Seoul, 1st June 1950

"But mother, you really don't need to give me the change."

I protested as we exited the supermarket.

Even at the mere age of 8, I was already well aware of the financial crisis in Korea; we were lucky not to be poor, but in times of war, every coin counted. My parents however, always gladly waived any of their own desires just to fulfill mine; I had everything a girl could have wished for: Dresses, shoes, delicious treats, dolls… For this, I was more than just grateful; so I had long ago stopped asking for money for school books and school trips (as far my allowance would get me), secretly hoping that they would buy something for themselves – not just for the family.

"It's not for you to spend now, Youhee." Mother said, smiling gently.

I blinked at her curiously, surprised by her words.

"...this will contribute for your bridal shoes."

I nodded slowly and took the coins carefully from my mother’s hands.

My bridal shoes...

A fine blush crept to my cheeks as I started picturing my most treasured dream: A white gown, a pair of beautiful shoes and a finely netted veil - slowly being lifted…

…to look into the blurry face of the one I love most.

Suddenly, these few coins held a very deep meaning for me.

...the forewords wouldn´t sound as good if it weren´t for my fantastic,elastic (O_O) beta HARUMI95