The opening: Part- time hustle.

It was another busy day in Seoul. The streets were bustling with people, cars honking, neon signs flickering, and the sound of city life never stopping. Jimin was in the middle of the chaos, weaving his way through the crowd like a fish in a school. His school uniform, slightly wrinkled, clung to him as he sprinted past street vendors and over potholes. A school bag hung from his shoulder, bouncing with each hurried step. He didn’t even bother to stop for the crossing light, darting across a zebra crossing just as the green pedestrian signal flickered out.

“Damn, I’m late!” Jimin muttered under his breath, barely noticing the woman selling tteokbokki or the street performer dancing to a catchy K-pop song.

Finally, he arrived at his destination: the small, cozy café tucked between two tall buildings. The neon sign flickered with a warm, inviting glow—"Café Momo"—but Jimin knew what to expect once inside.

---

As soon as he pushed the door open, the familiar scent of coffee beans and pastries hit him. The owner, a grumpy middle-aged woman named Mrs. Lee, was at the counter, wiping down cups with a cloth. She turned sharply when she saw Jimin rushing in, sweat dripping from his forehead.

---

“Park Jimin!” Mrs. Lee called out, her voice a mix of annoyance and affection. “You’re late again! What’s the excuse this time?”

Jimin, panting from his sprint, flashed her an apologetic grin. “Sorry, sorry! The bus was slow, I swear!”

Mrs. Lee rolled her eyes. “The bus? You don’t even take the bus! You’re just running around like a chicken without a head, as usual!”

Jimin chuckled, scratching the back of his head. “Well, you know, the streets of Seoul are like a battlefield! You’ve gotta dodge the traffic, the crowds, the… uh, the pigeons!” He gestured at a flock of birds perched on a nearby rooftop.

Mrs. Lee shook her head, though she couldn’t help but smile a little. “If you spent as much time studying as you do running around making excuses, maybe you’d actually pass your exams.”

Jimin shrugged. “Who needs perfect grades when you have great street skills?”

At that moment, Mrs. Lee's face softened, but only slightly. “Alright, alright, get to work. I’m not paying you to stand there and make jokes.”

Jimin beamed at her, happy to be in the familiar rhythm of his second home. He grabbed his apron and tied it around his waist. But then, in an unusually dramatic fashion, he stood up straight and raised a hand like he was about to announce something life-changing.

“I have big news!”

Mrs. Lee paused, glancing at him skeptically. “Oh? What now?”

With a wide grin, Jimin announced with pride, “I got into one of the most prestigious schools in Seoul!”

Mrs. Lee blinked, clearly taken aback for a moment. She stared at him, narrowing her eyes. “Wait... what?”

Jimin puffed his chest out dramatically, trying his best to look important. “Yup, you’re looking at the newest student at the famous Sungwon Academy! The same school that produces all the top students and CEOs, and one day, I’ll be there too!”

There was a beat of silence before Mrs. Lee broke out laughing. “Sungwon Academy? You’re barely able to get out of bed on time, and now you’re going to one of the hardest schools in Seoul? Don’t make me laugh!”

Jimin chuckled too, not phased by her teasing. “I swear, it’s true! They accepted me after my interview. The principal said I’m ‘full of potential.’”

Mrs. Lee raised an eyebrow. “Full of potential? More like full of nonsense! But alright, if you’re really going to that school, don’t forget who taught you the real skills—like making coffee and keeping up with Seoul’s madness.”

Jimin shrugged casually. “Of course! I wouldn’t have made it through without your life lessons, Mrs. Lee. I’ll always be grateful for this humble café and your... charming personality.”

Mrs. Lee smirked. “You better be! Now, enough chit-chat. You’ve got coffee to make and orders to fill.”

---

Jimin moved behind the counter, his hands working mechanically. He glanced out the window at the bustling streets of Seoul, feeling a sudden sense of both excitement and nervousness. This new chapter was a huge change for him. Sungwon Academy—the school was known for being ultra-competitive, filled with the richest, most influential students in the country. He couldn’t believe he’d actually been accepted.

But as he stared at the faces passing by outside, all hustling toward their own destinations, he couldn’t help but smile. In the chaos of Seoul, everyone had their own story, their own dreams, their own struggles. And maybe, just maybe, his dream was starting to come true.

