Today is Eon-jin's graduation day. Early in the morning, she and her mother, Ji-ah, started preparing for this special occasion.
"You look so beautiful, my dear," Ji-ah said happily, her voice tinged with emotion. She couldn't hold back her tears as she watched her daughter, a mix of pride and joy filling her heart.
"Eomma, you're crying again," Eon-jin said as she walked over to her mother, a gentle smile on her lips.
"I'm just so proud of you, my child." Ji-ah replied, wiping her tears.
"You know I wouldn't have been able to do all of this without your support." Eon-jin said, her gratitude evident in her voice.
"Thank you for not giving up on your dreams." Ji-ah responded, her smile glowing with pride.
Once they were done preparing, they headed straight to the Main Auditorium of Yonsei University, where the graduation ceremony was to take place. As they arrived at the auditorium, the excitement in the air was palpable. Students in their caps and gowns were taking photos with their families and chatting eagerly about their plans for the future. Ji-ah adjusted Eon-jin's cap with a proud smile.
"Go find your friends. I'll find my seat with Ji-min eonnie," Ji-ah said, giving her daughter a gentle nudge.
Eon-jin nodded and scanned the crowd. She quickly spotted Hyo-jin waving at her from the other side of the hall.
"Eon-jin! Over here!" Hyo-jin called out, walking toward her with a bright smile.
"Hyo-jin!" Eon-jin greeted as they hugged tightly.
"You look great! Graduation looks good on you," Hyo-jin said, stepping back to admire her cousin.
"Thanks! You look amazing too." Eon-jin replied with a grin.
As they found a quieter spot to chat, Hyo-jin gave her a knowing look. "So, how are things with Tae-woong?"
Eon-jin blinked, surprised by the sudden mention of him. "Tae-woong? Why bring him up?"
"Well, last time we talked, you said he confessed to you. I want updates!" Hyo-jin said, her tone playful but curious.
Eon-jin sighed, a mix of emotions crossing her face. "He did confess, and it was so heartfelt, but... I had to tell him I'm still waiting for someone."
Hyo-jin tilted her head, her expression softening. "You mean him, don't you? Tae-pyung."
"Yes," Eon-jin admitted, fiddling with the ring on her necklace. "It's not fair to accept someone's love when my heart belongs to someone else. Tae-woong understood, though. He was so kind about it."
Hyo-jin nodded, her expression thoughtful. "That sounds like Tae-woong. He's a good guy, Eon-jin. But do you think Tae-pyung is still...?"
Before Eon-jin could respond, their other friends arrived, including Tae-woong, who was carrying bouquets for both Eon-jin and Hyo-jin.
"Congratulations, girls!" Tae-woong greeted them cheerfully, handing them the flowers.
Both Eon-jin and Tae-woong seemed visibly awkward, avoiding eye contact with each other while trying to act normal.
The ceremony officially began, and the crowd hushed as the dean took the stage.
"Good afternoon, everyone. Students, faculty, families, and friends.
Today is a very special day as we celebrate the achievements of the graduating class of Yonsei University. Graduates, this moment is about you and the hard work, dedication, and determination that brought you here.
