Resonance

Present Realities

As the days passed, Hyu-Joo found herself immersed in her studies, the weight of In-Sung's question never far from her thoughts. The routine of her daily life was a backdrop to the anticipation that had settled within her, a constant reminder of the unspoken answer she held.

One evening, on her way to her room, a loud news report about aviation caught her attention. Her curiosity piqued, she paused to watch the broadcast. The news reported a plane crash involving student pilots from another university. Dread knotted in her stomach as she absorbed the information.

Without hesitation, Hyu-Joo rushed through the university corridors, searching for Seung-Ryeong's department. Panic and worry fueled her steps as she frantically looked for answers. Yet, her search proved futile, and she soon found herself running through the campus, her heart pounding.

Breathless and on the verge of tears, someone's hands grasped her shoulders, stopping her in her tracks. Trembling, she turned to face the person who had halted her frantic run, and a smile broke across her face through her exhaustion. It was In-Sung.

Confusion mingled with relief in her gaze as she tried to comprehend his presence. In-Sung's voice cut through the whirlwind of emotions. "Hey, why were you running like that?"

Hyu-Joo's breath hitched, and tears welled in her eyes. She answered, her voice tinged with both relief and concern, "I... I heard about the plane crash involving student pilots..."

In-Sung's expression softened, understanding dawning on him. "Ah, I see. We're actually coming back a day early because of that incident. Everyone's fine."

Hyu-Joo's relief spilled over, and tears began to stream down her cheeks. The flood of emotions was overwhelming, a mixture of pent-up worry and the weight of the past week.

In-Sung's surprise at her tears was evident, his concern immediate. "Hey, why are you crying?"

Through her tears, Hyu-Joo managed to muster a weak laugh. "I was just... so worried."

In-Sung's laughter rang out, warm and sincere, as he pulled her into a comforting embrace. "You worry too much, you know?"

Hyu-Joo's voice was a mixture of reproach and fondness. "Stop laughing. You have no idea how worried I've been."

In-Sung's laughter subsided, replaced by a tender smile. As he held her close, Hyu-Joo's heart steadied in the security of his presence.

Then, the moment shifted, as In-Sung's voice grew serious, his gaze unwavering. "So, have you thought about it? What's your answer?"

Hyu-Joo's heart raced as she whispered her answer, her voice carrying all the sincerity in her heart.

With uncontainable joy, In-Sung's face lit up, a radiant smile illuminating his features. And in that moment, a kiss filled with happiness and promise sealed their unspoken agreement.

As their lips met, the worries of the past week seemed to fade away, replaced by a newfound certainty and the sweet taste of the future they were beginning to build together.

Han Hyu-Joo wiped her hands on her apron, lost in thought as she stirred a pot of simmering sauce. The busy kitchen of her restaurant buzzed around her, but her mind was far away. Thoughts of Jo In-sung's unexpected return to her life consumed her. She couldn't help but wonder if their paths would cross again, and worse, if her son Jung-Ha would discover the truth about their past.

As she continued to cook, her distraction led to an accident. A sizzling spark leapt from the pan, grazing her hand. The pain brought her back to reality. Ignoring her discomfort, she assured her concerned staff that she was fine and continued her work. Stepping out of the kitchen, she let out a sigh of both relief and worry.