My Healing Forever

CHAPTER 9

The days seemed to crawl by, each training session dragging out as we all eagerly awaited the announcement from Commander Kang. We threw ourselves into the drills with a new vigor, knowing that soon we'd have a well-deserved break.

Finally, the day arrived. Commander Kang gathered us all together, his stern expression softened just a bit.

"Trainees, you've worked hard these past weeks, and I'm proud of your progress. As you know, you'll be taking a break to visit your families. Use this time wisely to rest and recharge. We'll resume training after the break."

A cheer went up from the group, and I felt a rush of relief and happiness. We were given our phones back, and immediately, everyone started messaging their loved ones.

Jeongyeon looked thoughtful. "It's weird, though. As much as I'm looking forward to the break, I know I'll miss the routine here. Not the drills, obviously," she added with a laugh, "but just the sense of purpose."

"I know what you mean," I agreed. "But I think a break will do us all some good. We'll come back stronger and more focused."

The next morning, the atmosphere was electric with excitement. We gathered our things and made our way to the transport that would take us home.

The nurses, including Irene, were also heading back for the break. I spotted her among the group, her expression was unreadable as usual.

The break was finally here, and we were all preparing to head home. The excitement was palpable as everyone packed their bags and got ready for the journey. The trainees and nurses were assigned to different buses for the trip home. 

As I made my way to our bus with my big backpack slung over one shoulder, I accidentally bumped into someone. I looked up and found myself face-to-face with Irene. My heart skipped a beat.

"Oh, I'm so sorry!" I quickly apologized, stepping back.

"It's okay," she replied, her tone neutral.

I started to walk away, but then I noticed Irene struggling with her bags. She was carrying multiple heavy-looking items and seemed to be having a hard time.

Without thinking, I turned back. "Do you need help with those?"

She shook her head. "No, it's fine. I can manage."

But I couldn't just leave her like that. Ignoring her refusal, I grabbed two of the heaviest bags from her hands. "It's one of the things trainees are supposed to do—be helpful."

Irene looked like she was about to protest, but then she just sighed and let me help. We walked in silence towards the nurses' bus, the weight of her bags surprisingly manageable for me. When we reached their bus, I placed the bags inside carefully.

"There you go," I said, trying to keep my tone light. "All set."

Irene just looked at me, her expression unreadable. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," I replied, giving her a small smile. 

She nodded, still not saying much. I took a deep breath, feeling a mixture of relief and sadness.

"Goodbye," I added softly, then turned and walked back to my bus.

As I joined my friends on the trainees' bus, they were already chatting excitedly about their plans for the break. I tried to focus on their conversations and the anticipation of seeing my family, but a part of me couldn't stop thinking about Irene.

Helping her with her bags had been a small gesture, but it felt like a significant moment. I couldn't quite explain why, but maybe it was because, despite everything, I still cared about her.