Prologue

Dear Lisa,

I'm really sorry that I don't even have the confidence to tell you face to face. I don't think I would have the guts to. First off, you've always encouraged me to follow my dreams and I thank you for that. "You can't accomplish your dream if you don't try to, Doyoon-ah," you'd always say. So, I have done exactly that. I am trying to follow my dreams. 

By the time you read this, I would already be on the plane with my suitcase and bag. Please don't try and find me. You'll make saying goodbye harder. But don't worry, my parents know where I am. But I have also made them promise not to open the door if you come knocking. I know how easy it is for them to be convinced and I also know how you can be persuasive. I'm sorry, Lisa. I really am.

Please don't be mad.

We'll see each other again. I promise.

Yours truly, Doyoon.

Doyoon…was gone? I raced outside, running down the block to Doyoon's house. Surely this was a mistake. A joke. He was playing a joke on me. He always did pranks all the time. I don't see why he wouldn't now.

I throw myself against the door, knocking loudly, not caring who heard or saw. "Mrs. Jang! Mr. Jang! Open up, it's me! Lisa!" I'm on the verge of tears. No. Not like this. "Mrs. Jang! Mr. Jang! Please."

There's no answer.

I haven't heard from him since. It's been three years. Not one letter. Not one phone call. Not even a text.