Intro 1/2
Innocence’s Awakening
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In the hallway, you stand, a small, wide-eyed child of 3 years old named Ji-Min, peering through the crack of your parents' bedroom door, Tyra Kim and Jun Kim.
This is a daily ritual for you.
You long for their attention, their love, their care.
But instead, you find only disappointment.
Your parents, deeply engrossed in their thriving careers, always seem too busy to spare you a moment.
Your heart aches, but you are determined to keep trying.
Amidst the confusion about your parents' behavior, you never feel loneliness. Your cousin and neighbor Jae-Min, just 7 months older than you, becomes your beacon of solace, as the two of you seek comfort in each other's presence.
Despite the emotional void left by your parents, the bond with Jae-Min brings light and warmth into your life.
He sneaks you extra sweet treats when no one is looking and stays up late into the night with you, whispering stories to make you feel safe and loved.
During this time, you also feel the calming presence of Jalen Llewellyn and Koisuke Hane, two young students hired as nannies to help care for you.
They become an integral part of your daily life, offering support, love, and companionship during the hours when your parents are consumed by their work—meaning each second of your life.
Even at the tender age of three, their presence brings a sense of stability and kindness into your world.
In those moments, Koisuke feels like a second dad, providing guidance and care, while Jalen's nurturing and compassionate manner resembles that of a mom, offering a unique kind of tenderness and understanding.
But you also have Jae-Min's parents, Han-wool Janggok and Chae-Won Janggok, your mother's little sister, who are a comforting presence in your life, offering their support and care whenever you are around them. Their presence adds an extra layer of warmth and love.
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Summer Day
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As you run through the grassy field with Jae-Min, Jalen, and Koisuke close behind, you exclaim, your voice full of excitement.
Ji-Min: 저기 예쁜 나비들 봐! (Look at those pretty butterflies!)
Jae-Min chimes in.
Jae-Min: 색깔이 정말 다채롭네! (They're so colorful!)
With laughter in his voice, he adds.
Jae-Min: 하나 잡자! (Let's catch one!)
As you all leap and twirl, trying to catch the elusive creatures, Jalen cheer you on.
Jalen: You can do it, Ji-Min! Just a little closer!
Koisuke join in, his voice full of encouragement.
Koisuke: 잘하고 있어! 계속해! (You're doing great! Keep going!)
After a few exhilarating moments, a butterfly land delicately on Jae-Min's outstretched hand. You all gasp in awe, marveling at its beauty.
With a wide smile on your face, you exclaim.
Ji-Min: 와! 재민이 잡았어! (Wow! Jae-Mini caught one!)
Jae-Min grins, his eyes shining with pride.
Jae-Min: 내가 했어! 이제 너 차례야, 지민아! (I did it! Now it's your turn, Ji-Min ah!)
With their support and cheers, you continue your playful chase, fill with laughter and a sense of share joy.
One afternoon, in the cozy living room, your small hands clutch a crayon as you doodle on a scrap of paper, your focus intense. The air hums with the familiar sounds of home, filled with the gentle rustle of pages and the occasional murmur of voices.
You feel safe, cocooned in the warmth shared with Koisuke and Jalen, who sit nearby, their faces softened with affection as they watch over you.
Suddenly, a surge of warmth bubbles up inside you, and you turn towards them, your face brightening with a joyful realization. You drop the crayon, grab the drawing you just did to them, stretch out your tiny arms, and with all the earnestness of your three-year-old heart, you exclaim.
Ji-Min: Daddy! Mommy! Look!
The words hang in the air, simple yet profound. Shock and joy flash across Koisuke’s and Jalen’s faces, a complex dance of emotions that freezes them for a heartbeat. Before they can gather themselves to gently correct your innocent mistake, the moment shatters.
Footsteps thud rapidly approaching, and your parents burst into the room, their expressions stormy. They’ve overheard your words, and their faces are clouded with disapproval. Your mother’s voice is sharp, a harsh scold that stings like a slap.
Mother: Ji-Min! What did you just say?!
Your father’s words are blunt and cold, slicing through the tender atmosphere.
Father: You should not call them that. They are not your parents!
Tears well up in your eyes as you shrink back, the warmth draining from your cheeks. Behind your parents, unseen by them, a silent drama unfolds. Jalen’s face twists with anger, his body tensing as if to confront them.
But before he can speak, Koisuke’s hand clamps over his mouth, his other arm wrapping around Jalen’s waist to hold him back. Koisuke’s eyes are wide with alarm, a silent plea for restraint.
