A fate for love

Chapter 22: Elina's trip

Time skip after two weeks

The train station was a whirl of activity, and Elina's eyes were fixed anxiously on Emma as they stood amidst the bustling crowd. Elina's voice carried a note of concern as she fussed over her daughter, her hands moving to adjust Emma's bag and check over her essentials.

"I've shared extra money with you, so don't skip your foods and drink plenty of water also remember to text me when you arrive safely,—" Elina's instructions tumbled out in a cascade, her worry clearly showing as she tried to ensure Emma had everything she needed.

Emma, smiling patiently despite Elina's reminders, gently took Elina's hands in hers. "Mom, calm down," she said with a reassuring tone. "You've told me everything twice on our way here" she said while Elina pouted slightly, her concern not easily eased. "So what? It is the first time you'll be going somewhere without me. Oh wait!! Did you pack extra clothes for the cold? I heard it's cold there, and you can't tolerate it. Your headaches start and then you—" Elina continued while Emma shook her head with a smile. 

"Yes mom, I have taken care of everything, even Sam would be there. So don't worry about me and just focus on having fun at your field trip!!" Emma replied with a smile, as soon as Elina finished speaking.

Elina pouted slightly, her eyes reflecting her worry. "It's not that easy. How could I not worry about you?" Her voice was tinged with a hint of sadness, her anxiety palpable.

Emma laughed softly and pulled her mother into a comforting hug, her arms wrapping around Elina in a gesture of reassurance "Ms. Elina, you need to stop overthinking or you'll end up with wrinkles before you know it," she said with a teasing tone.

Elina's eyes widened in mock surprise, but a smile soon replaced her worried frown as she lightly tapped Emma on the shoulder. "Oh, you're just too clever for your own good," she said with a chuckle.

Emma laughed, her joy evident as they parted from the hug. Just then, Jieun approached, her energy and enthusiasm evident.

"Emma!" Jieun called out, waving excitedly as she walked up to them.

Jieun reached Emma and enveloped her in a warm hug. "Thanks for coming," Emma said, returning the embrace. Jieun pulled back, her eyes sparkling, she then noticed Elina. She gave a small nod of respect, and Elina responded with a polite smile.

Jieun then glanced around and asked if their teacher and Jiho had arrived or not. Emma nodded, her expression shifting slightly. "Sir's already here; he got a call just as Mom and I arrived."

Jieun nodded in understanding. "I see..." 

At that moment, Jiho walked into view, and Jieun's eyes brightened. "Oh, Emma, look, there's Jiho!" she said, pointing.

Emma turned to see Jiho approaching. Since the incident at the game zone, something had shifted within her. She tried to shrug off the lingering thoughts, but the truth was undeniable—he had affected her more than she wanted to admit.

As Jiho drew nearer, Emma found herself momentarily mesmerized by him, her heart giving an unexpected flutter. She tried to push the feeling aside, but her mind kept replaying the memory of that day. Despite her best efforts, the impact of the encounter had left a mark.

At the same time Elina also turned, her gaze assessing him. "Oh, so he's Jiho," she said, her tone curious. Emma's eyes widened slightly at Elina's comment, as she looked at her while Elina chuckled softly and made a gesture for Emma to relax. 

Jieun, noticing the exchange, leaned in and whispered to Emma, "What happened?"

Emma shook her head, "Nothing" she said while Jieun nodded and just then, Jiho arrived and greeted them.