"What am I supposed to do...?, she doesn't like me then, who cares." She said, staring at the mirror, engaged in a monologue, applying the aloe Vera gel on her face.
It's weekend, which marked her 4th week of their stay in Korea. She's still not getting used to everything and everyone especially Da-Eun, she's proofing abortive just like the chopstick she's finding difficult to learn how to use, and of course how could she still forget the fact that Baek Hyeon is still a stranger to her, not after what she did on their meeting in the grocery store.
"I'm bored." She complained to herself, resting her hand on her chin.
"Any idea on what to do?"
"Are you okay?" Ann asked, making Alex jerk in fear.
"Seriously Mum!... When did you start sneaking on me. Can't I at least have some privacy." She yells.
"Alex darling, I didn't mean to startle you." She said, striding towards her.
"I heard you talking to yourself, so, I decided to check up on you." She added, stoking her hair gently, subjecting her to relax a little bit.
"I was actually on the phone." Alex lied, biting her lower lips as her gaze met with her mum's.
"Why that look?" Ann asked.
"Can I take a walk round the neighborhood?" Alex asked, gazing at her mum reflection expectantly.
"Of course you can... Have you spoken to Chloe lately?" Ann said as she sighted the ribbon Chloe gifted her on the table.
"No mum." Alex replied, mood off as she stood up walking to the bed.
"Why?" Ann asked overwhelmed.
"I don't know, anytime I called, she keeps saying she's busy and so on, making meaningless excuses." She completed breathing heavily.
"Have you calm down?" Ann asked folding her ems across her chest.
"Yeah." Alex replied.
"Why do you choose to keep on lying Alex." Ann accused.
"What do you mean mum." Alex asked roling her eyes in confusion.
"Those were actually your excuses whenever she calls, she tells me everything, asking me if you're always busy. Have you made a lot of friends that you suddenly forget Chloe." Ann quarreled.
"Oh please. I didn't forget her. She's my friend, and you know she'll always be." Alex quoted.
"So. Why the avoidance?" She asked.
Heaving a long sigh, she started.
"I just want to leave some memories behind you know, and just focus on now." She complained.
"You don't have to Alex... She won't like to hear what you just said, either will I lecture you more on this. So call her now and apologize." Ann said.
Ann's gentle touch and soothing words calm Alex down, and she begins to open up about her frustrations. "Mum, I just feel so lost here. I don't fit in, and everyone seems to be staring at me. Even Da-Eun doesn't like me, and Baek Hyeon... ugh, don't even get me started."
Ann listens attentively, nodding her head. "Alex, sweetie, it's normal to feel this way in a new environment. It takes time to adjust. Why don't we explore the city together this weekend? We can try some new foods, visit some landmarks, and maybe even find a new hobby for you?"
Alex's face brightens slightly at the suggestion. "Really, Mum? You'd do that with me?"
Ann smiles. "Of course, darling! We'll make it a mother-daughter adventure!"
As they hug, Alex feels a sense of relief wash over her. Maybe, just maybe, this stay in Korea won't be so bad after all.
"I will do that later..."
"Now." Ann interrupted, and without hearing anymore excuse from her daughter stormed out of the room.
"Oh Lord... What can I tell her that might sound convincing?" She thought as she stared at the Chloe phone in her mobile.
"Hey Alex." She heard Chloe voice in the other end of the call.
"Erhmm... How are you doing Chloe?" She asked, voice suddenly breaking, as she tried hard to hold back her emotion.
"Aren't you busy today as usual?" She asked.
"Yeah, and I'm sorry for that." Alex replied.
"I don't see any reasons you should be." She said.
There was a dead silence between the two on the phone.
"What's your plan for today?" Chloe spoke up.
"Mum requested we go on a mum and daughter tour, I'm really looking forward to it." Alex squeal in excitement.
"Having fun without me?" Chloe asked.
"Not at all... You should come for a visit somedays, what did you say?" Alex asked.
"I'm not sure about that. I'll ask Dad if possibly I can." Chloe replied.
"Chat you later then." Alex replied.
"Have fun without me!" Chloe replied as she hung up.
Alex heaved a sigh of relief, as if a burden have been lifted from her shoulder.
* * *
The next day, Ann and Alex set out on their adventure, determined to explore every nook and cranny of the city. They started at the famous Gyeongbokgung Palace, marveling at the stunning architecture and learning about Korea's rich history.
As they strolled through the palace grounds, Alex spotted a group of people gathered around a street performer. She tugged on Ann's hand, excitedly pointing out the musician playing a traditional Korean instrument.
Ann smiled and led Alex closer to the performance. The musician, noticing their interest, began to play a lively tune, and Alex found herself clapping along with the crowd.
After the performance, Alex and her mum strolled down to an Ice cream counter to get one of Alex favorite flavor.
"Two cone of chocolate ice cream." Alex requested as the seller hands them what they requested for. They settled down on a street bench, close by as they nip at their ice cream, enjoying every bit of the silence. The entertainer from the earlier performance approached them.
