On a typical Monday morning, Min-jun made his way to the university, ready to attend his classes. In the confines of his department, he shone as one of the top students, earning compliments from all his professors for his exceptional work. However, beneath the veneer of academic success, he grappled with a pressing issue, the administration's persistent reminders about his overdue tuition payments.
Min-jun's financial struggles had caused him to delay payments, but the university's dean had always been understanding, recognizing Min-jun's dedication and character. The dean had extended deadlines in the past, giving him additional time to settle his dues. However, as the unpaid semesters accumulated to three, even the dean's patience wore thin.
One fateful day, the dean summoned Min-jun to his office, where they had a sobering conversation. The dean granted Min-jun a mere month to come up with nearly 20 million won, the accumulated unpaid university fees.
At that moment, Min-jun found himself unable to enter the next class. For the first time in years, he couldn't hold back his tears, and it felt as if the world were spinning around him. As he stood in the bustling university courtyard, the cacophony of students rushing by echoed in his ears.
Seeking solace from the chaos, Min-jun wandered towards a hidden corner of the campus. He stumbled upon a serene garden, a well-kept secret among the students. Lush greenery surrounded a tranquil pond where koi fish glided beneath lily pads. A stone bench nestled beneath the shade of a centuries-old oak tree invited him to sit and reflect.
Here, in this pocket of tranquility, with the gentle rustling of leaves and the soft gurgle of the pond, Min-jun found the clarity he sought. Through careful calculation and contemplation, he realized he could save nearly 500,000 won by finding more affordable housing while increasing his working hours. This strategy would allow him to set aside at least 700,000 won each day so that, by month's end, he could accumulate enough funds to pay off his university debts.
While he was meditating there, a close friend of his, Soo-yeon, whom he considered his best friend, spotted Min-jun sitting alone. Concerned, she approached Min-jun and inquired why he hadn't attended class. The professors had been searching for him, thinking he might be ill or facing some issue.
Min-jun turned to Soo-yeon with a smile, though his eyes appeared slightly red from crying, and explained that something unexpected had come up. Soo-yeon sensed that something was amiss and asked Min-jun what was troubling him, reassuring him that he could talk about it.
With sincerity, Min-jun shared his thoughts and worries, letting Soo-yeon in on his current predicament. Soo-yeon could only think of one immediate solution to speak with her own parents about the situation. Perhaps they could offer Min-jun a temporary place to stay while he searched for a more affordable apartment. Furthermore, Soo-yeon offered to assist in the apartment hunt.
Upon hearing this, Min-jun's smile widened, and he expressed his gratitude for the thoughtful offer. However, he hesitated, not wanting to burden Soo-yeon's parents. Nevertheless, he cherished the comfort and support he received from his friend during this tiring time.
As the day wore on, Min-jun couldn't escape the pressing reality of his part-time jobs. He had three different jobs, each demanding his time and energy, and all of them were essential to make ends meet. However, it was during his evening shift at a local convenience store that a sudden and unexpected turn of events occurred.
Min-jun was diligently attending to his duties behind the cash register, scanning items for customers and maintaining the neatness of the store. It was a job he had held for years, and the routine was comforting. But on that fateful evening, his supervisor called him into the small office at the back of the store.
With a stern expression, the supervisor delivered the news that sent shockwaves through Min-jun's world—he was being let go. The reasons given were vague, something about "restructuring" and "cost-cutting measures," but the impact was clear. Min-jun was now faced with the harsh reality of unemployment.
The weight of the situation bore down on him as he left the convenience store, the automatic doors closing behind him. He knew that losing one of his part-time jobs meant a significant reduction in his income, and it threatened to derail his carefully calculated plan to pay off his university debts.
As he walked the dimly lit streets of Seoul, his thoughts were a whirlwind of anxiety and uncertainty. Finding another part-time job to replace the one he had lost was now an urgent necessity. The hours he would need to devote to this search were hours he couldn't afford to spare.
Min-jun's mind raced, considering the options and opportunities available to him. He had always been resourceful, and he knew that he had to act swiftly to secure another source of income. With Soo-yeon's support, he was determined to navigate this unexpected twist in his already challenging life.
As the evening grew darker, Soo-yeon, concerned about Min-jun, decided to pay him a visit at the convenience store. She had hoped to find him there and offer her support in person. However, when she arrived at the store, she was met with disappointment. Min-jun was nowhere to be seen, and his absence only deepened her worry.
Realizing that something was amiss, Soo-yeon tried calling Min-jun's phone repeatedly, but he didn't answer. Fearing the worst, she decided to make her way to his small apartment. With each step, her concern mounted, and the weight of uncertainty pressed upon her.
