Chapter 4 THE JOURNEY

The day when the Kim family, with heavy hearts, bids farewell to Korea and embarks on a new journey to New York. This moment is bittersweet as they leave behind their cherished home, dear friends, and familiar surroundings, yet it also heralds an exhilarating new chapter in their lives. Inquiring about their preparedness, Mrs. Kim turns to her family and asks, "Are you all packed and ready, Ji-hye?" Ji-hye, brimming with excitement, responds, "Yes, Mom. Everything is packed and prepared. It feels surreal that we are actually departing today." Mr.

Kim, while acknowledging the tremendous professional achievement that led to this opportunity, remarks with a touch of reluctance, "This is an incredible opportunity for all of us, Ji-hye. Not only am I proud of my promotion at work, but it presents a chance for our family to immerse ourselves in exciting experiences." Expressing her fondness for friends left behind, Ji-hye exclaims, "I will miss my friends dearly, but the allure of New York is irresistible! I am eager to behold the towering structures and savor the flavors of American cuisine." As they step outside, bidding farewell to their neighborhood, it appears as though the surroundings themselves bid them adieu. The familiar sights and sounds imprint themselves upon their memories, acting as poignant reminders of the place they called home for so long. "Goodbye, dear neighborhood. Gratitude fills my heart for all the treasured memories," Ji-hye bids her final farewell. They dutifully load their suitcases into the car, casting a final gaze upon their house before embarking on their journey. "It feels strange to contemplate that soon someone else will call our house their home. Nevertheless, it is time for us to embark on this new adventure," Mrs. Kim remarks. The journey to the airport is a blend of excitement and nostalgia, as they reflect upon the multitude of cherished moments they have experienced in this place. "While we have created countless memories here, it is now time to forge new ones. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity, confident that it will be a profound experience for all of us," Mr. Kim states. Upon arrival at the airport, they skillfully navigate through bustling crowds, checking in their bags and proceeding through security. "Let us remember, dear family, that we are embarking on a fresh start in New York. Let us embrace the challenges that lie ahead and make the most of this remarkable opportunity," Mr. Kim advises. As they settle in the waiting area, anticipation fills the air, electrifying the atmosphere with a sense of eager expectation. Ji-hye exclaims, brimming with excitement, "I can hardly fathom that we are on the verge of boarding the plane. It is truly happening!" The intercom announces their flight, and they eagerly make their way onto the plane, finding their seats and preparing for the lengthy journey ahead. "Buckle up, everyone. This marks the commencement of our new chapter in New York," Mrs. Kim declares. As the plane gracefully takes off, Ji-hye steals a glance out the window, observing her homeland receding into the distance. "Mum, look at the breathtaking view! This journey promises to be an extraordinary adventure," Ji-hye exclaims, her anticipation palpable. Mrs. Kim responds with equal enthusiasm, "Indeed, it does. New York, here we come! I eagerly anticipate what the future holds for our cherished family." BLACKWOOD COLLEGE Inside the private lounge of The Elites, the boys sat, their eyes betraying a sense of sadness and introspection. Seth, mustering up the courage, began to open up about his personal struggles. "Guys, I have been grappling with an issue of late. My father, as you all know, possesses tremendous wealth and influence. However, beneath his veneer of success lies a troubling pattern of infidelity. It has been profoundly challenging for me to witness the consequences this behavior has on our family. He always go around with different women and this doesn't sit well with me." Jermaine, listening attentively, expressed his empathy towards Seth's predicament. He, too, carried his own family burdens that he yearned to share. "Seth, I can truly comprehend your sentiments. While my father may not be a womanizer, he is perpetually consumed by his work. He scarcely has time for me, let alone my sick little sister. It has been an arduous journey for us." Adrian, the quiet and reserved member of the group, finally broke his silence, revealing his own family struggles. "Dear friends, I can relate to both of your experiences. Despite my father's immense wealth and power, my mother exists merely as a mistress. It is an intricately complex situation. In his relentless pursuit to preserve his image and secure me as his heir, my father often compels me to attend meetings in his office. The weight of these expectations can feel stifling at times." As the three friends bared their souls, sharing their deepest family concerns, they found solace in the realization that their abundance of wealth and privilege did not shield them from personal hardships. In this shared vulnerability, they discovered a newfound sense of unity and strength. "It is