A week later, the academy announced that Delacroix had resigned and would be leaving immediately. A new professor, a beta named Ms. Kim, was introduced as her replacement. I was elated and decided to spend an entire day with Jiyeon. After all, it was going to be my last day in France before I had to return home to continue my work.
The morning air was crisp and filled with the scent of freshly baked bread as Jiyeon and I strolled hand in hand to a quaint café near the academy. We found a cozy corner, and as the waiter brought our croissants and cappuccinos, I couldn't help but notice how radiant Jiyeon looked. Her smile lit up the room, and her laughter was infectious.
"Do you think you'll miss France?" Jiyeon asked, her eyes twinkling with curiosity as she sipped her coffee.
"I'll miss being here with you," I replied honestly, reaching out to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear. "But I have to go back. There's so much I need to take care of."
Jiyeon nodded, her expression thoughtful. "I know. I'm just glad we had this time together."
After breakfast, we wandered through the streets of Paris, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling city. We visited the Louvre, marveling at the art and history contained within its walls. Jiyeon's eyes sparkled with excitement as we explored the museum, her enthusiasm contagious. She explained the history behind various pieces, her knowledge and passion for art shining through.
We spent the afternoon in Montmartre, climbing the steps to the Sacré-Cœur and taking in the breathtaking view of the city below. As we stood there, looking out over the rooftops of Paris, I felt a deep sense of contentment. Despite the challenges we had faced, we were together, and that was all that mattered.
For dinner, I had reserved a table at a charming little bistro known for its exquisite cuisine. The evening was perfect—the food, the wine, and the ambiance all combining to create a memorable experience. Jiyeon looked stunning in the candlelight, her eyes shining with happiness.
"This is delicious," Jiyeon said, savoring a bite of her meal. "I'll have to try recreating some of these dishes when I get back to Korea."
"I can't wait to be your taste tester," I teased, raising my glass to her. "To many more meals together."
After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll along the Seine, the Eiffel Tower glowing in the distance. The city was magical at night, and the romance of Paris seemed to wrap around us like a warm embrace. We stopped on a bridge, the water below reflecting the city lights, and Jiyeon turned to me with a soft smile.
"Yura, this has been the most amazing day. I don't want it to end."
She nodded, tears streaming down her cheeks. "I love you, Yura. More than anything."
"I love you too," I replied, kissing her deeply, as if to imprint the memory of her on my soul. "I'll see you soon."
As I boarded the plane, I turned to see Jiyeon standing there, her figure growing smaller and smaller until she was just a memory etched in my heart. The flight back to Korea felt longer than ever, filled with a mix of anticipation and sorrow.
Back home, I threw myself into my work, using it as a distraction from the ache of missing Jiyeon. But every night, we talked on the phone, sharing our days . It wasn't the same as being together, but it was enough to keep us connected.
Jiyeon's last week in France passed quickly. She continued to immerse herself in her culinary studies, making the most of her time at the academy. We talked every day, our conversations filled with love and longing.
Finally, the day came when Jiyeon was to return to Korea. I couldn't wait to see her, to hold her in my arms again. I went to the airport, my heart pounding with excitement and relief.
As the passengers began to disembark, I searched the crowd for Jiyeon. When I saw her, our eyes met, and she broke into a run, throwing herself into my arms.
"Yura!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with joy.
"Jiyeon," I murmured, holding her tight. "I missed you so much."
We stood there, holding each other, oblivious to the bustling airport around us. Finally, we pulled back, our eyes meeting with a mixture of happiness and relief.
"Let's go home," I said, taking her hand. "We have so much to catch up on."
As we drove back, the city lights passing by, I felt a deep sense of contentment.