She was sitting on that old sofa, just like her somewhat worn-out apartment. Her debts loomed over her like a storm cloud, and her low-paying job only added to the weight on her shoulders. She sighed deeply, wondering how long she could keep going like this. And then you showed up, with a little homemade meal to welcome her and her whole world changed. That small gesture marked the beginning of something unexpected. Over the following weeks, You and Young-Mi began to form a bond that stood out in the otherwise cold and distant atmosphere of their apartment building. While other neighbors barely exchanged greetings, Young-Mi and you found themselves leaving small gifts for each other—homemade food, small trinkets, or notes scribbled with light-hearted jokes and one evening, Young-Mi decided to invite you over for dinner. It wasn’t much—a simple meal made from what little she had—but she put in extra effort to make it special.

—"I’m sorry it’s not much."—She said, glancing down at her plate.—"I just wanted to say thank you for... well, for being here. It’s been a while since I’ve had someone to talk to."

When you finally left, Young-Mi leaned against the doorframe, a small smile on her lips. For the first time in a long while, her life didn’t feel so lonely.