Jalen struggles, his muffled protests vibrating against Koisuke’s palm. Koisuke lifts him slightly, dragging him out of the room as Jalen kicks and squirms in his grasp.
They disappear for a moment, only for Jalen to break free and reappear, his expression fiery with indignation. Koisuke is right behind, catching him just in time, wrapping his arms around him in a comical bear hug that looks like a wrestling match.
As your parents continue their stern lecture, unaware of the comedy behind them, your tears begin to dry, replaced by a growing amusement at the absurdity of the situation.
Jalen’s antics, his exaggerated silent yells, and Koisuke’s desperate attempts to restrain him turn your frightened tears into giggles.
Finally, your parents stop scolding and turn around to face Koisuke and Jalen, who instantly switch from their chaotic struggle to an innocent calmness. Their faces are serene, as if the previous moments of silent fury and comedic wrestling never happened.
Your parents’ faces set in stern expressions as they address Koisuke and Jalen. Their voices are firm, resonating with a finality that underscores their command.
Parents: Make sure it never happens again.
With that, they stride out of the house, off to work. The door closes with a click, leaving behind a charged silence. Jalen rushes over to you, scooping you up in his arms. His eyes search yours, filled with worry and love.
Jalen: Are you okay, little one?
Koisuke joins in, his concern palpable as he crouches beside you, his hand resting lightly on your back.
Koisuke: We’re here for you, no matter what.
You nod, a small smile playing on your lips as you lean into Jalen’s embrace.
Ji-Min: I didn’t hear them. You were being silly.
From that day on, whenever you face a scolding, Koisuke and Jalen make sure to turn these moments into a silent comedy show just for you.
They master the art of distraction, ensuring that your little world is filled with laughter, even in the midst of misunderstanding. This becomes their unspoken promise to you, a vow to shield you from harsh words with the softness of humor and the strength of their love.
Months later, you still seek your parents' love.
You eagerly approached them, clutching your tiny handmade gifts in your tiny hands, hoping they would finally acknowledge you.
But once again, you faced indifference.
Your mother barely had time to glance at your offering, dismissing it with a distracted smile.
Your father often arrived home late, too exhausted to engage with you.
Jae-Min, your steadfast companion, shared in the disappointment of your parents' indifference, offering unwavering support and understanding.
You and Jae-Min still seek solace in each other's company, strengthening your bond.
Throughout this difficult period, Koisuke and Jalen remain a constant presence.
They have been with you since you were born.
You adore them, as they shower you with affection, attention, and love.
Koisuke, Jae-Min, and Jalen are an integral part of your support system, enriching your young life with love and understanding.
With their unwavering presence and care, you find a sense of belonging and family that fills the void created by your parents' absence.
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The year you turn 4, spring camping
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Excitement evident in his voice Jalen says.
Jalen: Ready for a camping adventure, everyone?
Brimming with anticipation you and Jae-Min reply simultaneously.
Ji-Min and Jae-Min: Yes!
Koisuke, showing you the ropes, carefully arranges the firewood and guides your hands to ignite the fire.
Koisuke: 너 자연스러워, 지민아! (You're a natural, Ji-Min ah!)
Eyes sparkling Jae-Min chimes in,
Jae-Min: So cool.
You smile at them.
As the aroma of marshmallows fills the air, warmth envelops you all, like a cozy blanket.
Jalen: Alright, now let's sing a song!
Strumming his guitar Jalen adds,
Jalen: What should we sing first?
Jae-Min: How about the Rainbow Song?
You enthusiastically nod your head.
J-Min: Yes! I love that song!
And so, under the shimmering stars and Jalen's guitar, the four of you begin to sing. Koisuke, Jae-Min, and you harmonize sweetly, the melodies carrying into the night, overflowing with warmth.
As the song comes to an end, you gaze at Jalen, Koisuke, and Jae-Min, feeling a deep sense of gratitude and belonging.
As you put your head against Jalen's arm, your voice resonates with happiness.
Ji-Min: I'm so happy we're all here together.
With a smile, Jalen replies.
Jalen: Me too. My little bundle of joy. We love you.
Koisuke adds in a warm, gentle voice.
Koisuke: 그리고 우리는 항상 널 사랑할 거야. (And we will always love you.)
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The year you turn 5…
Your bond with Koisuke, Jalen, and Jae-Min grows stronger.
They are your pillars of support, the ones you turn to for comfort and love.
You still yearn for your parents' affection but find solace in the warmth and care provide by what you consider like your second ‘parents’ and your cousin.
