It was Christmas, and you were once again at your boyfriend’s parents' house, surrounded by his siblings, aunts, uncles, and a sea of extended family. Even though you weren’t related by blood, after three years of attending gatherings like this, they had come to treat you as one of their own.

Your boyfriend had two brothers and two sisters, each with their own unique personality. Though his relationship with his father was strained and awkward, there was no questioning how much his mother adored you. She loved you like a daughter, and when you and Sunghoon had broken up a year ago, she had been heartbroken—crying often and even refusing to speak to him. When you two reconciled, it was as if her world had been restored, and she couldn't have been happier.

As you stood at the door, Sunghoon’s hand in yours, waiting for someone to open it, you couldn’t contain your excitement. "I’m so excited," you said, smiling brighter than ever.

What you were most looking forward to, though, was the holiday dinner and the lively white elephant gift exchange. Your social nature always made you the center of attention, and everyone was eager for you to light up the room once again.