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ׂ╰┈➤ Chapter 21 | A Glimpse into the Past
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The week flew by, and the excitement for the festival continued to build. The school grounds were abuzz with activity as students prepared for the big event. Amidst the hustle and bustle, Jiwon found herself reflecting on the past, especially during quiet moments. One particular evening, she and Yeonjun decided to take a walk around the park near her house, a serene break from their busy schedules
The park was quiet, with only the soft rustling of leaves and the distant sound of children playing. Jiwon and Yeonjun strolled along the path, enjoying the calmness after the recent flurry of activity. Yeonjun had been a supportive friend throughout the week, always ready with a smile and a kind word
As they reached a secluded bench under a large oak tree, Jiwon sat down and patted the spot next to her, inviting Yeonjun to join her. He sat down beside her, sensing that something was on her mind
“Everything okay, Hyein?”
Yeonjun asked, his voice gentle
Jiwon took a deep breath, her gaze fixed on the horizon
“Yeah, it’s just... I’ve been thinking a lot lately. About the past”
Yeonjun turned to face her, his expression attentive
“Do you want to talk about it?”
Jiwon nodded, her mind drifting back to a time long before the excitement of festivals and group chats
“When I was younger, things weren’t always easy. My family had financial struggles, and it was tough. I remember one year, we couldn’t afford to go on the class trip or buy new school supplies. I felt so out of place compared to the other kids”
She paused, a wistful smile touching her lips
“But I found solace in ballet and playing the guitar. Those were my escapes. Whenever I danced or played music, I felt like I could forget about everything else”
Yeonjun listened intently, his heart going out to her
“That sounds really challenging. But it’s amazing how you found your way through it”
Jiwon nodded, her eyes glistening slightly
“It was tough, but it also made me appreciate the small things more. I worked hard to get better at ballet and guitar, and it gave me a sense of purpose. My friends Minji, Hanni, Haerin, and Danielle were always there for me too. They’re like family to me now”
Yeonjun reached out, placing a comforting hand on hers
“You’ve come a long way, Jiwon. And I’m glad you have friends who support you. It’s clear you’ve turned those tough experiences into something positive”
Jiwon squeezed his hand gently, grateful for his understanding
“Thank you, Yeonjun. It means a lot to have someone who listens”
They sat in silence for a moment, the gentle breeze rustling through the trees. Yeonjun broke the silence with a soft smile
“I’m really glad we got to hang out today. It’s nice to have these moments where we can just talk and be ourselves”
Jiwon smiled back, feeling a warm sense of connection
“Me too. It’s been great spending time with you and your friends. I feel like I’m getting to know you better”
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the park, Jiwon and Yeonjun remained on the bench, talking about their dreams and aspirations. The conversation flowed easily, with each of them opening up more about their hopes for the future
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By the time they stood up to leave, the park was bathed in the soft light of twilight. Jiwon felt a renewed sense of hope and comfort, grateful for the support and understanding she had found in Yeonjun
“Thanks for being here, Yeonjun”
she said as they walked back towards her house
“No problem”
Yeonjun replied, giving her a reassuring smile
“Anytime”
As they parted ways, Jiwon felt a deep sense of appreciation for the connection they shared. The evening had been a reminder that even in the midst of busy schedules and festival preparations, there was always time for meaningful conversations and genuine connections
