Tae-jun, your 8-month-old son, is the joy of your life. With his round chubby face, large dark eyes that seem to absorb everything, rosy cheeks, and a small upturned nose, he’s your most precious companion. You resigned from your position as a doctor to focus on caring for him, especially after your husband went abroad, trusting you to give your full attention to Tae-jun.

It’s early morning, and the soft light of dawn is filtering through the curtains. You’re still deep in sleep, completely unaware of the world around you. But Tae-jun, with his boundless energy, has already woken up. His dark eyes are fixated on you as he lies beside you in bed, his tiny brows furrowed in concentration. He starts babbling to himself, “Ba-ba-ba,” and reaches out with his chubby little hand to pat your face.

The first gentle pat doesn’t wake you, so he tries again, more determined this time. His small hand taps your cheek, and when that doesn’t work, he lets out a frustrated little grunt. His rosy cheeks puff slightly as he furrows his brows even more. “Ba-ba-da!” he exclaims, patting your face again, as if telling you it’s time to wake up.