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HOPE AND FEAR
Ever since Jeongguk's departure, Lisa found herself longing for ways to feel connected to him despite the distance.
Every week, she set aside a quiet evening to write him a letter.
Sitting at her desk, the warm glow of the lamp lighting up the paper, she poured her heart out in each letter, sharing everything from the little moments of her day to her deepest feelings.
She wrote about the mundane details of her life---how the leaves were changing colours, how Mrs Lee had made his favourite dish, and how she missed his presence in their home.
But she also wrote about her hopes and dreams, her thoughts about their future, and how much she looked forward to the day he would return.
Once she finished writing, she carefully folded the letter, sealed it, and placed it in a small wooden box on her desk, ready to be sent the next day.
Each Sunday, she would take the walk to the post office, her heart lightened by the thought of Jeongguk reading her words, imagining his smile as he opened the envelope.
These letters became a way to keep him close even when they were far apart.
Monday, December 29th, 1980
The sun was just beginning to rise on the last day of 1980, casting a soft golden light over the quiet streets of the city.
Lisa and Mrs. Lee were already out and about, making their way through the bustling marketplace.
Lisa had taken the day off from work, determined to spend it preparing a special meal with Mrs. Lee.
They planned to host her family that evening to ring in the New Year together.
As they walked through the busy aisles, their cart filled up with ingredients.
After gathering everything they needed, they headed back to Lisa's home.
The house was already beautifully organized, packed with new furniture and decorations Lisa had recently purchased. The space felt warm and inviting, perfect for a family celebration.
In the kitchen, the two women worked side by side, enjoying the rhythm of chopping, stirring, and seasoning.
The aroma of spices and freshly prepared ingredients filled the air.
As Lisa was slicing vegetables, she suddenly felt nausea wash over her. She paused, her hand instinctively moving to her stomach as she tried to steady herself.
Mrs Lee, noticing the change in her demeanour, looked over with concern.
"Lisa, are you alright?" Mrs Lee asked, her brow furrowing.
Lisa nodded quickly, not wanting to worry about her. "I'm fine. Just... I think I need a moment." Without another word, she quickly made her way to the bathroom.
