Quantum Entanglement Love (Series 1)

Back to South Korea. Year 2014.

Minjin paused mid-step, her attention drawn to a sight just a few meters away. She could hear a younger boy's faint, pleading voice. His words were trembling with emotion, almost on the verge of tears, as he held his bag tightly. Four boys in school uniforms surrounded him, effectively blocking his path.

The largest among them, clearly their leader, leaned in closer, his expression tainted by a sneer. "Come on, just hand it over," he urged, pulling at the strap of the boy's bag with a menacing grip.

The little boy vigorously shook his head, gripping even tighter. "Please, no," he pleaded, his voice almost inaudible.

Minjin narrowed her eyes and, without hesitation, altered her course. "Ya!" she shouted, her voice ringing strong and clear.

The boys faced her together, expressions revealing a blend of surprise and annoyance.

The leader, tugging on their bag, Heo Yeong-hwan, stepped forward, narrowing his eyes at the disruption. "What do you want?" Heo Yeong-hwan sneered, attempting to appear intimidating. "Mind your own business."

Minjin held his gaze steadily. "This is my business. Let him go."

Heo Yeong-hwan laughed mockingly, clearly entertained. "Who do you think you are?" he asked, moving closer to Minjin as if to pacify her.

Yet Minjin remained steadfast. She stepped forward again, bridging the gap between them. Reaching for the small boy's hand, she gently pulled him toward her, maintaining unbroken eye contact with Heo Yeong-hwan.

"Release it," she ordered once more, her tone calm. Heo Yeong-hwan's smirk faded, and he gripped the boy's bag more firmly.

"Why not try to make me?" he retorted, his voice laced with annoyance.

Minjin acted quickly and accurately. She lifted her knee and aimed a kick at Heo Yeong-hwan's face, forcing him to let go of the smaller boy. Minjin turned her back to him, but Heo Jeong-hwan charged at her from behind. His kick hit Minjin's back, making her stagger momentarily, but she quickly steadied herself.

She turned with a smirk, her gaze narrowing at Heo Yeong-hwan. She assumed a fighting stance, prepared for what was next.

Heo Yeong-hwan aimed a kick at Minjin's chest, but she was ready! With a swift, controlled kick, she gracefully deflected his attack. Without missing a beat, Minjin stepped in closer and landed a firm strike to Heo Yeong-hwan's chest with her palm, sending him stumbling backward. His expression changed to surprise and frustration as he struggled to regain balance.

Noticing their leader in a bind, the other two boys quickly raced toward Minjin, hoping to get the upper hand. However, Minjin was ready for them! With a quick spin, she faced her challengers and, with a lightning-fast jab, sent one boy stumbling into the other, both toppling over.

"In Taekwondo," Minjin asserted, cutting through the noise, "we reject bullying and intimidation. It's about discipline, respect, and control. You've missed the point."

The two boys stumbled in, looking stunned. They exchanged hesitant glances, realizing they were in over their heads.

Heo Yeong-hwan, clearly shaken, glared at Minjin. "You think you're tough?" he snapped, frustrated.

Minjin shrugged, staying calm. "I'm not here to fight for fun. I'm standing up for what's right. Leave before things escalate."

With a sigh, Heo Yeong-hwan and his two friends walked away, feeling hurt. They couldn't help but shoot Minjin one last look, then continued down the sidewalk, ready to move on.

Minjin took a slow breath. She faced the younger boy, who had been observing the situation with wide eyes. "Are you alright?" she asked softly.

The boy nodded, appearing both relieved and amazed. "Thank you so much, noona."

Minjin offered a reassuring smile. "Just be cautious around here."

The boy nodded again, his face softening in gratitude. "I will. Thanks once more, noona."

Minjin inhaled deeply as he walked away, feeling relieved.