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Saneul adjusted her dress nervously, trying to keep her emotions in check. The auditorium was filled with proud families and excited graduates, but she felt a heavy weight on her shoulders.

Today was supposed to be a celebration, not just for her brother Haneul's white coat ceremony but also for her own birthday. Yet, her parents had once again forgotten.

As the ceremony commenced, Saneul watched Haneul walk across the stage with pride. He had always been the golden child, and she admired him for his hard work and dedication. Despite the tension between her and her parents, she was genuinely happy for her older brother.

Saneuleul's story

When the ceremony ended, the family waited outside for Haneul

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When the ceremony ended, the family waited outside for Haneul. The air was thick with unspoken words. Saneul's parents stood stiffly, their disapproval evident in their posture. They had barely spoken to her since their last argument.

"Saneul," her mother started, breaking the silence.

She immediately straightened her posture, not really expecting much, but deep down, she wished her parents remembered her birthday.

"We've seen those videos you've been making. Your father's friend showed them to us."

Her father frowned, his disapproval clear. "You need to focus on your studies, not waste time on frivolous activities."

So they knew about them and didn't even bother to congratulate me for working hard towards my goal?

Saneul clenched her fists, anger boiling inside her. "Frivolous? I'm passionate in this field. It's not a waste of time if it's going to help me build a good portfolio for my future."

Her mother shook her head. "You're losing sight of what's important. School should be your priority."

Saneul scoffed. "Yeah just like how that is your priority right? Two top university graduates caring more about school than-"

Before Saneul could finish her sentence, Haneul approached, sensing the tension. He placed a calming hand on her shoulder. "Hey, let's not ruin today. It's a special day for all of us."

He reached into his pocket and handed Saneul a small gift, smiling warmly. "Happy birthday, baby sis! Congratulations on turning 20!"

Saneul's eyes welled up with tears as she took the gift, giving her brother a tight hug. "Thank you, Haneul." She turned to her parents, her voice trembling with hurt. "You forgot again, didn't you?"

Her parents exchanged guilty glances but said nothing. Feeling a mix of anger and sadness, Saneul bolted from the university grounds, her feet carrying her to the one place she knew she'd find solace: Taesan's dorm.

She had been hanging out with him quite frequently due to her newly appointed role as their manager so she knew the way to his dorm like the back of her hand.

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