Jimin’s thoughts were interrupted by the shrill ring of the cash register. He quickly grabbed a latte and handed it to a customer with a smile. But as he did, he couldn’t shake the feeling that something big was about to change in his life.

Little did he know, it wasn’t just his school acceptance that would turn his world upside down—it was the unexpected encounter that was about to change everything.

---

Jimin’s shift finally came to an end, and as the clock struck 9 PM, he wiped his hands on his apron and grabbed his bag, ready to head out.

“See you tomorrow, Mrs. Lee!” he called over his shoulder with a bright grin.

Mrs. Lee, already half-distracted, waved him off with a half-hearted grunt. “Try not to be late next time, or you’ll be fired before you even start your fancy school!”

Jimin laughed and waved her goodbye, stepping out into the cool Seoul night. The streets were quieter now, but there was still a sense of energy, a pulse to the city that he couldn’t quite explain. He walked home through the winding, neon-lit roads, humming a tune to himself, his spirits high despite the long day. His mind was filled with excitement about Sungwon Academy, about the future, about how he would show everyone that he belonged there.

“This is it,” he thought, “a fresh start!”

The city lights gleamed down on him, and he took a deep breath, savoring the peaceful night. The chaotic, fast-paced day had finally slowed down, and for the first time in a long while, he felt like things were going his way.

But, as always, home had other plans for him.

---

Jimin reached his small apartment, located in a cramped building on the edge of the city. He was still humming when he opened the door—only to be immediately met with a slap across the face.

“Ow!” he yelped, stumbling back. “What the—?!”

Standing in front of him, hands on her hips, was his little sister, Soojin. Her face was red with fury, and her eyes narrowed in anger. “Where’s my ID, Jimin?!”

Jimin rubbed his cheek, confused and slightly hurt. “What are you talking about, Soojin? You slapped me over—?!”

But before he could finish, Soojin stormed forward, grabbing him by the collar. “You used my ID to buy comics at the shop, didn’t you?!” she demanded, her voice rising with every word.

Jimin blinked, taken aback. “Wait, you’re mad about that? I thought you’d be happy I got you that limited edition manga! It’s so rare!”

Soojin’s face turned an even deeper shade of red. “You didn’t just borrow my ID! You lied to the shopkeeper about your age and told them I was the one buying it!”

Jimin scratched his head, feeling guilty but also a little proud. “I mean, it’s not like you don’t owe me for all the times you steal my stuff and break my headphones—”

Soojin’s eyes widened in disbelief. “You—!” she screamed, her tiny fists coming to life as she began to pummel him with all her might. “I knew I shouldn’t have trusted you! You're the worst older brother ever!”

Jimin tried to block the hits, but it was like being attacked by a tiny, furious tornado. He was laughing, despite the pain, trying to calm her down. “Okay, okay, Soojin, you’re right! I was wrong! I’ll make it up to you—just stop hitting me!”

But it was no use. Soojin’s tiny fists kept coming, and Jimin was in full retreat, trying to dodge the punches while still holding his bag. “You can’t hit me this much! It’s abuse! My dignity!”

Just as the chaos reached its peak, the door to their small apartment swung open, and their mother appeared—looking more tired than usual but still managing to exude an air of authority.

“Jimin! Soojin! What in the world is going on?” she demanded, raising an eyebrow and surveying the scene. Jimin was trying to shield himself behind a couch cushion while Soojin was still aiming punches at him.

Soojin whirled around, pointing at her brother. “He used my ID to buy comics! He’s been lying and stealing!”

Jimin straightened up, wiping his brow. “Mom, it’s not what you think! I bought it for her as a surprise—!”

Their mother, still holding her purse, let out an exaggerated sigh and shook her head. “You’re unbelievable, Jimin. You can’t even keep track of your own money, and now you’re going around using your sister’s ID to buy comics. How did you even think that was a good idea?!”

Jimin opened his mouth to defend himself, but his mother cut him off with a glare that made him freeze. “You’ve been working part-time at a café all week and still can’t figure out how to buy things the proper way? Do I need to teach you how to manage money like a responsible adult? You’re supposed to be helping Soojin, not causing trouble for her!”

Jimin, feeling defeated, lowered his head. “Sorry, Mom, it won’t happen again…”

Soojin crossed her arms and glared at him. “You better not! And give me back my ID. I’m keeping it hidden this time!”

