, months, and years I spent here.
All of the memories came flooding my mind.
Everything was suddenly so overwhelming.
My childhood wasn't so great, but I lived every second alone, now that I think about it, it wasn't so bad.
At least I had Han and Jeongin.
I look at my phone.
It is 5:35 pm.
It's time.

I grabbed my backpack and went out.
I take a last glance at my room, letting it sink in.
I lied to them that I'll be going to a picnic, even tho they didn't care.
I left without taking a spare glance.
I let the evening, summer view of our street sink in.
The trees, grass, flowers, a small fountain, benches, everything seemed so calming.
I saw a few kids that lived in our street playing in their yard.
Why is everything so touching right now?
As I finally make my way to Han's house, they stood there fully ready with smiles on their faces.
"Minji, my second little girl, promise me you'll take care of yourself there."
Han's mother was the first to embrace me in a hug when I reached their house.
"I promise Auntie!"
Then Han and Jeongin gave me soft hugs with greetings.
"Kids. It'll be much harder this year. Han, Jeongin, you already went there for a year but most of it was held in different schools because it was renovated."
We all nodded in sync.
"Now, the rules will be much more strict and they will pressure you a lot. You two promise me you'll take care of Minji, Minji don't let them do some ridiculous thing."
"Yes ma'am!"
We said in sync.
"It's time. You should go now."
We gave her one last hug before we made our way to the car.
I had to wave to the woman, my second mother, as Han drove us to the bus station.
The ride was quiet, and a few jokes and comments were made but all three of us were deep in our worlds.
It seemed unrealistic.

The bus station wasn't so full of people, not many people travel at this time of the day.
Again, we were quiet.
None of us felt like talking and it was better that way.
I decided I should get us something to drink and eat while we wait.
"I'm gonna get some snacks. Anything special you guys want?"
"Can you get me an integral bar, please?"
Jeongin asked with a soft smile.
"Can you get me one too?"
Han asked as I shuffle my backpack for the wallet.
They gestured for me to take their money but I shake my head.
"My treat."

I also got us some soda as well.
We drank it and finally chatted a little.
"People in Busan will be a little rough so don't take it by heart."
I nod chuckling.
"I won't. One thing I like about them is their Satoori accent."
"Sadly, Jeongin and I lost it."
There was an announcement at the station telling us to get ready, the bus is coming.

Throughout the ride, luckily, we were talking.
Mostly about their experiences in Korea.
It was really interesting to listen to.
When we finally arrived we had another hour to wait.
The process was long but it was worth it.
We ate croissants and some coffee while in the waiting lobby.
Right now, the only thing we're waiting for is to start the flight.
I was nervous. I'm leaving. Finally.
Putting my headphones on I get comfortable in my seat.
Han and Jeongin did the same.
The night is going to be long.
I woke up early today so I'll be able to sleep on the flight.
Announcements from the pilot made everyone calm down.
The plane started moving as I mentally say goodbye.
Immediately I felt the weight off my heart and shoulders.
I turn up the music a little more.
The lyrics drowned my surroundings while I get further into the feeling.
The only thing I thought of right now was how will I adapt.

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