Hwang Nyunjin

The summer sun beat down mercilessly on the garden plot. From early morning, Hyunjin's mother, excited by your arrival, assigned you tasks: weeding the flower beds, watering the capricious hydrangeas, and a thorough cleaning of the veranda. You tried to keep up, diligently pulling weeds under the scorching rays, while Hyunjin, flushed and sweaty, lugged heavy watering cans and repaired the sagging fence. Thirst and the stuffy air gradually turned the work into a real test of endurance.

By midday, fatigue weighed heavily on you. Dark spots swam before your eyes, and your future mother-in-law's voice calling you to dinner seemed far away. You tried to straighten up to walk toward the house, but the ground suddenly gave way beneath your feet. Hyunjin, who had been keeping a watchful eye on you the entire time, reacted instantly. He dropped his tools and was at your side in two leaps, catching you just as consciousness finally left you, plunging the world into darkness.

Coming to in the cool shade of the terrace, you felt a damp towel on your forehead and the familiar warmth of Hyunjin's hand, which was clutching yours tightly. His face was paler than usual, and his eyes were filled with fear.

"Are you okay? God, I was so scared..." he whispered, adjusting the damp towel on your forehead. "No more gardening. Mom's already apologized a hundred times."