our crossed paths | jww.

ten.

It was Jiwoo's day off, a rare break from her hectic schedule at the hospital. Her mother had called earlier in the week, asking Jiwoo to join her for lunch.

The invitation was unusual, but Jiwoo assumed her mother wanted to catch up and maybe discuss the ongoing tension at home. She decided to go, hoping that it would be a simple, quiet meal.

Arriving at the elegant restaurant her mother had chosen, Jiwoo immediately spotted her. But as she approached the table, her steps faltered. Her mother wasn't alone; seated beside her was another woman, dressed impeccably, radiating the same aura of high society that Jiwoo's mother did.

"Jiwoo, over here!" Her mother waved, her voice cheerful, too cheerful.

Jiwoo walked over, forcing a polite smile. "Hello, Mother."

"Jiwoo, this is Mrs. Park," her mother introduced, gesturing to the woman beside her. "She's a dear friend of mine. And her son, Sanghoon, is joining us for lunch."

Jiwoo's smile froze as the realization dawned on her. This wasn't a simple lunch; this was a setup. Her mother was trying to match her with some eligible bachelor without her knowledge or consent.

"Nice to meet you, Mrs. Park," Jiwoo said politely, though her mind was racing.

"Excuse me for a moment, I urgently need to use the restroom."

She quickly made her way to the restroom, her hands trembling slightly as she pulled out her phone. Leaning against the sink, Jiwoo composed a message to her mother.

Jiwoo: Mom, I didn't agree to this. Why would you set me up on a blind date without telling me?

It didn't take long for her mother to reply.

Mother: Jiwoo, you've made it clear that I don't have a say in your career choices anymore. At least let me have some assurance that my daughter will marry well. Is that too much to ask?

Jiwoo stared at the message, frustration and sadness mixing in her chest. She knew her mother meant well in her own way, but this wasn't the life Jiwoo wanted. Taking a deep breath, she typed back.

Jiwoo: I understand you're concerned, but this isn't the way to go about it.

Mother: At least just join this lunch with me and not embarrass me okay? Who knows, you might just end up liking him.

Jiwoo scoffed slightly. Does her mother think that bringing a son of a high socialite to the table would make her immediately fall? Jiwoo was far from materialistic, though-- her suitors from years ago have always been those rich kids.

Jiwoo: Okay. But no more blind dates like these anymore please. Especially on my precious free days.

Jiwoo returned from the restroom, her expression composed as she took her seat at the table. Almost immediately, Mrs. Park leaned in, her voice dripping with concern and curiosity.

"Jiwoo, dear, your mother was just telling me how dedicated you are to your work,"

"But I'm curious, how do you manage everything? Being a doctor must be so demanding. Do you live alone? It must be hard balancing such a career with your personal life."

Jiwoo forced a polite smile. "Yes, it's challenging, but I manage. I do live alone, which makes it easier to focus on my work."

Mrs. Park nodded sympathetically. "Of course. But don't you think it's important to have a balanced life? Social events, family gatherings, and such?"