But I’m also aware I’ve hit a wall with Jin. Pushing now will only make him retreat further.
So I let it go.
…for now.
“Fine,” I say, picking up my chopsticks and unfolding the napkin they were wrapped in. “But if something changes, I want to know. Remember we promised honesty with each other? No more ‘it’s nothing’ when it’s something. Deal?”
Jin studies me for half a second, then nods. “And you say your mother is the bossy one,” he teases. “It seems you’ve learned her ways.”
I snort out a laugh. “Like mother, like daughter.”
“Eat more,” he says, jutting his chin at my plate. “You need your strength.”
I roll my eyes but don’t argue with his latest order. Some battles aren’t worth fighting.
I opt to keep up my usual schedule. I walk the few blocks to the subway station then ride it into Suyeong where the academy is located.
The weather is cool and breezy and typical for April, and the journey is enjoyable and provides ample time to clear my head.
Maybe once I’m further along in my pregnancy and myfeet start swelling and aching more, I’ll take Jin up on his offer of a chauffeur.
It’s Friday afternoon when the final bell rings and my students leap up to pack their things. I follow their example, stuffing my binders and laptop into my tote bag.
My phone buzzes on my desk with a text from Jin.
Working late again. Don’t wait up.
And then a prompt follow-up text.
I’ll make it up to you, Tokki-ya.
I sigh, tucking the phone into my bag.
It’s the third time this week he’s been home late, and while I understand the demands of his position, I can’t help the flicker of disappointment that comes with it.
The classroom has emptied in a matter of a couple minutes. The chaotic frenzy my students often provide has been replaced by an almost eerie stillness.
I gather the last of my things—my bag, my jacket, the container of crackers I keep stashed in my desk—and head for the door.
Kelly waves at me from down the hall, already halfway to the exit. “See you Monday, Monroe!”
“See you!”
I pass Mr. Quincy, one of the other American teachers, and exchange a quick goodbye before making my way towardthe side exit of the building. It’s a shortcut I discovered during my first year teaching at Suyeong Academy.
The narrow walkway is situated between two buildings and shaves a couple minutes off my walk to the subway station.
As I push through the door, I catch a glimpse of Mr. Noh in the main hallway, speaking with a parent. The woman looks upset, gesturing emphatically while Mr. Noh nods along with patient understanding. I make a mental note to thank him again for the tea on Monday.
Afternoon light still quickly fades away this time of year, which means the passageway between the buildings is a little dim and plagued by shadows.
I push through, walking briskly down the walkway with my tote swinging from my shoulder.
Jin said he won’t be home for dinner, but I’ll put something together anyway. We have some chicken breast thawing that I could use to?—
A figure leaps out from behind a dumpster.
I stop short, my heart lurching into my throat.
