Today, Two Years Ago

For you

My eyes glued on the screen of my phone.

The rain hasn't stopped yet and it continues to downpour, hitting the car's roof and windows. For the whole ride, all I hear is the sound of the soft music playing through the radio mixed with the sound of the rain. It's just simply soothing.

Just then, the blaring ringtone of my phone, vibrating erratically interrupts my thoughts. I read the caller's name before pressing the green button to put the phone beside my ear.

"Yes, mom?"

"Hyeju, it's almost night. Where are you right now?" She asks with so much seriousness in her voice.

"I know, mom. I just done my..." I eye Sungjin out of the corner of my eye. "...extra class. I'm on my way to home now."

"Please, be hurry. Your dad wants to talk to you and we've decided to cancel your flight."

My face brightens up hearing her words. "Really?" This time, Sungjin is the one looking at me.

"Yes...come home quickly, Hyeju."

"Okay, mom. Bye bye. Love you." I hang up the phone.

I press my lips into a thin line, trying not to smile. Knowing how strict they are, I definitely didn't expect that to happen.

As soon as the car stops in front of my house, I turn to look at him. "Thanks for the lift, mister!" I unbuckle my seatbelt and hold onto the car door handle.

"You know how to run, right?" Sungjin asks as its still raining.

"Duh." I roll my eyes. "I'm going then. Bye." Pulling the handle, I hop out of the car and run as quick as possible towards the door as the thick water drops hitting my head. I knock the door as I reach in front of it and that's when I hear the sound of Sungjin's car driving away.

The moment I step inside the house, my mom approaches me and tells me to wash myself first (she notices how soaking wet my hair is) and I nod before climbing up the stairs.

Ten minutes later, I'm done cleaning myself so I sit in the living room and stare silently at the TV screen. I can't help but feel uneasy. Nervous, to be exact. However, I need to brush those heavy thoughts away and just hope my parents won't make it too hard for me.

My mom comes and sits next to me while my dad is in front. It seems like they just discussed something, judging by the atmosphere and their faces. My fingers drumming impatiently in my lap, waiting for them to utter something.

"Hyeju, as you know, you won't be going to America," my mom starts speaking first. "The reason why we cancelled your flight is because we think it's better for you to graduate here and it's also your last year."

My dad nods in agreement. "And we want you to continue your treatment here but more often, thrice a week."

"Sure thing," I answer. I really don't mind that at all.

"Great." My dad smiles gently.

...

A month later.

Days passed by quickly than I thought. At first, I couldn't imagine myself studying for two hours straight but it's different now. Not to forget, I also have to attend my extra class four times a week. I don't think my old self could do those easily.

My treatment schedule going well too. I never missed any of it and I feel contented after what the doctor said yesterday; my health is getting better and better.