Kang Min Jun stood frozen in the hallway, his parents' words echoing in his mind: "When will the engagement party be?" The question lingered in the air like a storm cloud, heavy with expectation and disappointment.
He felt suffocated, the walls of his childhood home closing in around him. His father's stern gaze and his mother's hopeful eyes bore into him, making it clear they would not accept any answer that didn't align with their wishes. Yet, Min Jun's heart was far from Ji-Eun, and his mind was consumed with thoughts of Soo Jeon.
Taking a deep breath, Min Jun finally spoke, his voice steady but firm. "There won't be an engagement party," he declared, the words leaving his lips with finality. "I'm not going to marry Ji-Eun."
His mother's face fell, shock and disbelief replacing the gentle smile she had worn moments before. "Min Jun," she began, her voice trembling, "you don't know what you're saying. Ji-Eun is perfect for you. She's from a good family, well-educated, and she cares for you."
Min Jun shook his head, his resolve hardening. "That may be true, but my heart belongs to someone else. I can't marry Ji-Eun when I'm in love with Soo Jeon. It wouldn't be fair to anyone."
His father's expression darkened, the air between them growing thick with tension. "This is not just about you, Min Jun. It's about our family's reputation, our legacy. You have responsibilities."
"I know my responsibilities, Father," Min Jun responded, his voice laced with a mix of defiance and hurt. "But I also have the right to choose my own happiness. I can't live a lie just to fulfill expectations. I want to build a life with Soo Jeon, someone who truly understands and loves me for who I am."
His mother took a step closer, her eyes pleading. "But Ji-Eun loves you, Min Jun. She's been there for you through so much. Don't you think you owe her a chance?"
Min Jun's heart ached at his mother's words, but he stood his ground. "I'm grateful for everything Ji-Eun has done, but I can't be with someone just out of obligation. I'm sorry, but I've made my decision."
There was a long silence, the weight of his words settling over the room like a thick blanket. His parents exchanged a look, one filled with unspoken frustration and concern. Finally, his father spoke, his tone colder than before. "If you choose to go against us in this, Min Jun, there will be consequences. Think carefully about what you're willing to lose."
Min Jun's stomach churned, but he refused to back down. He knew this wouldn't be easy, but he couldn't sacrifice his love for Soo Jeon, no matter the cost. "I understand," he replied quietly, his voice resolute. "But I can't turn my back on Soo Jeon. I'm willing to face whatever comes."
His mother sighed deeply, tears glistening in her eyes. "Min Jun, we only want what's best for you. I hope one day you'll understand that."
"I know you do, Mom," Min Jun whispered, his heart heavy with the weight of his decision. "But this is what I need to do."
Without another word, he turned and walked out of the house, the door closing softly behind him. The cool evening air hit his face as he stepped outside, but the tension in his chest didn't ease. He knew he had just set himself on a difficult path, but as long as Soo Jeon was by his side, he believed he could weather any storm.