Jae-Min's presence brought a special kind of joy and understanding into your life, enabling you to navigate the complexities of childhood with a sense of resilience and companionship.
He is your partner in crime, devising secret handshakes and silly dance routines that bring laughter into your life.
He always knows how to make you feel special on your rough days, whether with a bouquet of wildflowers or a homemade card expressing his unwavering support and love for you.
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Summer adventure
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One sunny afternoon, Jalen, Koisuke, Jae-Min, and you decide to venture into the great unknown... the backyard. Armed with overactive imaginations and an insatiable desire for adventure, you gather near the swing set, ready to embark on a mission of epic proportions.
His voice fills with dramatic flair Koisuke declares.
Koisuke: Alright, team, our mission, should we choose to accept it, is to retrieve the lost treasure of the legendary Pirate Monkey!
Gasps fill the air, and Jae-Min's eyes grow wide with excitement.
Jae-Min: Pirate Monkey? I heard the treasure is buried deep in the sandbox!
You nod, your face determined.
Ji-Min: We have to be brave, sneaky, and quick! The Pirate Monkey won't make it easy for us!
Jalen, always ready with words of wisdom, speaks up.
Jalen: Remember, young adventurers, caution is our ally. The Pirate Monkey's tricks are unmatched, but with teamwork, we shall prevail!
With a collective nod, you set off towards the sandbox, the imagine sound of pirate cannons echoing in your ears. As you reach the sandy treasure trove, you huddle together, strategizing your plan.
Pointing to the playhouse Koisuke says.
Koisuke: Alright, Jae-Min, you, be the lookout, let us know if any pirate mischief is afoot!
Jae-Min salutes, a mischievous grin plastered on his face.
Jae-Min: Aye aye, Captain!
With Jae-Min on the lookout, you and Jalen begin digging furiously, your plastic shovels striking the sand with determination. Each scoop brings you closer to the elusive treasure, or so you believe.
Jae-Min's voice echoes from the playhouse.
Jae-Min: Arr, I hear the Pirate Monkey approaching!
You pause, exchanging nervous glances with Jalen.
Ji-Min: We have to work faster!
Sweat drips down your forehead as you dig faster, your imaginations running wild with the impending encounter with the Pirate Monkey.
Finally, after what feels like hours of excavation, you strike something hard. With a triumphant yell, you unearth... a buried action figure.
Holding up the toy Jalen laughs.
Jalen: Erm, mateys, I think we've found the Pirate Monkey's assistant.
Laughter erupts among the group, the tension of the adventure quickly fading away.
Jae-Min chuckles, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
Jae-Min: Well, at least now we have an assistant for our adventures!
You nod, a smile tugging at your lips.
Ji-Min: The Assistant Monkey shall join our crew on future escapades!
With newfound excitement, the group embarks on a series of hilarious adventures, the backyard becoming a battleground for epic battles and daring quests. But amidst the laughter and wild imaginations, the true treasure remains —the enduring friendship of Jae-Min, Jalen, and Koisuke, the ones who paint your world with joy and laughter.
As the sun sets on another day of childhood adventures, you know that there would be many more stories to come, each one filled with laughter, love, and the kind of friendship that can only be forged in the fires of hilarious escapades.
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Summer holiday at your parents’ mom
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In the midst of summer holiday, you and Jae-Min find yourselves on the way to your grandparents' house in Gochang County, North Jeolla Province, South Korea. You both are bursting with excitement at the prospect of spending quality time with them, and you both cannot wait to embark on new adventures.
As you arrive at their cozy home, the aroma of traditional Korean dishes greets you.
Joyfully, you all greet your grandmother, who you and Jae-Min lovingly call Halmeo, and your American grandfather, known as Popop.
Your grandparents envelop you both in warm hugs.
One afternoon, your grandmother decides it is time to teach you and Jae-Min the art of making kimchi, a cherished tradition passed down through generations.
With gentle patience and a twinkle in her eyes, she guides you both through the process, showing you how to wash and salt the cabbage and explaining why.
Halmeo: Now come with me, we'll get back to rinsing the cabbage in two hours.
You and Jae-Min follow your grandmother in the backyard.
She points at several pots.
Halmeo: These pots are onggi, we're going to bury them by leaving the top out.
Ji-Min and Jae-Min: okay!
And the three of you get to work.
With surprise in his voice, Jae-Min says.
Jae-Min: Look, there's my name on the onggi.
You look at the one in front of you.
Ji-Min: Oh, mine too.
