In the vibrant streets of a bustling working-class neighborhood in Seoul, there she stood—Ji-hye, a vivacious and spirited young girl, radiating a beacon of light amidst the struggles of everyday life. With her wild and curly hair, contagious laughter, and a fearless spark in her eyes, she effortlessly stood out in the crowd, captivating the attention of all who crossed her path.
Ji-hye was renowned for her larger-than-life personality, her boisterous laughter echoing through the narrow alleyways. Despite her humble upbringing in a modest background, she adamantly refused to let her circumstances define her. She embraced an unwavering belief that life should be embraced to the fullest, regardless of the challenges that may arise.
An intrigued neighbor who is new to the neighborhood known as Miguel approached Ji-hye, unable to resist her magnetic presence. "Pardon me, are you Ji-hye? The one with the fiery spirit and captivating energy?" he inquired, his voice laced with both curiosity and admiration.
Turning her attention towards him, Ji-hye flashed a mischievous smile, her lips dancing with playful charm. "Guilty as charged! That would be me, Ji-hye," she replied, her voice brimming with confidence and a hint of playfulness.
The new neighbor chuckled, clearly captivated by her vibrant energy. "Ah, I can see that you are indeed charged with an infectious spirit," he remarked, his tone filled with appreciation.
“I am Miguel by name” he introduced himself
“As you know, I’m ji-hye the queen of drama, you can also call me the Alpha female” She introduced herself.
Miguel was just smiling all through at Ji-hye's confidence and free spirit.
Ji-hye's eyes twinkled with mischief as she bid him farewell. "Well, Miguel, I must be on my way. My dear mother will be furious if I roam around any longer. She sent me on an errand, and I've been playing around instead," she explained, playfully darting off towards home.
THE KIM'S HOME
Within the modest confines of a Korean household, tension permeated the air as Eun-ji popularly called Mrs Kim, a strong-willed and no-nonsense mother, stood with her arms crossed, an aura of disapproval enveloping her. Her daughter, Ji-hye, had once again arrived home late, pushing Mrs Kim's patience to its limits.
As the front door creaked open, Ji-hye stepped inside, her eyes filled with apprehension as she met her mother's stern gaze. Without delay, Mrs Kim voiced her frustration.
"Ji-hye, do you have any understanding of the time?" Mrs Kim's voice dripped with disappointment. "I entrusted you with a simple errand, yet you took an eternity to return. This lack of responsibility is utterly unacceptable."
Ji-hye’s shoulders slumped, her voice trembling as she attempted to explain herself. "I apologize, Mother," she murmured, her words laced with remorse.
"I know you were gallivanting or getting into altercations with the neighborhood troublemakers, weren't you?" Mrs. Kim glared at her daughter, her disappointment evident.
"No, Mother, please trust me," Ji-hye interjected, offering a cheeky wink, attempting to lighten the mood.
"You little rascal, I will give you a good spanking for this," Mrs. Kim exclaimed, her frustration propelling her to chase after Ji-hye playfully.
…
The Kim family gathered around the dining table, anticipation enveloping the room. Mr. Kim, taking a deep breath, observed his wife, Mrs. Kim, and their daughter Ji-hye as they assembled around the table, the alluring aroma of home-cooked food permeating the air, providing a temporary respite from the forthcoming conversation.
As they began to savor their meal, Mr. Kim's mind swirled with different thoughts, conflicting emotions battling within him, unsure whether to embrace sadness or rejoice in happiness.
Seated at the head of the table, Mr. Kim cleared his throat, his countenance serious yet brimming with a sense of purpose.
Ji-hye, her playful spirit ever-present, winked mischievously at her father. "What's the matter, Appa?" she inquired, her voice infused with a playful curiosity.
"There is an announcement I want tomake," he commenced, his voice steady.
"I have been presented with a promotion at work, one that entails relocating to New York." He revealed.
Mrs. Kim's eyes widened, a mixture of surprise and excitement dancing across her visage. "New York? That is truly remarkable, my dear!" she exclaimed, her voice tinged with eagerness.
Ji-hye looked up from the food she was focused on, her curiosity piqued. "So, we're really moving?" she asked, her voice tinged with a mixture of excitement and apprehension.
Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, Mr. Kim nodded and began to explain, his gaze shifting between his wife and daughter. "Yes my dear, we are embarking on this journey. This opportunity holds great promise, not just for me, but for our entire family. It will grant us new experiences, enhanced educational prospects, and a sea of boundless possibilities."
Ji-hye's face lit up with uncontainable excitement. "Yaaayyyy! Finally, I will get to see my big brother after such a long time!" she exclaimed, her voice brimming with exhilaration.