Chapter 40

Everyone had returned to their respective homes. As Lucy entered her house, she saw her father finishing seasoning the meat in the oven, something he insisted on doing himself. She waited for him to place the dish in the oven before sharing the news with him.

"What's up, kiddo?" her father asked, still facing away. "What do you want to tell me?"

"Dad, the exam grades are out!" She was trying to contain her excitement, but it was evident on her face.

"Was it today?" Her father finally turned around and saw his daughter nodding eagerly. "And?"

"I passed, Dad!" she exclaimed, and his smile lit up.

Jungso dropped the cloth he was holding and rushed towards her. He embraced her tightly, squeezing her in a hug that made her laugh when she heard a bone crack.

"Oh, sorry," he let go of her, looking at her and checking if anything was out of place.

"I'm fine, Dad.&qu