𝓟𝓻𝓸𝓵𝓸𝓰𝓾𝓮

“Omma, I want to transfer schools.” Bo-mi’s voice was barely above a whisper, soft enough that only her mother could hear.

Her mother didn’t look up immediately. She was buried in paperwork, the constant hum of her phone ringing in the background—another busy day at the hospital. Being a doctor meant long hours and little time for home, and that weighed on Bo-Mi more than she liked to admit.

Finally, her mother glanced up, pushing her UV-protection glasses higher on her nose. “Why? Don’t you like your school?” Her tone was calm but tinged with curiosity.

Bo-mi swallowed hard. It was always difficult to talk to her mother these days. They used to be close—laughing over small things, sharing stories—but lately, the space between them felt heavier, filled with unspoken words and awkward silences. Conversations were limited to necessities, never reaching deeper feelings.

“I just... I want to spend some time with grandmother,” Bo-mi said quietly, her eyes fixed on the worn floorboards.

Her mother sighed but didn’t seem surprised. “Alright,” she said without enthusiasm, already reaching for a file. “But first, I’ll find the best school nearby. You want good education, don’t you?”

Bo-mi quickly interrupted, hoping to steer the conversation. “Omma, Mooyoung School sounds good.” Her voice was steady, but her heart pounded nervously.

Her mother raised an eyebrow, suspicion flickering in her gaze. “Did you research it?” she asked sharply.

Bo-mi forced a smile, nodding. “Yes, I did.”

“Okay, then. Fine.” Her mother’s voice softened just a little as she returned to her work.

Bo-mi turned to leave the study, but before she could step out, her mother called softly, “And... make sure you eat dinner. I might not be home tonight.”

Bo-mi didn’t turn back. Her lips pressed into a thin line as she whispered to herself, “You always say that.”

The room felt colder after she left, filled with the distant sounds of hospital calls and the steady ticking of the clock—reminders of the life her mother was tied to, and the loneliness Bo-mi hoped to escape.