Min Jun and Soo Jeon returned to Seoul feeling lighter, the weight of their troubles momentarily lifted by the serenity of their weekend getaway. The coastal town they visited offered a quiet respite from the noise of their everyday lives, and as they strolled along the beach, hand in hand, they found solace in each other's company.
"We needed that," Soo Jeon said softly as they entered Min Jun's apartment, setting their bags down by the door. "It felt good to just be… us, without all the drama."
Min Jun nodded, pulling her into a gentle embrace. "I agree. It reminded me why we're fighting so hard for this. For us."
They spent the next hour unpacking and catching up on messages. Min Jun's expression turned serious as he checked his calendar. "I've been thinking… I need to talk to my parents. Really talk to them. It's time they understand that this is not just a phase or something they can control."
.. Soo Jeon looked up, concern flickering in her eyes. "Are you sure? I don't want you to feel like you have to choose between me and your family."
Min Jun crossed the room and took her hands in his. "I'm not choosing between you and my family. I'm choosing to set boundaries. They need to know that I'm serious about you, about us, and that they can't keep pushing you away."
Soo Jeon squeezed his hands, her expression softening. "If you think it's the right thing to do, then I support you. But… maybe you should go alone. I don't want things to get too heated if I'm there."
Min Jun nodded, appreciating her thoughtfulness. "I think you're right. I'll handle it. And no matter how it goes, I'll always have your back."
Later that afternoon, Min Jun found himself standing at the front door of his parents' house. He took a deep breath, steeling himself for the conversation ahead. Mr. Kang greeted him with a warm smile, but Mrs. Kang's expression was guarded, her eyes narrowing slightly as she ushered him inside.
"Min Jun, it's been a while," Mr. Kang said, patting his son on the back. "How have you been?"
"I've been fine, Dad," Min Jun replied, his tone respectful yet firm. "But there are some things we need to talk about."
As they sat down in the living room, Min Jun didn't waste time getting to the point. He spoke clearly and confidently, explaining how much Soo Jeon meant to him and how her presence in his life had been a source of strength and happiness. He acknowledged the tension between them and his parents, but he also made it clear that he expected their respect for his choices.
"I know you have concerns," Min Jun said, looking directly at his mother. "But Soo Jeon is not someone you need to worry about. She's not trying to take me away from you, and she's not manipulating me. She's just… someone I love. And I need you to respect that."
Mr. Kang listened intently, nodding along. "I can see how much she means to you, Min Jun. And if she makes you happy, then that's what matters."
Mrs. Kang remained quiet, her expression unreadable. Finally, she spoke, her voice tinged with a mix of reluctance and concern. "Min Jun, I just want what's best for you. And I hope that in time, Soo Jeon can prove to be what you truly need."
It wasn't a full endorsement, but it was a step forward. Min Jun took it as a small victory, knowing that change wouldn't happen overnight.
Meanwhile, Soo Jeon was at her ballet studio, preparing for an important performance that would showcase her dedication and passion for dance. She had poured her heart into every rehearsal, using the stage as her sanctuary amidst the personal battles she faced.
Min Jun had promised to be there, no matter what, and he intended to keep that promise. As the day of the performance approached, he decided to extend an olive branch to his parents, inviting them to see Soo Jeon perform.
To his surprise, Mr. Kang agreed readily, intrigued by the opportunity to see the woman his son was so devoted to. Mrs. Kang hesitated, but ultimately decided to accompany her husband, curious despite her reservations.
The night of the performance, the auditorium buzzed with anticipation. Min Jun sat with his parents in the audience, his heart swelling with pride as Soo Jeon took the stage. She moved with a grace and confidence that captivated everyone, her every step a testament to her strength and artistry.
Mrs. Kang watched closely, her critical eye softened by the undeniable talent before her. As Soo Jeon leaped and spun across the stage, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of admiration. The performance ended with a standing ovation, and Min Jun's applause was the loudest of all.
Backstage, Min Jun introduced Soo Jeon to his parents, hoping the personal connection would ease the lingering tension. Mr. Kang extended a hand, offering Soo Jeon a warm smile. "You were incredible out there. I can see why Min Jun is so proud of you."
Soo Jeon blushed, bowing respectfully. "Thank you, Mr. Kang. It means a lot to have your support."
Mrs. Kang, though still reserved, gave a polite nod. "You dance beautifully. I hope… I hope we can get to know each other better."
It wasn't an embrace, but it was a start. Min Jun and Soo Jeon exchanged hopeful glances, recognizing that while they still had a long road ahead, they were moving in the right direction.
As they left the auditorium, Min Jun took Soo Jeon's hand, squeezing it gently. "One step at a time," he whispered.
Soo Jeon smiled, feeling a spark of optimism. "One step at a time."
Together, they walked into the night, ready to face whatever came next with unshakable determination.