Second Chance

17

"You are very brave person to marry my daughter." Mrs. Park says as she accepted the cup of tea Jennie offered, "Thank you, Jennie."

"Of course, ma'am"

"Thank you, Mrs. Park," Jisoo replied, her voice soft with emotion, "Your daughter has taught me everything there is and I wouldn't change it for the world." 

Mrs. Park smiled warmly at Jisoo's heartfelt words, her eyes reflecting a mixture of pride and affection. "Chaeyoung has always had a way of bringing out the best in people," she remarked, her tone filled with maternal pride. "I'm glad to see that you appreciate her for who she truly is."

Jisoo nodded, her gaze softening as she met Mrs. Park's eyes. "She's truly one of a kind," she agreed, her voice tinged with reverence. "I feel incredibly fortunate to have her in my life."

"I'm sure she feels the same about you," Mrs. Park replied, her expression softening with maternal warmth. "You've brought so much joy and happiness into her life, and for that, I am truly grateful."

Talking to Mrs. Park felt like stepping into a world that was entirely foreign to Jisoo. She had never shared such intimate conversations with her own mother, never felt the same sense of ease and acceptance that she experienced with Chaeyoung's mother. Chaeyoung was lucky to have such a woman in her life. She felt like she could tell her anything- although it was risky since she wasn't actually from here. Deep down, Jisoo knew she was going in too deep. Her only goal was becoming something else. 

"You know, would you like to take a walk?" Mrs. Park offered, "I think we could use some fresh air."

"Oh, I have to show you the garden! we added new flowers."

"Oh really?"

Meanwhile, the air in Chaeyoung's study was heavy with tension as she sat across from her father, their gazes locked in a silent battle of wills. She had chosen her career path years ago, following her passion for teaching and academia, but her father had never fully accepted her decision.

"I don't understand why you insist on wasting your talents like this," Mr. Park said, his voice laced with frustration. "Becoming a college professor is hardly a respectable career compared to what you could achieve in the family business."

Chaeyoung felt her jaw tighten at her father's words, but she remained composed, her fingers tracing absentminded patterns on the surface of her desk. "Respectable or not, this is what I love to do," she replied, her tone firm. "I've worked hard to get where I am, and I won't give up on my dreams just to please your expectations." 

"Don't tell me you really taking the painting rejection thing to heart?" He crossed his arms.

"It's not just about painting, Father," she said, her voice tinged with emotion. "It's about following my heart and pursuing what makes me truly happy. Teaching allows me to make a difference in the lives of others, and that's something I value deeply."

"You have a responsibility to the family legacy. The business needs you, and your talents would be put to better use there."

"I know you want what's best for me, Father," she said, her voice weary. "But I can't sacrifice my own happiness for the sake of tradition. I need to live my life on my own terms, even if it means disappointing you."

"Does your wife-"

"Jisoo has nothing to do with my decision." 

Chaeyoung's words were firm, her gaze steady as she met her father's questioning look. "This is about me and what I want for my future," she continued, her voice unwavering. 

"Jisoo supports me in whatever path I choose, but ultimately, this decision is mine alone." 

The warm sunlight embraced her, casting a golden glow over the lush garden that her mother and Jisoo were admiring. They were engrossed in conversation about the newly planted flowers, their voices mingling with the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze.

Chaeyoung approached them quietly, her heart swelling with affection as she watched her mother and wife bond over their shared love for gardening. Without a word, she wrapped her arms around Jisoo from behind, pressing a soft kiss to the back of her neck.

Jisoo leaned into Chaeyoung's embrace, a smile gracing her lips as she reached up to intertwine her fingers with Chaeyoung's.

This is not how things are supposed to be.