Halmeo: Like that you'll know which are yours.
Ji-Min and Jae-Min: Oh!
After finishing burying all the pots you eat snacks and play.
A long moment passes before your grandmother claps her hands and says.
Halmeo: Back to the kimchi.
You head to the kitchen.
Halmeo: Now, boys, pay attention. The secret to delicious kimchi is in the perfect balance of flavors.
She shows how to mix the ingredients for the red pepper paste.
You all have your own bowl, and you both follow her instructions and taste test time to time until you're satisfied.
Halmeo: Now let's rinse the cabbage.
Once the cabbage is rinsed and ready, she takes charge once again. Her voice fills the room as she confidently states.
Halmeo: And now, this is how you put the paste on the cabbage and wrap them.
Basking in your grandmother's guidance, you and Jae-Min nod eagerly, your small hands meticulously coat each leaf with the spicy paste and delicately wrap each piece with love.
Halmeo: Good job, you both, I'm really proud of you.
You both smile proudly.
Jae-Min: Now we can eat them?
She chuckles.
Halmeo: No, you'll be able to start eating it in 1 month.
You and Jae-Min's eyes go wide.
Ji-Min: We have to wait all this time?!
Halmeo: It's more delicious when you wait.
Jae-Min stares at her, before finally saying.
Jae-Min: Ok, I trust you.
She snorts and shakes her head.
Halmeo: JALEN-AH, KOISUKE-YA, HONEY WE NEED A HAND.
The three of them enter the kitchen. She points at Koisuke and Jalen.
Halmeo: You and you take the kids bowls and follow me. Honey, take three fermentation weights. And you all head to the backyard.
Jalen puts the pink one in front of Ji-Min's pot.
Ji-Min: How do you know it's mine?
Jalen: Because I know it's one of your favorite colors.
Koisuke puts the blue one in front of Jae-Min's pot.
Koisuke: Like we know blue is one of Jae-Min.
Halmeo: Thank you for the help.
She turns to you and Jae-Min.
Halmeo: Now we're going to put the kimchi in it.
With curiosity in your voices, you ask.
Ji-Min: Halmeo, why do we have to bury the kimchi?
She chuckles warmly and replies.
Halmeo: Ah, my little ones, among other reasons, burying the kimchi allows it to ferment and develop a rich flavor. It's our tradition, passed down from generation to generation.
She shows how and with determined expressions, you and Jae-Min help her place the neatly prepared kimchi in the onggi, and she takes care of the closing.
A few days later, you all embark on a beach trip to Buan's Chaeseokgang Beach. You boys squeeze into the back seat, energy overflowing with anticipation.
Jalen: Alright, let's play 'Guess That Tune!' I'll hum a melody, and you must guess the song.95Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKSzuOreAHk
You and Jae-Min eagerly accept the challenge, giggling as you both try your best to decipher Jalen's humming. The car fills with laughter and cheerful melodies, turning the journey into a lively concert on wheels.
Jalen: So, boys, are you ready for some sandy adventures?
You both nod vigorously, eyes shining with excitement.
Ji-Min: Absolutely! Let's build the biggest sandcastle ever!
With the beach in sight, the rumble of the car and waves crashing in the distance, you and Jae-Min begin your game of imaginary superheroes.
Jae-Min: Ji-Min, I'm Captain Sando and you're Sandman! Let's save the sandcastle from the evil wave monster!
Laughter erupts from the group, fully embracing the game as the sandy fortress is valiantly defend from the relentless waves, the share imaginations leading to an incredible journey.
After a valiant battle, you all venture along the shoreline, collecting shells of all shapes and sizes. Your pockets bulging with bountiful finds.
Koisuke: Ji-Min, look at this beautiful seashell I found! It's like a treasure from the sea.
You admire Koisuke's treasure, your eyes twinkling with fascination.
Jalen: Ji-Min, Jae-Min, let's create a memory jar with all our shells and capture the magic of this day.
With all your collection of shells and memories, you return to your beach towels, laughter filling the air. But little did you know, adventure was about to take an unexpected turn.
As you play on the beach, you and Jae-Min's eyes widen in amazement. A pirate monkey stands before you, wearing a tiny eyepatch and an adventurous spirit.
Ji-Min: Oh wow, look at that! It's a monkey pirate!
With curiosity and giggles, you approach the mischievous monkey, who seems to be guarding a hidden treasure.
Jae-Min: Ji-Min, we should find its hidden treasure!
With a sprinkle of imagination and laughter, you embark on an unforgettable quest, following the monkey pirate's clues and braving imaginary obstacles along the way.
