Resonance

Bound by Bonds

The morning sun filtered through the curtains as Hyu-Joo bustled around the kitchen, preparing her son's favorite breakfast. The sizzle of the frying pan and the aroma of crispy Donkatsu filled the air. She couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and nostalgia knowing that her son was embarking on a new chapter of his life.

"Jung-Ha, wake up! Breakfast is ready," Hyu-Joo called from the kitchen, her voice carrying a motherly warmth.

In his room, Jung-Ha slowly roused from sleep, his mind transitioning from dreams to reality. He stretched his arms and let out a contented sigh. Today was a big day – the first day of college. As he sat up, his eyes landed on the alarm clock. He grinned, realizing that his mother was, as always, ahead of him.

With a newfound burst of energy, Jung-Ha got out of bed and quickly dressed in his college attire. He combed his hair and stood before the mirror, adjusting his tie. His reflection looked back at him – a young man on the cusp of a thrilling adventure.

Downstairs, Hyu-Joo set the table with care. Plates, utensils, and a steaming plate of Donkatsu awaited her son's arrival. She smiled to herself, thinking about how quickly time had passed. It felt like just yesterday that she was sending him off to school for the first time.

Finally, Jung-Ha entered the cozy kitchen, his eyes lighting up at the sight of the breakfast spread. The golden Donkatsu glistened, and the side dishes added an array of colors to the table. He took a seat, and Hyu-Joo placed a plate in front of him.

"Mom, why are you smiling so much?" Jung-Ha asked with a playful grin as he picked up his chopsticks.

Hyu-Joo's smile only widened as she looked at her son. "Can't a mother smile at her accomplished son?"

Jung-Ha rolled his eyes, his cheeks tinted with a hint of embarrassment. "I'm not a little kid anymore, you know. I'm starting college today."

Hyu-Joo's eyes sparkled with affection. "I know, Jung-Ha. But you'll always be my little boy, no matter how grown up you become."

Jung-Ha couldn't help but smile at his mother's words. He knew she meant well, even if it sometimes felt embarrassing. He took a bite of the Donkatsu, savoring the familiar flavors that reminded him of home.

"Stop treating me like a baby, Mom," he teased between bites.

Hyu-Joo chuckled, her gaze filled with maternal pride. "I promise I'll try. But you know, I'll never stop looking at you with love."

Jung-Ha's initial annoyance melted away, replaced by a warm feeling in his chest. He finished his meal and looked up at his mother, his smile reflecting the bond they shared.

"Thanks for the breakfast, Mom," he said sincerely.

Hyu-Joo reached across the table and ruffled his hair affectionately. "Go conquer the world, my brave college student."

As Jung-Ha stood up, ready to take on the challenges of the day, he leaned down and planted a kiss on his mother's cheek. "I will, Mom. And I'll make you proud."

With a final smile, he grabbed his bag and headed for the door. Hyu-Joo watched him go, her heart swelling with a mix of emotions. Her little boy was all grown up, and she couldn't wait to see the amazing journey he was about to embark upon.

As the door closed behind him, she let out a sigh, her smile never fading. The sounds of his footsteps echoed in her ears, a reminder that no matter how much time passed, their bond remained unbreakable.