truly comforting to know that we can unburden ourselves with one another. Despite our privileged upbringings, we still confront profound familial challenges. Let us offer unwavering support to each other during these trying times," Seth expressed, a glimmer of hope in his voice. Jermaine, resolute in his commitment to their friendship, echoed Seth's sentiments. "Indeed, Seth. While our backgrounds may differ, we all navigate the complexities of our respective family dynamics. Together, we can provide guidance, understanding, and unwavering solidarity." Adrian, who had been silently contemplating their shared experiences, finally spoke up. "I concur wholeheartedly. Our collective understanding will serve as a compass to navigate the intricate terrain of our family lives. In each other, we will find the wisdom and solace we seek." THE KIM FAMILY SETTLES INTO THEIR NEW HOME IN NYC Having just arrived in the bustling city of New York, the Kim family experiences an overwhelming sense of joy as Ji-hye is finally reunited with her brother, Jae-Hyun. Separated for what feels like an eternity, the anticipation of this long-awaited reunion fills the air as they gather around the dinner table. "Jae-Hyun, it brings me immense joy to see you! I have missed you dearly," Ji-hye exclaims with heartfelt enthusiasm. Jae-Hyun reciprocates the sentiment, his excitement palpable. "I have missed you too, Ji-hye. It truly has been far too long. How was your journey here?" Ji-hye responds, her fatigue overshadowed by the joy of seeing her brother. "The journey was arduous, but your presence now makes it all worthwhile. Tell me, how have you been?" Joining them at the dinner table, Mr. and Mrs. Kim radiate happiness, reveling in this long-awaited reunion. "Ji-hye, Jae-Hyun, it is truly a delight to have the entire family together again. Jae-Hyun, we are grateful that you are here to welcome us to our new home," Mr. Kim expresses with sincere gratitude. Mrs. Kim, overcome with emotion, adds, "Indeed, Jae-Hyun, it has been quite some time since we were all together. We have much catching up to do." As they settle down to enjoy their meal, the table is adorned with an assortment of traditional Korean dishes alongside some local New York favorites that Jae-Hyun has introduced to the family. "Jae-Hyun, we extend our gratitude for introducing us to these delectable New York dishes. It is a true treat," Ji-hye remarks with a smile. "You are most welcome, Ji-hye. I have been exploring the culinary delights of this city, and I wanted to share my discoveries with all of you," Jae-Hyun responds warmly. Throughout the meal, they engage in lively conversation, exchanging stories about their experiences since their last meeting, sharing laughter and forging cherished memories. Whispering to her brother, Ji-hye mischievously says, "Jae-Hyun, you won't believe all the things that have unfolded back home. I have an abundance of tales to share with you." Jae-Hyun returns her smile and replies, "I cannot wait to hear all about it, Ji-hye. And in turn, I have a multitude of New York stories to regale you with!" Interrupting the conversation, Ji-hye playfully asks, "Oh, Jae, don't you have a girlfriend now?" Mrs. Kim interjects, cautioning, "Ji-hye, enough with your teasing,, refrain from such mischief." Ji-hye pouts, responding, "Oh, Mum, you are such a spoilsport. I was merely pulling his leg." As the evening progresses, they not only catch up on each other's lives but also discuss their aspirations and dreams for their time in New York. Addressing the family, Mr. Kim expresses, "We find ourselves in this vibrant city, brimming with boundless possibilities. Let us seize the moment, individually and as a family." Mrs. Kim wholeheartedly agrees, saying, "Absolutely, let us support one another and explore all that New York has to offer. Our time here has the potential for transformative experiences." Interrupting, Mrs. Kim offers a gentle reminder, "And Ji-hye, let us avoid any conflicts. Remember, we are no longer in Korea." Ji-hye responds, pouting once more, "Oh, Mum, rest assured, I am a peace-loving individual. Pray that no one crosses my path or provokes me, for I shall not hesitate to defend myself." Mrs. Kim retorts with a hint of amusement, "Indeed, a peace-loving person, indeed." Ji-hye redirects the conversation, expressing her gratitude, "I am immensely grateful for this time we have together as a family. Jae-Hyun, thank you for being here and guiding us through this new chapter." Jae-Hyun replies with genuine warmth, "It is my pleasure, Ji-hye. I am thrilled to have you all here. Let us create unforgettable memories in this remarkable city." THE BROWN MANSION "Mum, can you believe what Adrian did today?" Lara inquired with a hint of exasperation. Mrs. Brown, intrigued, responded, "No, tell me, what has he done this time?" Lara, feigning distress, fabricated a story, "Just because I was reprimanding a scholarship student for accidentally stepping on me, he hurled the most hurtful insult at me. It was truly the lowest point of my life." Tears welled up in her eyes. Suddenly, a voice from the doorway interjected, "She's lying," the voice trembled with fear.