[Sim Seju]

I haven't seen Mom or Hayley since that not so pleasant lunch. They were both broken, and I could clearly see it. Since it takes more than five days to mend broken souls, I decide it's better for me to focus on something else entirely.

Wanting to take a break from art, I carefully avoid the gallery. I've had enough with the drama surrounding in. Instead, I decide to have lunch at a diner I usually go to with my brothers. It's called Slide Swing.

The place itself is quite popular; however, today it's even more crowded than usual. Maybe it's because there's some special offer I wasn't aware of. I have to check with the staff.

As soon as I find a table and call for someone to take my order, two voices calling for me catch my attention. "Seju! Here!"

Who's that?

I stay still until I notice two hands raised at the same spot where the voices come from. I recognize one of the two hands. It's quite big... Kevin?

Him being here is a huge surprise. I'm actually delighted. He's clearly inviting him to sit with him and, I guess, some other people with him. When I reach him, I notice he isn't alone. His sister and aunt are also here.

I'm here for a nice lunch and, hopefully, some good time with them.

"Surprise!"

Shana shows me a set of small packages. She hands them to me, one by one, and flashes a huge smile. "This is from Aunt Mae and me! The best part is yet to come, of course..." My birthday is in late September, though. Why the presents?

"Come on, take a seat!" Aunt Mae looks as excited as someone who's met their idol in person for the first time ever.

I obey and sit at the only available spot in the booth, exactly next to Kevin. It can't be casual.

I put the packs in front of me. The Salyers give me expectant glances. I turn to Kevin, longing for answers. Since he won't say a word, my gaze focuses on the two women.

"Come on, Seju, we both know you can do this. Kevin told us everything that day." What does Mae mean? Is it about the Hayley drama? Or what?

I close my eyes as I try to recollect my memories. A flash hits my mind out of a sudden. Now I remember. It must have to do with my failed attempt at asking Kevin out.

I wonder how his family reacted that day. Mine, for sure, hadn't been sympathetic. Mom had simply told me to move on. Neither Dad nor my brothers had taken my seriously. They've come to regret their reactions after since.

"Seju? Is everything okay?" Kevin brings me back to reality with a few simple, comforting words.

"S-sorry... Now I think I understand why I'm here. I'm actually grateful you came up with all this... for me."

Shana reassures me further. "Don't worry. You know you can count on us."

"Thank you. That means a lot to me." My mind drifts to Mom. If only things between us had been easier... I have to stop mulling over the past. The present is exciting; the future is promising. Why should I worry about the negatives anymore?

I gather my courage and turn to Kevin again. "Do you remember that day when we were in high school?"

"Oh, that day... I remember Mom and Aunt prepared a huge backpack for me. They also made me check everything three times." Okay, that's not exactly what I meant, but it's endearing. I'm happy he remembers this. He has always had his family's back, regardless of circumstances.

"Oh, really? Three times? They must've kept every single detail into account." I laugh as he recounts that particular event of that day.

On the other hand, Mae protests. "Come on, Kevin, you're exaggerating! Your mother and I wanted to make sure you wouldn't face setbacks." As much as precautions were necessary, what happened afterwards ruined everything.

I sigh. "Oh, setbacks. Such as teacher threatening to suspend me over Bianca's tantrum." As soon as I mention that person, my face turns darker. "I still hate her. She had me isolated, Kevin, and you were the only one who could stand up to her. If only-"

Kevin cuts me off. "No more ifs and buts, Seju. That's the past. Bianca probably got her fair share of karma. Let's enjoy the day, okay?"

"She set us apart. I feel like-"

"Seju. That's enough."

My glance falters. I can cry at any moment. Why bring that painful scene today? Both Mae and Shana exchange worried looks. I don't want to upset them, so I recollect myself and take a deep breath.

"You're right, Kevin. That's the past. We can't change it anymore. But the future doesn't need to be bad. We can make it better. This is the chance."

"What do you mean?"

"I... I think I love you."

Silence falls at our table. Kevin's relatives smile as if they're ready to see him settle down. Then, everyone laughs, including myself.

I continue, "Yes, I love you. This is what I meant to tell you back on that school outing. I know, I shouldn't-"

"I love you too, Seju."

My heart pounds like crazy. Someone call a doctor before I pass out! Seriously, hearing these words from Kevin makes me feel as if I were born again. That's the closure I needed, and I've finally got it.

What could be a magic moment is interrupted by a cheerful Mae encouraging her nephew to hand me his present. So, he has one for me, too. I'm torn between opening it now and waiting until I go back home to unpack everything.

"It's up to you, Seju. You're not forced to open it now." What should I do? Kevin's words confuse me even more. I guess I'm not ready to make a decision. I'll just enjoy lunch with him and his family.

One thing is certain, though: our feelings are clearer than crystal.

***

At home, alone, I look at the packages I've received from Shana and Mae. Not long after, my gaze turns to Kevin's present. The smallest one, but probably the most meaningful one.

I can't wait to open everything! Unboxing presents makes me feel at peace. Maybe because they come with good resolutions for the future.

I prepare for the first package when I hear my phone ringing. I expect Kevin on the other line; however, I'm surprised when I realize it's actually Hayley. Wow, we haven't talked for a while. It must be good news.

"Seju? It's me! I just want to tell you that everything is fine! The baby is so cute—you should come and see her one day." What? Has she already given birth? I've never thought she'd be so far ahead into her pregnancy when I first met her.

"Oh, what a surprise! Rest assured I'll pass by one day. I can't wait to meet the little one!" With this promise, our conversation is over.

I'm happy to have heard from Hayley—hadn't Mom told me about her, maybe I would never be part of her life. I don't think I'll ever know her full story, but that's for the better. What matters is that she's in a good place, that she can give and gain love from people who truly care about her.

Now, speaking about loved ones, it's time for me to finally open those packages. I've cherished this moment since when I returned home from Slide Swing. And, while at it, I should thank Kevin and his family for the lovely presents. Definitely.