Their mother rubbed her temples, clearly at her wit’s end. “Honestly, I thought I’d be getting a good night’s rest, but you two… it’s like living in a circus. Just stop causing drama and go to your businesses. Dinner would be served a little late today."

Jimin, still slightly stunned by the turn of events, nodded sheepishly. “Yeah, okay, Mom. I promise I won’t use her ID again.”

Soojin nodded too, though she wasn’t done glaring at him just yet. “And no more comic shop trips without permission!”

As they both retreated to their rooms, Jimin sighed, sitting down on the couch. “Man, I thought I was the one getting a ‘fresh start,’ but it’s like I’m still the little brother caught in the chaos.”

---

The family sat down at the dinner table, the familiar clink of dishes and utensils filling the room as the food was served. The warm aroma of kimchi stew and freshly made rice made the small apartment feel homier, a contrast to the chaos that had just unfolded. Jimin sat across from Soojin, still rubbing his cheek where she’d slapped him earlier, his mood now slightly lifted by the presence of dinner.

Their mother, busy dishing out rice into each bowl, glanced up and raised an eyebrow. “Your father will be home soon. You two better calm down before he gets here.”

Jimin shot a look at Soojin, whose arms were still crossed and whose glare was laser-focused on him. He couldn’t resist a mischievous grin as he leaned back in his chair and stuck out his tongue at her.

Soojin rolled her eyes. “You’re so childish, Jimin.”

As if on cue, the front door creaked open, and their father, a tall, broad-shouldered man in his mid-forties, stepped into the apartment. He wore his work uniform, which had a few creases from the long shift, but his tired face softened when he saw his family gathered around the table.

“I’m home,” he said with a tired smile, loosening his tie. His voice was calm but firm, and there was an undeniable warmth to his presence. “What’s all this noise about? Is everyone okay?”

Jimin’s little sister, Soojin, immediately jumped into action, seizing the moment to complain.

“Dad! Jimin used my ID to buy comics again! I told him not to do it, but he’s always so selfish and doesn’t listen!”

Her words came out in a rushed, frustrated tone, and she glared at Jimin like he was the culprit of some great injustice.

Their father, who had been removing his shoes by the door, paused and then sighed. He could already tell what this was about. “Jimin,” he said in a calm but authoritative tone. “What did I tell you about messing with your sister’s stuff?”

Jimin winced but kept his cool, knowing what was coming. “I know, Dad. I was wrong. But I bought her the comic to make up for it—”

But before he could finish, their father raised a hand, signaling him to stop. He turned to Soojin and smiled. “Now, now, Soojin, don’t be too hard on your brother. You should be proud of him.”

Soojin blinked, confused. “Proud of him? For what? He’s always doing stuff like this—”

Their father, still standing by the door, leaned against the frame and smiled warmly. “Your brother just got into Sungwon Academy, the top school in Seoul. You should give him a little respect for that. It’s not easy, you know.”

Jimin, who had been silently absorbing the situation, couldn’t help but let out a small, smug grin. He met his sister’s eyes and threw her a look—one full of playful triumph. “Looks like Dad’s got my back on this one,” he teased.

Soojin shot him an exasperated look, but her father wasn’t finished yet. He walked over to the table and took a seat, looking at Jimin with a serious yet warm expression.

“Jimin,” he said softly, his voice taking on a more fatherly tone. “I’m proud of you for getting into such a prestigious school. It’s a big step, and I’m sure it wasn’t easy. But with that achievement comes responsibility.”

Jimin’s smug grin faltered as he met his father’s gaze, realizing where this conversation was going.

“You’re no longer just a student,” his father continued. “You’re growing up now. Your sister looks up to you, and your mother depends on you. It’s time for you to step up and be the man of this family. You need to look after them, especially your mother.”

Jimin swallowed, feeling the weight of his father’s words. His teasing attitude faded, replaced by a quiet, humble acknowledgment.

Soojin, who had been sulking at first, softened when she heard their father’s words. “I know Jimin can be a pain sometimes, but I guess I want him to be there for me, too,” she muttered, her voice quieter now.

Their father smiled and placed a hand on Jimin’s shoulder. “I know your sister can be a bit... dramatic. But she’s your responsibility now, and you need to be there for her, even when she doesn’t admit it.”

Jimin nodded slowly. “I get it, Dad. I’ll do better.”

