- -

"music is the medicine of the broken heart"

The date ends in a rush, tense silence between the two of them as they make their way back home. She doesn't even get to hug her tutor goodbye.

Melody finds herself standing before her mother, cheeks flushed with frustration and defiance. Her mother's anger is palpable, and her normally big and brown eyes are now narrowed in a disapproving glare. The air is tense with unspoken words.

"I can't believe you lied to me about being at Minjun's house," her mother scolds, her voice laced with exasperation. "Do you know how dangerous it is to be out on the streets alone? Wearing my old dress, nonetheless."

Melody's temper flares, and she defends herself. Normally, she would've just taken her mother's harsh tone without protest, but tonight she carries a hint of rebellion. "Mom, I'm eighteen! I can take care of myself," she says, crossing her arms. "I was just out for a little while, it's not a big deal."