Chapter 9: Minjun and the Doctor
Minjun's first year in middle school was tranquil, primarily thanks to his friendship with Bang Eun-Kyung. Following a chaotic beginning, Minjun discovered comfort in Bang Eun-Kyung, whose lively and upbeat personality was reminiscent of Minjin.
By the end of his freshman year, Minjun had once again clinched the top academic position in his class. This accomplishment garnered attention from his homeroom teacher, who invited him for a private chat before the semester break.
"Minjun-ah, you have remarkable skills in math and science," his teacher started with a smile. "Have you considered which high school you want to attend?"
Minjun felt hesitant and uncertain about how to respond. The teacher noticed his hesitation and encouraged him, saying, "You might want to look into a science high school. Your talents would flourish there, but you must enhance your profile. Starting with the science and math clubs would be a great first step."
Minjun nodded and replied quietly, "I'll consider it."
Even though he felt unsure, the thought stayed with him as the semester ended.
On the first day of sophomore year, Minjun felt relief being in the same class as Bang Eun-Kyung again. This year, their homeroom teacher permitted them to sit together.
Minjun's status as a respected student continued to rise. His classmates admired his intellect and appearance and often sought his assistance with schoolwork. Initially, Minjun was hesitant to help, but he grew comfortable as he engaged more with them. Gradually, he smiled at their greetings and waved to familiar faces in the hallways.
When the first exam week came, Minjun again topped his class, reinforcing his reputation as the top student. His achievement ignited another wave of admiration, especially from the girls, who approached him with bashful giggles and warm smiles. Although flattered, Minjun remained reserved and concentrated on his studies.
Later in the semester, Minjun's homeroom teacher called him again, referencing their conversation last semester. When the teacher suggested he participate in science and math activities this time, Minjun consented, though with some hesitation.
Minjun also inspired his best friend, Bang Eun-Kyung, whom he urged to join the science and math clubs alongside him. Together, they quickly distinguished themselves, not just for their intelligence but also for their friendly demeanor and attractiveness. Minjun and Bang Eun-Kyung flourished in the clubs as the months went by, relishing the experiments, projects, and competitions that further enhanced their skills.
Minjun's previously reserved nature evolved into that of a friendly and self-assured young man. His popularity surged, and he gained admiration for his intelligence, charm, and affluent background. These attributes attracted the attention of many girls at school, yet Minjun stayed focused on his studies.
Despite his expanding social circle and accomplishments, one area of Minjun's life felt unfulfilled. Throughout middle school, his relationship with Minjin completely diminished. She never replied to his emails, and although he frequently thought of her, their once-close relationship faded into a distant memory. Even as Minjun discovered new sources of support, the absence of Minjin's presence lingered in his heart.
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Middle school represented a time of growth and challenges for Kang Minjun. Despite the unyielding academic pressure, Minjun excelled, preserving his top-ranking position and enjoying a popular social life among his peers. However, beneath this seemingly polished surface, a turbulent situation was developing that challenged his resilience and altered his goals.
In his senior year, Minjun's life turned upside down when his father was diagnosed with stomach cancer. This devastating news hit their family hard, leaving his mother often heartbroken and crying. Kang Xiumin, Minjun's older sibling, assumed their father's responsibilities at the company, highlighting the seriousness of the circumstances.
Minjun's father underwent surgery to remove the tumor, a procedure that left him frail and reliant on a feeding tube. Minjun and his mother took turns staying at the hospital by his father's side. Each visit was a heart-wrenching experience for Minjun as he watched the once-strong figure in his life grow thinner and weaker. Despite the pain, he began to notice the medical staff who tirelessly cared for his father. Over the months of his father's recovery, Minjun deeply admired the doctors, particularly for their skill.
One afternoon, as Minjun walked by the hospital's ambulance bay, he noticed a loud disturbance. Paramedics hurried a patient from the ambulance to the emergency room. Curious, Minjun trailed behind, maintaining a respectful distance as the event played out.
The patient, a man in critical condition, was surrounded by a flurry of activity. Doctors and nurses worked in seamless coordination, their focus unwavering. One doctor in particular caught Minjun's eye, moving with a blend of urgency and precision that left him awestruck. The doctor issued clear instructions, his calm demeanor commanding respect amid chaos. Minjun stood frozen, observing every detail until the patient was safely wheeled into the ER.
As Minjun turned to leave, a smile unfolded on his face. For the first time, he felt a clear sense of inspiration; the calm authority and skill he had witnessed ignited his aspiration to become a doctor.
As Minjun entered his father's room, thoughts of Minjin filled his mind. Her unending curiosity and drive to understand the world had always inspired him. He chuckled softly, realizing that his new pursuit mirrored Minjin's fascination, and he was now drawn to this same journey.
Minjun returned to his father's bedside, silently sitting as he began to view the hospital not as a site of grief but as a beacon of hope and recovery. This experience had sown a seed within him that would blossom into a lifelong commitment to impact the medical field.