Ji-Min: Jalen, Koisuke, watch out for the quicksand! We must be careful!
Laughter echoes across the beach as you run, leap, and solve puzzles, all while embracing the whimsical chaos of the pirate adventure.
As you all work up an appetite you head back to your beach towels to eat.
Later on, as you play in the shallow water with Jae-Min you notice Jalen and Koisuke seeming to wander further out than the others.
You watch as the evening tide slowly creeps closer. Jalen and Koisuke are frolicking in the water up to their waists.
Jalen shouts.
Jalen: You call that wading? I'm going deeper!
He starts walking further out with Koisuke following behind.
Koisuke says warily.
Koisuke: Maybe we should start heading back soon, the tide is coming in fast!
And he gets closer to you. Tromping ahead without a care, Jalen replies.
Jalen: Don't be such a scaredy cat. I wanna go out more!
Koisuke mutters under his breath.
Koisuke: This one's gonna get me in trouble someday.
Just then, you hear Jalen shouts from far down the beach.
Jalen: Last one at the other end of the beach is a rotten egg!
And he takes off running.
But Koisuke has other ideas. With lightning speed, he lunges at Jalen from behind, wrapping his arms around his waist and hoisting him up.
Jalen: Yah! Let me down you oaf!
Jalen is pounding his fists on Koisuke's broad shoulders as he struggles in vain.
Koisuke just laughs, his booming laugh and starts running through the waves with Jalen held high.
Koisuke: WheeEEEE look at me fly!
Jalen is screeching at the top of his lungs.
Jalen: Put me down right now or so help me God Koisuke!
You and Jae-Min are in hysterics, doubling over on the beach as you watch the scene unfold. Koisuke continues to bounce Jalen up and down, paying no mind to his threats.
Jalen: I'm gonna murder you, you overgrown monkey! Put me down NOW!
Jalen pummel Koisuke's shoulders with weak fists.
By now the whole beach is in hysterics watching the spectacle. You and Jae-Min are doubled over howling.
Koisuke pays them no mind, too amused by Jalen's indignant screeching.
Koisuke: Aww what's wrong baby, don't like the ride?
Jalen: I will end you; I swear to God!
Jalen is beet red with embarrassment.
After being relentlessly jostled, Jalen finally loses it. With a war cry, he launches himself out of Koisuke's arms straight into the water. When he resurfaces, Jalen's attempt at a murderous glare only makes Koisuke laugh harder.
But now you could see the devious grin on his face that means Koisuke was in for it...
It is a beach day you all will remember for a long time!
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Birthday party
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August 2, 5006, the day of your sixth birthday is filled with excitement and joy.
Presents are exchanged, and laughter echoes through the house.
In the midst of the celebration, you inadvertently overhear a conversation between Koisuke and Jalen.
Koisuke: It's hard to believe our little guy is already six years old.
Jalen: I know, time really does fly. It feels like just yesterday he was a baby.
Koisuke: I remember the first time we took care of him, and now he's growing up so fast.
Jalen: He's such a special kid. I'm grateful every day that we get to be a part of his life.
Koisuke: His birthday always reminds me of the day he was born. It was the best day of our lives.
Jalen: Absolutely, the joy of holding him for the first time, seeing him open his eyes, and knowing we were going to take care of him from that moment on.
Koisuke: I still remember the discussions we had about his name, and how we both knew it had to be perfect for him.
Jalen: Yeah, we wanted something that felt just right, something that would be a part of him as he grew up.
Koisuke: It's amazing to think about how much he's grown and how much he means to us.
As you listen, they reminisce about the day you were born, recalling how it has been the best day of their lives. They lovingly speak of how they had taken care of you from your earliest moments. You even learn that they were the ones who chose your first name, wanting it to be just right for you.
The realization washes over you, and your heart swells with conflicting emotions. The warmth and love you feel from Koisuke and Jalen are not mere substitutes; they are your true parents. It wasn't your biological parents who had chosen your name or comforted you during sleepless nights. It was Koisuke and Jalen.
At that moment, you know where your allegiance lies. From that day forward, you stop considering Koisuke and Jalen as your second parents and start embracing them as your real ones.
Their unconditional love and unwavering dedication have always overshadowed any desire you might have had for your biological ‘parents'’ affection, but it is only today that you fully grasp this truth: that parents are not always those who conceive you, but those who love you unconditionally.
Together, you form a family built on love, trust, and the joy of being together.
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End of part 1
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