“Seoul Academy of Performing Arts? It’s supposed to be one of the most prestigious and exclusive performing art school in Asia, isn’t it?” Claire exclaimed, her eyes widening.  “I heard that the ballet program there is amazing—although a little rigorous.” Her brows furrowed a little. 

Ara nodded gloomily. “I can already feel the stress and I’m tons of miles away from that place. You know how the Korean system works—they’re going to push me so hard until my bones are grounded into fine powder or something.”

“Aww, come on, it can’t be that horrible. Think of it this way, it’s a great opportunity for you to… improve and develop your skills. Let’s just hope you’re alive by the end of the year.” Sasha grinned, nudging her. “But who knows? You may be the next great ballet dancer of the 21^st century.”

“It’s not funny! I don’t know how I’m going to survive.” She scowled. “I’d much rather stay here with you guys.”

“I know you don’t want to go, but you have no choice. You might as well as think positively about it. We’ll still keep in touch, right? And see each other during holidays and everything.” Claire patted her shoulder, as Sasha nodded knowingly.

Ara sighed. She knew her friends were right. It was a made decision and she was going to have to move, full stop. But leaving was hard. Even though she was Korean by ethnicity and had even lived there until she was 6, San Francisco was her real home, where she belonged. To leave all of that aside and move to a whole different place, it was a pretty big deal for her. She couldn’t help but resent her father a little bit, even though she knew fully well it wasn’t his fault. After all, it was a promotion, and she should be happy for him. Plus, mum was beyond excited to move back, where all her friends and family were. 

‘I guess I could be mature about it and it up, for my parents.’ She thought as she took a deep breath, got into a cab where her parents were waiting, and headed for the airport.