Upon reaching Min-jun's apartment, she hesitated briefly before knocking gently. When there was no response, she let herself in with the spare key he had entrusted to her long ago. What she found inside was both troubling and heartbreaking.
Min-jun was seated in front of his computer, lost in the virtual world of 'Timeless Alchemy' His face, normally full of life, now wore a mask of sadness and frustration. His fingers moved deftly across the keyboard, navigating through the game's challenges. Yet, it was evident that the real battle was taking place within him.
Soo-yeon approached her friend cautiously, not wanting to startle him. She placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, and when he turned to look at her, the sadness and anger in his eyes were impossible to ignore. It was as if the game had become his refuge, a place where he could momentarily escape the harsh realities of his life.
"Min-jun," Soo-yeon said softly, "I've been worried about you. What's going on?"
Min-jun blinked, seemingly unaware of his surroundings for a moment. Slowly, he removed his headphones and met Soo-yeon's gaze. The weight of his recent job loss and financial struggles hung heavily between them, and he knew he couldn't hide the truth from his caring friend any longer.
With a heavy sigh, he began to share the events of the day, including the unexpected loss of his part-time job at the convenience store. Soo-yeon listened attentively, her concern deepening as she realized the extent of Min-jun's turmoil.
Together, in the dimly lit apartment, they faced the challenges that lay ahead. It was a moment that would test the strength of their friendship and their ability to overcome adversity.
As Soo-yeon listened to Min-jun's troubles, her heart ached for her dear friend. She knew she had to do something to help him through this challenging time. After their conversation, she decided to make a call to her parents, her father in particular. She explained Min-jun's situation in detail, emphasizing the urgency and the mounting financial burden he faced.
Soo-yeon's father, a kind and compassionate man, listened carefully to his daughter's plea. After a moment of thoughtful consideration, he spoke with a warmth in his voice, "Tell Min-jun that he doesn't have to worry anymore. I have a job for him at my small business, and I'll pay him a monthly salary of 1.2 million won."
When Soo-yeon hung up the phone and relayed the news to Min-jun, he was overcome with emotions. It felt as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders, and the burden of financial uncertainty was finally beginning to ease. He couldn't contain his joy and gratitude.
In a spontaneous display of happiness, Min-jun wrapped his arms around Soo-yeon in a tight embrace. She blushed at the unexpected gesture but felt a warmth in her heart, knowing that her efforts had made a significant difference in her friend's life.
Tears welled up in Min-jun's eyes as he thanked her profusely. It wasn't just the job offer; it was the unwavering support and kindness that Soo-yeon and her family had extended to him during his darkest hours. It was a moment of deep connection and gratitude, a testament to the strength of their friendship.
The next morning, Min-jun prepared for his new job, a sense of hope and anticipation filling him. He dressed in his best attire and made his way to the small business owned by Soo-yeon's father. As he entered the premises, he was greeted by a warm smile from his new employer, Mr. Kim.
"Min-jun, welcome!" Mr. Kim said with genuine enthusiasm. "I'm delighted to have you join us. We've heard great things about your dedication and work ethic."
Min-jun beamed with gratitude as he extended his hand. "Thank you so much for this opportunity, Mr. Kim. Your offer means the world to me."
As the workday began, Min-jun quickly adapted to his new role. The tasks were challenging, but he tackled them with determination, eager to prove himself in his newfound employment.
During a break, Mr. Kim approached Min-jun and struck up a conversation. He spoke about his business, his plans for growth, and his appreciation for Min-jun's commitment to hard work.
Min-jun couldn't help but express his gratitude once more. "I can't thank you enough, Mr. Kim. This job is a lifeline for me."
Mr. Kim's smile held a hint of nostalgia as he looked at Min-jun. "You know, Min-jun, you're not just a new employee. You're like family to us. Your late father and I were best friends. We grew up together, shared dreams and aspirations. Your father was like a brother to me. When he and your mother passed away, it was a devastating loss for me."
Min-jun nodded, his heart heavy with the memories of his parents. "I always knew that my parents had cherished friendships, but I didn't realize the depth of their connection with you."
Mr. Kim's expression turned solemn as he continued, "I had promised your parents that I would always look out for you. They were not only dear friends but also wonderful people. And now, with this job and our continued support, I hope to fulfill that promise."
Min-jun's eyes glistened with gratitude and understanding. The day had brought not only a new job but also the rekindling of a heartfelt connection between himself, Soo-yeon's family, and the cherished memory of his own parents. It was a day of new beginnings, profound gratitude, and the assurance that he was not alone in facing life's challenges, in the real world.