“I’m so proud of Ji-hoon,” Joon-seok said, his voice filled with genuine happiness. “He’s going to the best university in the country.”
Mi-sook, who was preparing dinner, nodded with a smile. “Of course. He worked for it, and he earned it.”
But then, Joon-seok sighed deeply. “But… it’s going to cost a fortune.”
Ji-hoon froze just outside the doorway, his heart tightening at the words.
“It’s not just tuition,” his father continued, rubbing his temples. “There are living expenses, books, travel. Even if I work day and night, even if we cut down on everything, it still won’t be enough. But no matter what… I will make sure Ji-hoon gets the future he deserves.”
Mi-sook stopped stirring the soup and turned to face him. “We’ll find a way. We always do.” But Ji-hoon could hear the worry laced in her voice.
He stepped forward, making his presence known. His parents turned to look at him, surprised. Ji-hoon forced a smile and walked up to them. “You don’t have to worry about the fees,” he said confidently.
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Joon-seok frowned. “Ji-hoon, this isn’t something you need to—”
“I applied for the university scholarship,” Ji-hoon interrupted, his voice steady. “Because my entrance rank was in the top percentile, I’m eligible for full financial support.”
His father’s expression shifted. “University scholarship?”
“Yes,” Ji-hoon nodded. “There’s an interview for it, and I’ll pass. I promise. You won’t have to pay anything.”
Silence filled the room for a moment. His parents exchanged glances, processing what he had just said.
Mi-sook was the first to react. She walked up to Ji-hoon and cupped his face with her hands. “You really thought of everything, didn’t you?” Her voice was filled with admiration, her eyes soft with pride.
Joon-seok let out a deep breath, shaking his head slightly before chuckling. “You really are something, son.” There was relief in his voice, though a hint of hesitation still lingered.
Ji-hoon knew his father well. Even now, even with the promise of a scholarship, Joon-seok was probably wondering what would happen if Ji-hoon didn’t get it. He was a man who always prepared for the worst.
“I will get it,” Ji-hoon reassured him firmly. “So please, don’t worry.”
His father nodded, this time with more confidence. “Alright. We believe in you.”
That night, Ji-hoon lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. His heart was at ease knowing that, for now, he had eased his family’s worries. But another feeling crept into his chest—determination.
He had to get that scholarship. He had no other choice.