CHAPTER 13 - ETBC

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Anhee

"Mom?" I called out, catching sight of her deep in conversation with Mrs. Min. She was seated on the couch, her usual serious expression softening as she looked up and saw me. Her stern face broke into a rare, warm smile.

Before I could utter another word, she sprang to her feet and wrapped me in a tight hug. It was unusual, this sudden display of affection. Growing up, she hadn't been very demonstrative, her days consumed with the hard work of selling fish. Life had been tough on both of us, and I understood why she had kept her distance emotionally.

"I'm sorry for not answering your calls and texts, I was busy, my dear Anhee. How have you been?" she asked, cupping my face with her hands. I was at a loss for words, so I simply nodded. She gestured for me to sit down.

"You must've missed your only daughter, Sora. It's okay, we assure you that she's doing well, especially since she's under our roof," Mrs. Min chimed in.

"I was really worried about how she's been doing. I'm relieved that Yoongi and she go to the same school. This way, I can keep an eye on her," my mother confessed, her voice tinged with concern.

"Oh, yes, they sure do. And I'm glad to say that they get along pretty well," Mrs. Min added. Just then, Yoongi walked in, his usual composed demeanor intact, coat and bag in hand. He politely bowed as his mother introduced him.

"Oh, you're here, my son. Say hi to Mrs. Hwang," Mrs. Min said.

"Hello, good evening, Mrs. Hwang. Welcome to our home," Yoongi greeted her with a respectful bow.

"What a kind boy. Come, sit with us. I brought some Napjak Mandu. Have a treat," my mother offered, her eyes gleaming with pride.

"Of course. This is for my daughter too. I made these especially for you," she said, looking at me. It was strange to see her so enthusiastic about cooking for me. She had rarely done that with a smile, but I decided to savour the moment.

"Are you sure you're heading home now? You came all the way to Daegu just to cook that. At least have dinner with us. I know you've been missing Anhee," Mrs. Min urged.

"Oh no, it's okay-"

"I insist, Sora. We really appreciate what you did for us," Mrs Min interjected.

"If that's the case, then... I couldn't deny how much I've missed my daughter," my mother said, her voice softening as she caressed my hand.

"Oh! Sora! Long time no see! You're here!" Mr. Min exclaimed, his presence lighting up the room. Everyone exchanged smiles.

"It's nice seeing everyone together. You know what, Eun Jin, you're right. Sora, you should stay and eat with us," Mr. Min added.

"Ha, I can't say no to you, Gwang-ho," my mother responded, laughter filling the room.

As the evening unfolded, everyone settled in for dinner. Yoongi and I busied ourselves setting the table and making sure everything was perfect. The night was a blend of shared stories, laughter, and a sense of warmth that I had longed for. It felt good to have my mother there, to see her smile, and to be surrounded by the kindness of the Min family. For once, life felt a little less harsh, and a lot more hopeful.

As we gathered around the dinner table, the room buzzed with a contagious energy of joy. Laughter rang out, punctuating our conversations, and everyone seemed to be in high spirits. It struck me as odd, in the best way possible, to see Mom so genuinely happy. She was usually so reserved, but tonight, surrounded by her friends, she seemed to glow with a happiness that had been missing for far too long. It was clear that being with people she cherished had brought out a side of her I hadn't seen in ages.

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