Unbinding Tradition

91. Interview 😟

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The car rattled over the uneven roads as they entered the heart of the city. The streets were busier than what Jiminee and Hyunnie were used to—men in crisp kurtas and trousers walked briskly, women draped in elegant sarees balanced baskets on their heads, and children in neatly pressed uniforms rushed past, their schoolbags bouncing against their backs.

Hyunnie, with his round eyes full of curiosity, pressed his face against the window. Every now and then, he gasped dramatically, pointing at something new—tall buildings, shiny cars, street vendors selling colorful toys.

Hyun- Amma, Amma! Look! That man sellin’ chhoti-chhoti car! Me wanna car! (he tugged at Tae’s lehenga with his small hands, bouncing in his seat)

Tae smiled, smoothing down his hair.

Tae- We will see, Hyunnie. First, let’s reach the hotel, hmm?

Jiminee, on the other hand, remained quiet. Her hands clutched the fabric of her simple blue dress as she stared outside. The city wasn’t just new—it was overwhelming.

Unlike the quiet streets of their village, everything here moved fast. Her heart pounded when she thought about tomorrow—her interview, her entrance test, the reality of living here alone.

Tae noticed the hesitation in her niece’s eyes. She reached over, placing her plam on her shoulder, squeezing gently.

Tae- Nervous? (she asked softly)

Jiminee bit her lip and nodded.

Tae smiled reassuringly.

Tae- You’ll do just fine. And remember, this is just the beginning. You’re meant for bigger things, Jiminee.

Jiminee inhaled deeply and nodded, trying to believe her words.

Meanwhile, Hyunnie had already lost interest in their conversation. He turned to Jungkook, who was focused on the road.

Hyun- Baba! Baba! (he called loudly, making Jungkook glance at him through the mirror)

Jk- What now? (he asked, already tired of his endless chatter)

Hyun- Me wanna big big city house! Like dat one! (he pointed at a grand white building they passed)

Jungkook shook his head, amused.

Jk- Earn one yourself when you grow up.

Hyunnie gasped, placing a hand on his tiny chest dramatically.

Hyun- Baba mean! Amma, Baba mean! (he tattled instantly, making Tae chuckle)

Before Jungkook could respond, the car pulled up in front of their hotel.

The hotel was a familiar sight to Tae and Jungkook. They had stayed here multiple times whenever Tae had exams. But for Hyunnie and Jiminee, it was an entirely new experience.

As soon as they stepped out of the car, Hyunnie clapped his hands in excitement, running in circles around Tae.

Hyun- So big! Amma, Amma, me wanna stay here forever! (he chirped)

Tae held onto his wrist before he ran too far. She noticed Jiminee’s hesitation as she took in the grand entrance, her grip tightening on her small cloth bag.

Tae- Come on. (she said, leading her gently inside)

Meanwhile, Hyunnie had already sprinted ahead, chasing after Jungkook.

Inside, Jungkook went straight to the reception.

Jk- Jeon Jungkook. We have a reservation.

The receptionist, a man in a neatly pressed uniform, nodded and handed over a key.