Their mother, who had been quietly observing the conversation, let out a deep breath. “We all know Jimin’s not perfect. But he’s family. And in the end, that’s what matters.”

The tension in the room slowly dissipated, and for the first time that night, everyone settled into their seats around the table.

Soojin huffed and crossed her arms. “Fine, I’ll forgive you this time. But only because you got into that fancy school, you’re lucky.”

Jimin shot her a playful look. “Lucky, huh? It’s all part of the plan. You’ll see when I’m running the world one day.”

Soojin snorted. “Yeah, yeah, sure.”

Their father chuckled softly, shaking his head. “Alright, enough with the drama. Let’s eat. We’ve got a long road ahead of us, and it’s time we all start taking things seriously. Jimin, you especially. The future’s waiting for you.”

As they dug into their dinner, Jimin couldn’t help but feel a warmth inside. Despite the teasing and the chaos, his family had his back. He had responsibilities now, and with that came a sense of purpose. His father’s words had hit home, and maybe, just maybe, it was time for him to stop being the carefree, reckless younger brother and start becoming someone his family could rely on.

For now, though, he’d enjoy the warmth of home—family, food, and all. It wasn’t perfect, but it was his.

---

Jimin’s POV:

The clink of silverware and the quiet hum of conversation lingered in the background as I walked back to my room after dinner. The taste of kimchi stew still lingered in my mouth, and the warmth of the family meal wrapped around me like a blanket. But as I closed the door behind me and collapsed onto my bed, a quiet unease started to creep in.

I stared up at the ceiling, the dim light from the lamp beside my bed casting long shadows across the room. My mind wandered back to the conversation at dinner—my dad’s words about responsibility, my sister’s complaints, and the way my mom had quietly observed it all. They all had expectations now. Expectations I wasn’t sure I was ready for.

Sungwon Academy.

I couldn’t shake the thought. I had gotten in, and everyone was so proud of me. I was supposed to be happy about that, right? To feel like this was a turning point in my life. But for some reason, I couldn’t fully embrace it. Maybe it was because, in my head, I wasn’t just starting something new—I was supposed to be someone new. Someone responsible. Someone who could hold it all together, for the family.

I closed my eyes for a moment, letting the silence of my room envelop me. The weight of my father’s words pressed against my chest like a heavy blanket. "You’re no longer just a student. You’re growing up now. Your sister looks up to you, and your mother depends on you."

The weight of it all felt a little suffocating. I wasn’t used to being the responsible one. Soojin had always been the dramatic one, the one who complained about everything. And my mom? She worked so hard every day just to keep the family afloat. It was like we were always in motion—just going through the motions of life, trying to survive in this chaotic city. My dad... he was always so calm, always the anchor. But even he was looking at me differently now. Like I was supposed to take on more.

The more I thought about it, the more I realized something: I wasn’t sure how to be the person they all seemed to think I could be. Sure, I could get into a prestigious school. But did that mean I could really handle the weight of all their hopes? Could I really step up and be there for Soojin, for Mom? Could I carry my family forward like Dad expected me to?

It wasn’t just about going to class or taking exams. It was about life. And in that moment, lying there in my bed, I felt like I didn’t know how to balance it all.

But then, a small, warm thought broke through the fog of uncertainty.

I don’t have to be perfect.

I thought about the family dinner. I thought about how Mom had sighed, how Soojin had grudgingly forgiven me, and how Dad had actually smiled—smiled, after everything. They had this unspoken way of showing love, even through the chaos. Even when they were disappointed with me, they still cared.

Maybe I didn’t have to have it all figured out right now. Maybe I could grow into this responsibility, step by step. I wasn’t alone in this, after all. They were my family, and no matter how much I messed up or how much I struggled, we’d be there for each other.

I took a deep breath, feeling the weight lift from my chest, just a little.

Sungwon Academy was a huge deal, but that was just one chapter. There were a million more ahead of me, and I wasn’t going to face them alone. I had my family. And maybe, just maybe, that was all I really needed to get through the next part of my life.

I smiled softly to myself, closing my eyes and letting the warmth of that thought settle into my bones.

For now, I could rest. Tomorrow was another day, and there would be more challenges, more struggles, but there would also be more love. And maybe that was enough for now.

I pulled the blanket up to my chin, feeling the comfort of the bed beneath me, and let the quiet settle around me as I drifted off to sleep.

- Continue