Love Wins All (Chaesoo Fluffs)

23. Finding the start

Jisoo sat on her bed, staring at the college brochures scattered around her. The colorful pamphlets and glossy covers were supposed to inspire excitement, but all they did was fill her with a sense of dread. She had no idea what she wanted to do with her life, and the pressure to decide was overwhelming.

Sighing, she stood up and headed downstairs to find her mom, Tiffany. Tiffany was in the kitchen, preparing dinner. Jisoo hesitated in the doorway before stepping inside.

“Mom, can I talk to you?” Jisoo asked, her voice uncertain.

Tiffany looked up from chopping vegetables and smiled warmly. “Of course, sweetheart. What’s on your mind?”

Jisoo took a seat at the kitchen island, fidgeting with her hands. “I’m really struggling with this whole college thing. I don’t know what I want to do.”

Tiffany set down the knife and walked over to sit beside her daughter. “That’s completely normal, Jisoo. It’s a big decision. Have you thought about what you’re passionate about or what you enjoy doing?”

Jisoo shrugged, her eyes downcast. “I just… I just want to be with Chaeyoung. I want to be a part of her life.”

Tiffany chuckled softly, reaching out to squeeze Jisoo’s hand. “Sweetheart, I understand that. But Chaeyoung’s going to have her own life, too. You need to think about what will make you happy and fulfilled.”

Jisoo nodded, biting her lip. “I know, but it’s hard to figure out.”

Tiffany smiled gently. “Why don’t you talk to Taeyeon? She’s been through a lot and might have some good advice.”

Jisoo agreed and made her way to Taeyeon’s study. She knocked lightly before opening the door. Taeyeon looked up from her work and smiled.

“Hey, Jisoo. Come on in.”

Jisoo took a seat across from Taeyeon, feeling a bit more at ease. “Taeyeon, I need your advice. I’m really lost about what to do after high school.”

Taeyeon leaned back in her chair, giving Jisoo her full attention. “It’s a tough decision. Have you thought about what you’re interested in or passionate about?”

Jisoo shook her head. “Not really. I just feel so pressured to decide right away.”

Taeyeon nodded understandingly. “I get that. When I graduated, I didn’t go to college. I went straight into the workforce. My family had money, and I inherited my father’s business at a young age. It wasn’t easy, but I learned a lot along the way.”

Jisoo looked surprised. “You didn’t go to college?”

Taeyeon smiled. “No, I didn’t. And it worked out for me. Everyone’s path is different. It’s okay to take some time to figure out who you are and what you want. There’s no rush.”

Jisoo felt a wave of relief wash over her. “Did Mom know about this?”

Taeyeon nodded. “Yes, Tiffany knew and she never doubted my intelligence. She understood that I needed to find my own way.”

Jisoo took a deep breath. “So, it’s okay if I don’t have everything figured out right now?”

Taeyeon reached across the desk to take Jisoo’s hand. “Absolutely. It’s more than okay. Take the time to explore your interests, try different things, and focus on yourself. You’ll figure it out in your own time.”

Jisoo smiled, feeling a weight lift off her shoulders. “Thank you, Taeyeon. I really needed to hear that.”

Taeyeon squeezed her hand. “Anytime, Jisoo. Remember, life is a journey, and there’s no right or wrong way to navigate it. Just do what feels right for you.”

As Jisoo left Taeyeon’s study, she felt a newfound sense of clarity. She didn’t need to have all the answers right away. She could take her time, explore her passions, and find her own path. And no matter what, she knew she had the support of her family and Chaeyoung.

That was all she needed for now.