"Hey." He greeted waving slightly.
"Hi." Alex and Ann replied.
"If I'm not mistaken, you're the musician we met earlier." Alex asked.
"Yes." He replied while Alex beckons on him to sit beside her.
"You play really well, I must confess." She added with a smile.
"Thank you. I'm Min-Soo" He replied.
"Alex, and here is my mum." She replied extending her hand for a handshake which he took.
"Hi Mam." He greeted releasing Alex hand.
Min-Soo is a slender and agile young man in his early twenties, with a height of around 5'9". He has a lean build, with broad shoulders and a kind face. His hair is dark brown, styled in a messy yet charming way, often falling across his forehead. His eyes are a deep, warm brown that sparkle with kindness and intelligence. He has a small nose and a gentle smile that makes you feel at ease.
Min-Soo's style is effortlessly cool and laid-back, dressed in comfortable jeans, black shirt, and a black leather jacket. His shoes were black sleek sneakers that complement his relaxed yet stylish look.
"Hi." Ann replied.
There was an awkward silence between the two, which Ann who was listening without interrupting suddenly burst out.
"Will you mind teaching her how to play the flute?" Ann requested.
"Mum." Alex whispered embarrassed.
"I'm willing to." He offered surprising Alex as he brought out his flute while Ann encouraged her to give it a try.
As Alex hesitantly accepted the offer, Min-Soo handed her the instrument and began to guide her fingers. At first, the sounds that came out were awkward and discordant, but with each passing minute, Alex grew more confident.
Min-Soo cheered her on, and Ann beamed with pride. "You're a natural, Alex!"
As they continued their adventure, Alex began to feel a sense of belonging in this new city. Maybe, just maybe, she could find her place here after all.
As the sun began to set, Ann and Alex made their way to the Myeong-dong shopping district, eager to try some street food and browse the local vendors. The air was filled with the savory aromas of Korean BBQ and the sound of sizzling meat.
Alex's eyes widened as they walked through the bustling streets, taking in the colorful displays of clothes, accessories, and souvenirs. Ann laughed at her daughter's excitement, happy to see her enjoying herself.
As they stopped at a street food stall, Alex hesitated, unsure of what to try. Ann encouraged her to be adventurous.
"I suggest you try the spicy rice cake." Min-Soo, who had joined them, recommended the spicy rice cakes seeing her reluctancy.
"I'll try. You won't suggest something worthless, would you?" Alex replied.
"I don't think so." Min-Soo replied handing over the rice cake.
Alex took a tentative bite, and her eyes lit up. "Wow, this is amazing!"
Ann smiled, pleased that Alex was stepping out of her comfort zone. "See, I told you it would be good!"
As they continued their culinary adventure, Alex began to feel a sense of belonging in this new city. She was starting to connect with the people, the culture, and the food.
Just then, Min-Soo received a text message and excused himself. "I have to go, but I'll meet you both later at the N Seoul Tower. Let's watch the sunset together!"
Ann and Alex agreed, and Min-Soo hurried off. As they continued shopping, Alex turned to Ann with a curious expression.
"Mum, do you think Min-Soo could be a new friend for me?"
"You already have Ja-Young and Ha-Eun."
"I mean, someone with an opposite sex." Alex said.
Ann smiled, her heart warming at the thought. "I think that's a wonderful idea, sweetie. Let's make the most of our time here and embrace new experiences and friendships!"
As they arrived at the N Seoul Tower, Min-Soo was already there, waiting for them with a big smile.
"Hey, guys! Perfect timing. The sunset is about to start."
Alex's eyes widened as they walked towards the tower's viewing deck. The sky was painted with hues of pink, orange, and purple, a breathtaking sight.
Alex leaned into her mom's embrace, feeling grateful for this experience. "Thanks, Mum. I'm so happy we're here together."
"You know, this tower has a special significance in Korean culture. It's not just a observation deck, but also a symbol of love and freedom. In the 1980s, during the military regime, this tower was a secret meeting spot for couples and activists who wanted to escape the oppressive government. They would climb to the top and make wishes, hoping for a brighter future."
"Do you study history?" Alex asked in admiration.
"I know little, I study music."
Min-Soo pauses, gazing out at the city lights.
"Nice." Ann comment taking pictures.
"One legend says that if you make a wish here, it'll come true. But only if you truly believe in it, and if your heart is pure."
Alex's eyes sparkle with excitement. "That's so cool! I want to make a wish!"
"Is your heart pure?" He asked giggling.
"As pure as gold." She replied feeling the heat rising to her cheeks.
Ann smiles, her eyes shining with warmth. "Go ahead, sweetie. Make a wish for yourself, and one for our family."
Min-Soo hands Alex a small piece of paper and a pen. "Write your wishes down, and then we'll attach them to the railing. It's a tradition here."
As Alex writes her wishes, Min-Soo begins to sing a soft, melodic tune in Korean. The song blends with the gentle breeze, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
"Today is a new day, feel with possibilities." She thought as she attached her wish to the railing, while Min-Soon wraps up his song.