String to my heart ♪ Mark Lee

♪ 41

Stumbling, my mental's halfway out, yeah
They say I was doomed from the start
Like a seven-year-old kid who lost their toy
I cry even in front of my parents, I know it ain't right

♪

Hannah closed the door behind her with a soft click, her heart still racing from the intense moment with Mark despite the fact the others came and it has happened an hour ago.

She leaned against it for a second, taking a deep breath, trying to steady herself. The apartment was quiet, but she knew that wouldn't last long.

As soon as she stepped into the living room, her family and Jihye were waiting, curiosity written all over their faces. Mason, was the first to speak.

"So... how did it go?" His voice was casual, but the anticipation was clear.

Her father and mother, who had rarely shown much interest in her personal life were surprisingly attentive, leaning in slightly.

Parker was sitting cross-legged on the floor, his eyes wide with interest. And Jihye was practically bouncing in her seat, unable to contain her excitement.

Hannah sighed, rubbing her temples as she sat down on the couch.
"It was... intense," she started, unsure how to break the news.

She glanced at Jihye, who was already frowning, sensing something was off.

"What do you mean 'intense'?" Jihye asked, her voice tinged with concern.

Hannah bit her lip, trying to find the right words.

"We talked a lot. About everything, our feelings, the past, the future... And well, we both admitted how much we like each other, but..." She trailed off, seeing the expectant looks on their faces.

"But?" Mason echoed, leaning forward.

"But we didn't accept each other as boyfriend and girlfriend." Hannah finally said, her voice quieter.

The room fell silent.

Jihye's face fell, her excitement dimming into disappointment. Mason let out a heavy sigh, rubbing the back of his neck as he processed the news understanding the situation and the tension they probably had. Their parents exchanged a glance and even Parker, was stunned and looked a little downcast.

"Why?" her mother finally asked, her tone more gentle than Hannah expected.

Hannah shrugged, feeling a mixture of frustration and sadness.

"We just... it's complicated. We're both scared of ruining what we have. And with his career and my work... it didn't feel like the right time to dive into something so serious."

Jihye sighed dramatically, flopping back onto the couch.
"But you guys have been dancing around each other for ages! I thought this was finally it. Like bruH I didn't sign to go out for this. "

Mason nodded in agreement.
"I get it though. It's not easy, especially with all the pressure you both are under. But it's still disappointing."

Hannah gave a small, sad smile.
"Yeah, it is. But we both agreed it's for the best. At least for now."

Her father cleared his throat, his expression softening.
"You're both young. There's time to figure things out. It's important you both feel ready."

Her mother nodded, reaching out to squeeze Hannah's hand.
"We just want you to be happy, Hannah."

Hannah felt a lump in her throat, touched by their support.
"I know. And maybe someday, we'll be ready. But for now... we're just taking it slow."