“We are teachers, we are the model of the students. How will you make them follow you when you have that dirt?” The head teacher raised an eyebrow to her, challenging her.

“I told you Ma’am, I’m not going to erase this tattoo. It’s a sign of my success.” She pointed the tattoo at the back of her ear.

“It’s not a sign of success Ms. Lee. It’s disrespecting your body and students won’t respect you when have that on your body. I’m advising you to remove that as soon as possible. The school will pay for the expenses.” The headmaster looked intently at her, scrutinizing her expression which remained unmoved.

“What can I do for you to stop bugging me with all of these nagging?” She raised her voice, not minding if she’s talking to a person who has more authority than her.

“Do you promise you’ll do everything, Ms. Lee?” She asked her again, confirming if she’s really serious.

“Anything. As long as it doesn’t involve me erasing my tattoo.” She answered without thinking of what the consequence may be.

The head teacher smiled at her, which shocked her because it was the first time she smiled at her since she started working as a high school teacher in YG High School. She has been told that Mrs. Choi is really strict and there are tales that she has gone crazy because nobody has seen her smile for years. And Mrs. Choi’s look gave her goose bumps all over her body. Mrs. Choi started examining some files, leaving her anxious that she felt like throwing up.

“Hmmm. Lee Chaerin, you’re too young, 25. But that would be fine, we need someone who can do physical activities for the boys.” Mrs. Choi nodded her head in glee. “And I heard that you’re really hard-working so I can guarantee that this would be an easy job for you.”

“As long as it concerns teaching the kids I really don’t mind, Ma’am.” She assured. “I’m always happy to serve and to teach children here in Korea.”

“Not children, Ms. Lee. But you will teach.” The answer made Chaerin chuckle.

“I’m sorry, I know I’m teaching teenagers.” She bowed her head.

“Some are teenagers but most are I don’t really know. I’m sending you to teach on the extension of this school. You will teach students there how to be responsible so they can finally graduate from high school.”Mrs. Choi explained to Chaerin.

“But…” Chaerin was about to say something but decided not to.

“If you won’t agree to this Ms. Lee, you would ask an appointment right at this moment so you can erase that dirt on your ear or you will need another job because it was stated on the school policy that a tattoo is inappropriate for a teacher to have.” Mrs. Choi firmly said.

Chaerin contemplated whether to say no or yes, it’s so hard to find a job and her mother would not like the fact that she gave up running their business to be a teacher who just got a job and would be fired. And besides, it’s a new challenge for her.

“Fine…” She inhaled deeply. “Just give me a week to pack my things.”

“Very good, Ms. Lee.” Mrs. Choi clasped her hands in glee. “You’ll meet your co-workers there and I assure you that they are friendly and smart. If the students’ performance would be great up to the end of this school year, you’re position would be higher and your salary will increase.”

“Wow,” Chaerin said and smiled at her. “I will try my best. I should get going.” She bid her goodbye and went outside the room.