Quantum Entanglement Love (Series 1)

Bang Eun-Kyung came home after a tiring day at school. He opened the door to the inviting scent of home-cooked meals from the kitchen. After dropping his bag by the entrance, he walked into the kitchen and saw his father diligently making dinner. His father looked up and greeted him with a warm smile.
"You're home, Eun-Kyung-ah," his father said. "Go change your clothes. Dinner will be ready soon." Bang Eun-Kyung nodded but paused before going to his room to ask, "Where's eomma?"
His father's expression softened as he replied, "She'll be home late. Many customers are visiting her today since it's the start of autumn and a new semester. She's quite busy helping them."
Bang Eun-Kyung sighed and glanced back at his father, who was busy at the stove. He wished his mother could be there, quietly dedicated like his dad, as he took care of the household chores. Without saying anything more, he went to his room to change.
As Bang Eun-Kyung entered the kitchen, he noticed the table was already set. His father asked him to sit, and they started their meal together. The mood was easygoing as they shared casual conversations.
"How was school today?" asked his father, a smile on his face.
Ban Eun-Kyung's tiredness faded as he excitedly shared the day's happenings. His father listened closely, nodding at his son's tales. When their discussion shifted to Ban Eun-Kyung's friendship with Minjun, his father's demeanor became more reflective.

"I'm thankful for Minjun," his father remarked gently. "It's rare for someone from a family like his to be such a great friend to you."
Ban Eun-Kyung stopped mid-bite and shook his head. "That doesn't matter to Minjun. He's not like that."
His father nodded with a warm smile, comforted by his son's assurance. They resumed eating in a comfortable silence until they heard the front door creak open.
Bang Eun-Kyung's mother walked in, clearly exhausted. She greeted them with a weary smile, and her husband promptly rose to assist her at the table. Sitting beside him, she leaned back in her chair while he filled her plate.
"You must be hungry," he remarked, adding rice and the main dish to her plate and shifting the side dishes within reach. "Come, join us."
Bang Eun-Kyung observed their interaction silently, noting his father's small yet considerate actions. He let out a quiet sigh.
"Was today a busy day, eomma?" Bang Eun-Kyung inquired.
"Exhausting," she said, her tone heavy with fatigue. "So many customers came today. It's beneficial for business, but I barely could breathe."
Her husband set a glass of water next to her and smiled. "At least you're home now. Take your time eating."
Bang Eun-Kyung listened as his mother animatedly shared about her day, her energy contrasting with her tiredness. His father gave her gentle attention, lightening the mood during their conversation. Watching his parents, Bang Eun-Kyung realized his father's patience even though his mother had been occupied with her duties as a shaman. He let out a sigh as he continued eating.
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Mun Sara sat silently at the dinner table, the soft sound of utensils echoing in the room. Her mother's stern gaze fixed on her from across the table, reflecting a familiar blend of expectation and criticism.
"How are your studies, Sara-ah?" her mother inquired, her voice crisp and uncompromising. "You're now a sophomore. Are you managing your workload?"
Mun Sara ate her food before replying, "Yes, eomma. I'm doing well. I've kept up my grades and am still the second top student in class, alongside Minjun."
When Minjun was mentioned, her mother's face lit up with a proud smile. "That's my girl," she remarked, her pride clear. "You've made great progress so far, but it's essential to maintain it. Your academic performance and social standing matter. Staying close to Minjun is a wise choice; he comes from a respected family and is very smart. Associating with him will benefit you."
Mun Sara nodded again about her mother's calculated approach to her friendships.
Her mother's face lit up even more as she said, "I'm truly proud of you for choosing to take the Mensa exam. It's high time we recognize your IQ potential. Honestly, I feel it's my fault for not thinking of this sooner." She laughed warmly, a touch of satisfaction in her voice. "But I'm sure you'll do great. You've always had a keen mind."
Mun Sara managed a small smile, and her mother's confidence in her was reassuring and burdensome.
"When the Mensa results are released and meet my expectations, you'll make me prouder," her mother interjected. However, in an instant, her demeanor shifted to one of seriousness. Her tone softened, now laced with urgency. "Don't let me down, Sara-ah. You understand how much I've put into you. I can't afford to feel embarrassed before my friends. Give it your all."
Mun Sara lowered her head, her heart sinking under her mother's expectations. She felt a lump rise in her throat but quickly swallowed it down. "Yes, Mom. I promise I won't disappoint you," she said softly.
As she ate, a swirl of emotions stirred within her. She felt regret; the Mensa test appeared to be a poor choice. Yet, determination soon emerged. She was determined not only to prove herself to her mother but also to gain Minjun's admiration. A subtle smile danced on her lips as she completed her meal, her thoughts already set on the challenge.