Dahyun sighed as she watched her friends chatter away at the camping table. She had wanted this trip to be the cleansing experience that took her away from her mundane life. That was why she had suggested the group of friends go on a camping trip over New Years to get away from their families and make resolutions for a fresh start.

As Dahyun watched them share stories of their lives back home, she felt her mind slowly drifting away. All of them had changed. They were more confident and could express their thoughts without fear. But Dahyun still felt awkward and uncomfortable around them.

She had wanted to change, but nothing had changed. As the group of friends continued to laugh and gossip, Dahyun silently slipped away without anyone noticing. The night sky lit up her path towards the campsite. She needed to get away and be alone but it was too late. The cold December air felt like it was seeping into her skin.

Dahyun stopped and looked up at the starry sky. She had come to the forest to reset and start over, but it seemed like nothing had changed. She could still feel the same old Dahyun underneath her skin.

With a deep breath, she reminded herself that it was okay. Change happens in its own time, she told herself, and she had to be patient. She would keep working on changing her own life and eventually, she would come out of her shell.

And after all, she thought, she could always come back to the forest again. Its home. This was where she belonged