Chapter Eighteen: Bound by Tradition.

The conversation unfolded in the Kang family's elegant living room, where the tension was palpable. Min Jun sat stiffly on a plush chair, his parents seated across from him, their expressions a mix of determination and expectation.

 Min Jun's Father: "Min Jun, you need to think about your future. Ji-Eun comes from a respected family, and she's been trained in all the ways that will make her a perfect partner for you. This isn't just about love; it's about stability and tradition."

 Min Jun felt the words like a weight pressing down on his chest. He knew this conversation was inevitable, but it didn't make it any easier.

Min Jun: "Father, I understand what you're saying, but I need you to understand something too. My heart belongs to Soo Jeon. She's the one who makes me happy, the one I want to build a life with."

 The room fell silent for a moment, his parents exchanging a glance before his mother spoke.

 Min Jun's Mother: "Soo Jeon? The ballet dancer? Min Jun, she may be talented, but she doesn't come from the right background. Her family isn't influential, and she doesn't have the connections that Ji-Eun has. How do you expect to secure your future with someone like her?"

 Min Jun felt a surge of frustration. He knew his parents were trying to protect him, but they didn't see what he saw in Soo Jeon—the grace, the strength, the love that transcended social status.

 Min Jun: "Soo Jeon is more than just a dancer, Mother. She's kind, she's strong, and she's everything I could ever want in a partner. Our connection is real, and it has nothing to do with wealth or status."

 Min Jun's Father: "You're thinking with your heart, not your head, Min Jun. Soo Jeon may be a good person, but she isn't the right match for you in the long term. Our family has a reputation to uphold. Ji-Eun is the kind of woman who can stand by your side, not just as a wife, but as a partner who can help you navigate the complexities of our world."

 Min Jun's frustration deepened. It felt as though his parents were dismissing everything that mattered to him, reducing Soo Jeon to a mere obstacle in their grand plan.

 Min Jun: "But what about love? Shouldn't that matter? I don't want to spend my life with someone just because it's 'right' on paper. Soo Jeon and I... we understand each other. We want the same things in life. Isn't that worth more than any social connection?"

 His mother's voice softened, but her words remained firm.

 Min Jun's Mother: "Love is important, Min Jun, but it's not everything. There are practical considerations, and sometimes, sacrifices have to be made. Ji-Eun is a well-trained, cultured woman who understands the responsibilities of our world. Soo Jeon, as admirable as she may be, won't be able to fulfill those same roles. You need to think about what's best for your future."

 Min Jun's hands clenched into fists, his knuckles white. He felt trapped between his love for Soo Jeon and the expectations of his family. But deep inside, he knew he couldn't betray his heart.

 Min Jun: "I'm sorry, but I can't do this. I can't marry Ji-Eun, no matter how perfect she seems in your eyes. I have to live my life on my own terms, and that means being with the woman I love, even if it doesn't fit into the plan you've made for me."

 He stood, his decision firm despite the storm of emotions swirling inside him. His parents' faces reflected a mix of shock, disappointment, and disbelief as they watched him walk out of the room, leaving behind the future they had envisioned for him.